Quincy University recently received a $25,000 grant from the Marion Gardner Jackson Charitable Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee. This grant will help support the renovation and enhancement of the Franciscan Institute of Environmental Studies. The funds will be used to renovate and upgrade an environmental science lab and interdisciplinary classroom. The environmental science lab is used for eight field classes, including ecology – a required course for all science students. The renovated interdisciplinary classroom will be used to support the growing science program, which has nearly tripled its enrollment since 2011.

The focus of renovation and enhancement of the Franciscan Institute of Environmental Studies (FIES) is to increase learning in the field and classroom setting. The FIES helps QU meet the needs of the surrounding region for high-quality STEM graduates by providing the Environmental Science coursework and hands-on field opportunities for students. The STEM curriculum at QU is designed to utilize best practices for undergraduate STEM education including inquiry-based laboratory and field exercises

The Marion Gardner Jackson Charitable Trust was established by Marion Gardner Jackson, the granddaughter of local industrialist, Robert W. Gardner, founder of the Gardner-Denver Company. Before her death in 1976, Mrs. Jackson set up a perpetual trust to aid religious, charitable, scientific, literary and educational organizations. Preference is given to organizations in Quincy, Illinois and surrounding communities in Adams County.

Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University (www.quincy.edu) is a Catholic, co-educational, residential university offering undergraduate, graduate, and adult education programs that integrate liberal arts, active learning, practical experience, and Franciscan values. Quincy University’s intercollegiate sports are members of the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Valley Conference for men and women. For more information, please contact the Quincy University Office of Community Relations by calling
(217) 228-5275.