North Columbus News

Faculty, staff, and students from The Ohio State University, along with distinguished guests and Amgen representatives, gathered to celebrate the opening of the Amgen STEM Learning Center at Ramseyer Hall. This new facility is designed as a collaborative space featuring a peer-led tutoring center for first- and second-year students in gateway STEM courses.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 2 marked the completion of the first phase of renovations at Ramseyer Hall. The learning center was made possible by a $2 million investment supporting Ohio State’s colleges of Arts and Sciences and Engineering. This initiative is part of a partnership between Ohio State and Amgen, a biotechnology company expanding its presence in central Ohio. The investment aims to support workforce development in STEM fields while building a talent pipeline for Ohio.

Sandra Rodriguez-Toledo, vice president of site operations for Amgen Ohio, stated: “Amgen is proud to support The Ohio State University’s STEM Learning Center, which will play a crucial role in strengthening the educational foundations of students enrolled in gateway STEM courses. This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering innovation and diversity in the STEM fields, and we are excited to see the positive impact it will have on the students and the broader community.”

Nearly 100 guests attended the event, including Mike Duffey, chancellor of the Ohio Department of Higher Education. Peter Mohler, executive vice president for research, innovation, and knowledge at Ohio State commented on the partnership: “The continued strengthening of Amgen’s relationship with Ohio State is inspiring. Through interdisciplinary research and education, we are bringing together our collective knowledge and expertise to invest in the futures of our bright students and the biomanufacturing sector.”

David Horn, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences added: “We are grateful for Amgen’s support. Together we will transform teaching in STEM disciplines and create new learning and engagement opportunities for students.” He emphasized that this collaboration would help create a diverse workforce ready to tackle future challenges.

Susan Olesik, dean of natural and mathematical sciences who led efforts to establish the center said: “This center will help our students not only succeed but prosper. We thank Amgen for their support and continued collaboration.” She highlighted plans to work alongside Amgen toward advancing STEM innovation in Ohio.