SCUP 2021 North Central Regional Conference: Regionalism, Ecology, and Field Based Learning in the Ozark Mountains
BNIM Associate Principal, Josh Harrold, Professor and Director of Bull Shoals Field Station at Missouri State University, Dr. Janice Greene, and University Architect and Director of Planning, Design and Construction at Missouri State University, Mark Wheeler will present at this year’s SCUP 2021 North Central Regional Conference: Impactful Partnerships on October 25 – 27, in Milwaukee, WI. The educational session entitled Regionalism, Ecology, and Field Based Learning in the Ozark Mountains will explore the design and impact of BNIM’s recent project, the Missouri State University (MSU) Ozarks Education Center while addressing topics including regionalism advocacy; celebration of natural regional ecology; navigation of donor relations, project teams, and site challenges; and educational and community partnerships formed through active field-based learning.
Immersed in the Ozark mountains, the MSU Ozarks Education Center is designed to serve as a gateway for learning and observation of the surrounding state conservation areas and ecological resources. The educational facility provides one central location to accommodate larger groups of students and researchers to take part in ecology research and education through a unique experiential lens. Providing sleeping quarters, a dining center, residential kitchen, classroom space, and room for programs, the Ozarks Education Center helps support the pursuit of education and research for MSU faculty and students, other universities, high school students, and non-profit organizations. A focal point of connection is the facility’s dogtrot which serves as a point of entry for the main building and a threshold for visitors to begin a day of ecological study at the MSU Ozarks Education Center. The dogtrot is among the unique design features of the Ozarks Education Center that emphasize a multi-sensory experience, connecting visitors to the natural elements, such as light, air, and water.
The educational session Regionalism, Ecology, and Field Based Learning in the Ozark Mountains will take place on Wednesday, October 27 from 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
