Iowa Valley Grinnell Learning Studio Addition

Iowa Valley Community College District celebrated its third ribbon cutting of the year on Nov. 5, 2008, at the Iowa Valley Grinnell center at 123 6th Ave. W. in Grinnell.

“What you see before you is the reality of our vision for engaging college students in their academic experience,” said Robin Shaffer Lilienthal, Vice Provost. “The six new learning studios are designed to create opportunities for students to learn in an environment that complements the ‘real world of work’ including teamwork, access to resources through technology, and a flexible learning space that encourages dialogue, problem solving, and critical thinking.”

Garling Construction began work in October 2007 on the $2.5 million, 11,000 square foot expansion of the Iowa Valley Grinnell campus. The addition is located behind (to the north) of the existing facility. It includes six new learning studios, as well as significant improvements to the existing facility (new roof, parking lot lighting, improved HVAC, and repairing floors).

Since opening in January 2002, the original 27,000-square-foot facility has seen significant enrollment growth. According to Lilienthal, the Grinnell campus expansion will better serve current students, as well as attracting prospective new students. It’s hoped that the expansion will open up scheduling in the existing building to enable Iowa Valley Grinnell to offer additional career-technical degree programs in the Poweshiek County area and increase opportunities for business and industry training.

This is a view of the new Learning Studios addition from the back of the campus. It's beautiful at night!
Our new learning studios feature state-of-the-art technology, including wireless access for your laptop.
Students enjoy working on group projects in the soundproof glass meeting rooms.	Cafe-style seating is comfortable and convenient in one of the many campus study areas.
View of study areas from the balcony, looking down.	It doesn't have to be "all work" at Iowa Valley Grinnell.
Even the lighting fixtures in the new addition seem to say, "Welcome ... come on in!"	Vast whiteboards and high-tech equipment are standard in the new Grinnell learning studios.
The atrium and center court in the new addition features cafe tables, modern lighting, and wireless computer access.	The new loft features comfortable seating, table space, and a fireplace that contributes to the home-like atmosphere.
Windows are key in the addition design, filling classrooms and study areas with lots of natural light.	The new loft area, accessible by steps and a lift, is a popular study place for Grinnell students.
Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in October 2007.	Site excavation was delayed by all the wet weather in 2007.

For more information about the programs and facilities available at Iowa Valley Grinnell, contact Robin Shaffer Lilienthal, Vice Provost, by phoning (641) 269-2202 or emailing Robin.Lilienthal@iavalley.edu.