Butte College Unveils New $73M Science Building

A New Era for Science Education at Butte College

During the grand opening of the new Science Building at Butte College in Butte Valley, California, many attendees found themselves unexpectedly drawn into the cadaver room. As biology professor Jill Terra began revealing the donated body of an 83-year-old woman, she warned, “All of her skin is removed.” This moment marked a significant shift in the way students would engage with anatomy education at the institution.

The new $73 million Science Building is a major expansion for Butte College’s science departments. The facility was officially unveiled on Friday, August 15, 2025, and brought together over 100 attendees who witnessed the college's commitment to advancing scientific learning. President Virginia Guleff expressed excitement about what the building would bring: more classes, reduced waitlists, and enhanced learning experiences for students.

The building features a range of advanced facilities, including two stories, 21 specialized labs, and two classrooms dedicated to chemistry, biology, anatomy, physics, and geology. It also includes a dedicated cadaver room, student and faculty working spaces, 38 faculty offices, and a 2,400-square-foot planetarium. Kim Jones, director of facilities, emphasized that the project has been in the planning stages since 2010.

Previously, the college could only offer the cadaver class once a year with one body. Now, with more space, professor Jill Terra will teach the class twice a year, using two cadavers—one dissected for reference and one fresh for hands-on experience. This change allows students to study both male and female anatomies, providing a more comprehensive understanding of human anatomy.

Anatomy professor Julie Jenks highlighted the department’s increased capacity to teach, calling it critical for students who plan to enter healthcare fields. The expansion is expected to significantly impact the number of students enrolled in science-related programs.

According to Christian Gutierrez, the college’s public relations officer, there are currently 1,200 STEM majors out of a total student population of 14,000. While the building is primarily focused on science, non-STEM majors will also take general education courses there. Approximately 2,500 students are expected to attend classes in the new building this fall, with seven new science faculty members being hired.

Funding for the Science Building came entirely from Measure J, a $190 million bond passed in 2016 to improve facilities in the Butte-Glenn Community College District.

Innovative Teaching Spaces

Chemistry professor Danielle Gray explained that the new classrooms are designed for a "studio style" approach. Unlike traditional models where lectures and labs are separated, professors can now combine both elements in one session. This integration allows for longer, more focused time with students, enhancing their learning experience.

The planetarium, led by astronomy professor Jason Trento, offers a unique opportunity for students to explore the cosmos. During the grand opening, Trento demonstrated how the planetarium can transport students through the solar system, offering a view of the stars as ancient humans once saw them.

Oroville Mayor David Pittman reflected on the growth of Butte College, recalling his time as a student in the 1970s when the campus consisted of just a few portable classrooms in Durham. He praised the progress made, stating, “It’s come a long way.”

With its state-of-the-art facilities and expanded offerings, the new Science Building at Butte College is set to transform the educational experience for students across disciplines.