Groundbreaking ceremony or FVSU Science building. A fence surrounds the site where construction workers maneuver backhoes and tractors, moving red clay to make way for a $20 million science building at Fort Valley State University. The work began a month ago, but Wednesday's groundbreaking ceremony marked the official start of a project two decades in the making. An artist's rendering surrounded by a cascade of blue and gold balloons helped the crowd of science students, faculty, administrators, staff and Middle Georgia lawmakers envision how the facility will look next year. "I am so happy about this building; I can't express how happy I am," said Dr. Melinda Davis, head of FVSU's Biology department. "The Miller Science Building has been a home away from home, but we've worn it out. Our mantra is to hold on one more year."

Host of the ceremony, FVSU's Executive Vice President and Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Daniel K. Wims, introduced President Larry E. Rivers. "Our university needs this new building because our campus is growing by leaps and bounds. We have an historic enrollment this year - the largest in our history. Last year, our university grew by 17 percent; this year, we have a 20 percent increase." Rivers' enrollment goal is 5,000 students. Mayor John Stumbo pledged ongoing support of the university's future projects. State Sen. George Hooks promised to push for state budget allocations on behalf of FVSU.

"At the appropriations committee, I will make sure that FVSU is at the table," said State Rep. Lynmore James. "What we're doing here is for the future of the state and the world, so I have no shame for doing what's best for FVSU." James vowed to assist the university in its effort to develop a school of veterinary medicine. The state-of-the-art 59,000-square-foot SMART classroom facility will be packed with amenities.