Artist's rendering of the new Ray Morris Hall, future home of the Millard Oakley Center for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

President Bell invites all TTU faculty, staff and students to attend the groundbreaking for Ray Morris Hall, future home of the Millard Oakley Center for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, beginning at 3 p.m. today at the corner of Seventh Avenue and Stadium Drive.

Congressman Bart Gordon, Congressman Lincoln Davis and many others will participate in the program to thank Ray Morris and Millard Oakley for their support of the facility. The Capshaw Elementary School Chorus will perform.

The center will grow, improve and launch efforts to enhance the way teachers and professors — from preschool through college — teach science, technology, engineering and math-related subjects.

The 26,000 square-foot building, estimated to cost about $8 million, will feature an expansive lobby/multipurpose area with seating, restrooms and catering facilities. It also will feature interactive displays, digital signage to showcase research, student projects and visiting exhibits.

The center will offer a 250-seat tiered auditorium equipped for science and multi-media demonstrations. Learning studio laboratories will focus on biology and chemistry, earth and space sciences, physics and engineering, mathematics, early childhood and outdoor learning.