UNIVERSITY NEWS - FEBRUARY 2004

MEDIA CONTACT: Aileen Izquierdo,
izquierd@fau.edu , 561-297-2442

FAU Breaks Ground On Scripps Temporary Facility

BOCA RATON, FL (February 27, 2004) -- Florida Atlantic University President Frank T. Brogan, along with business, research and governmental leaders, kicked off a new era in scientific research in Florida today when they broke ground on the FAU/Scripps Joint Use Facility on FAU's MacArthur Campus. The, 40,000 square foot building will serve as the temporary facilities of The Scripps Research Institute's Florida operations until the permanent site is completed next year.

"This is a momentous day for Florida and for Florida Atlantic University," said FAU President Brogan. "In this joint use structure, some of the world's brightest scientific minds will engage in cutting edge research that has the potential to help cure diseases and improve the quality of life for many. Florida Atlantic University is proud to work closely with Scripps now and in the future."

The groundbreaking was preceded by a ceremony that featured participants from Palm Beach County, Scripps and local and state government, including FAU Vice President Kristen Murtaugh, FAU President Brogan, FAU Board of Trustees Chair George C. Zoley, Palm Beach County Commission Chair Karen Marcus, Scripps Executive Vice President and General Counsel Doug Bingham, Scripps Professor of Cell Biology Dr. Steve Kay and Florida Governor Jeb Bush.
The new building is expected to be completed by the end of 2004. Centex Rooney Construction Co., located in Plantation, will oversee construction of the $12 million building and the architect will be Schwab, Twitty & Hanser Architects of West Palm Beach.
-FAU-