Special Programs Building
Site: East side of campus, near River Road entrance
Completed: 1963
Architect: Carneal and Johnston
Size: 22,000 square feet
In early 1963 the Virginia Institute for Scientific Research moved to the University of Richmond campus from the Robinson House on the grounds of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The VISR moved into a building on campus at 6300 River Road which it leased from the University. The building was named the Allen T. Gwathney Laboratory of the Virginia Institute for Scientific Research in honor of the founder of the VISR. In October 1963, the University organized a symposium to highlight the occasion. Dr. Carroll M Williams a Harvard University biologist and alumnus of the University of Richmond gave a talk on research he was conducting on the potential use of light for insect pest control.
The VISR and Richmond collaborated on research projects. An Environmental Research Center, staffed by both the University and VISR, was established in 1971. The VISR conducted research in the natural sciences under industrial and federal contracts. In November 1972 there was an explosion and fire in a laboratory in the building. This incident destroyed equipment, samples, and notes and set back research. Dr. Gillespie, director of the institute, estimated the cost of the loss at between $50,000 and $60,000.
In 1975 the University took over the loan on the Gwathney Building and assumed operation of it. The University agreed to allow the VISR remain for a period of time. The VISR offices were moved to North Court. The print shop, Summer School, and Graduate School operations moved to the first floor of the building. There was one classroom, the science library, psychology labs, an animal facility, and some unfinished space on the second floor.
Today the Special Programs Building houses the campus police organization, the Student Health Center and the School of Continuing Studies.
Sources:
UR website
VBHS building file
Collegian 1963 - 2000