Food Digest : 2014

Abstract

Message from the Department Head: Greetings. December 10, 2013, is a date that should be recorded as part of the Food Science and Technology history. On this date we received a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy for the Human and Agricultural Biosciences Building 1 (HABB1). Almost exactly two years after breaking ground, we have moved into the new 93,860-square-foot building with research and office space for the Food Science and Technology and Biological Systems Engineering Departments. Moving our professional belongings is much like what we have all experienced in moving our personal possessions. It is a time of sorting and evaluation. While most of the department is enjoying beautiful new offices, some of us will remain in our current (FST) building that we still cherish, but the signs of its age are apparent. We will retain the administrative offices and the advising offices. Faculty and staff whose duties are primarily teaching or Extension will remain in FST. Some graduate students also will remain in the FST building, so the path between our two buildings is quickly becoming familiar. We are planning how to best use the space that we now have in FST. Lots of changes are still ahead for the FST department in 2014. We continue to grow as a department, with new faculty, staff, and increasing undergraduate enrollment. Our undergraduate program now has more than 150 majors. At the first Food Science Club meeting this year we had over 80 students in attendance. HABB1 is a beautiful building, and the department is delighted to finally be in a building made of Hokie Stone. The office areas and atrium inside HABB1 also have Hokie Stone. One Board of Visitors member commented that he believed the inside of HABB1 was the most attractive part of the building. I invite you to come and judge for yourself. We would love to show you the new building. Best personal regards, Joe Marcy.