Florida Construction News staff writer
The University of Tampa has broken ground on the Dickey Science Innovation Center, a five-storey, 153,000-square-foot facility that university officials say will be one of the most significant academic additions in its 94-year history.
Set for completion in Fall 2028, the new science centre will sit along the Hillsborough River on the downtown campus and is designed to expand teaching, research and interdisciplinary collaboration across multiple science programs.
The facility will house the departments of biology and chemistry and biochemistry, along with programs in forensic science, marine science and other science-driven fields tied to workforce demand. It will also support allied health and environmental science education.
“This is a great day for the University of Tampa,” said Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, a UTampa alumna, speaking to students, faculty, staff, trustees, donors and local officials at the groundbreaking ceremony. She said the new centre will help the university attract top students who can contribute to the city’s continued growth.
Located on the campus of the University of Tampa, the building is being positioned as a hub for advanced scientific learning and research.
University President Teresa Abi-Nader Dahlberg described the project as a “centerpiece and catalyst” for the institution’s expanding role in science education and discovery. She noted the complexity of designing modern research facilities capable of housing specialized equipment and living organisms, including aquariums and labs for species such as zebra fish, sea horses, algae, sea slugs, crabs and cell cultures.
Construction is being supported by a major philanthropic contribution from the family of Dr. Stephen F. and Marsha Dickey, in what Marsha Dickey called a “family generational gift.” The Dickeys, longtime university supporters and namesakes of the Dickey Health Center, attended the ceremony alongside children and grandchildren.
“We felt this was the perfect opportunity to continue our support,” Marsha Dickey said, adding that the university is well positioned for continued growth under its current leadership.
Dr. Dickey also expressed confidence in the institution’s direction, saying he believes it will “continue to grow and thrive.”
Scott Gossen, assistant vice president of design, construction and facilities, said the university engaged faculty, students, donors and other stakeholders throughout the planning process to ensure the building meets both academic and research needs. He said the goal is to deliver “a building that is worthy of having your name on it.”
