DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — On Friday, Richland Community College and Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce cut the ribbon on the college's new Michael D. Andreas Agriculture Building.
RCC broke ground on the Agriculture Building in the spring of 2022 as part of a goal to enhance student learning spaces. Jess Smithers, Director of Agricultural Programs, said the agriculture program re-launched at the college 5 years ago. Since its re-launch, Smithers said the program has grown.
He believes the new building will help it grow further.
"It will attract more students to Richland to fully see the opportunities here at Richland Community College and the opportunities in agriculture."
The construction of the new building was funded through a $3 million investment along with a $1 million private gift.
"For these students who have a passion for agriculture, it will change their life and it will truly make an impact," said Julie Lamb, Decatur Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The building is equipped with technology-advanced classrooms, lab space, and a greenhouse.
As part of their donation to the building, the Andreas family also contributed to a scholarship fund that will focus on students who are committed to agriculture and FFA.
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