UMass Dartmouth School for Marine Science and Technology records

Administrative Note: In 1965 SMTI initiated a marine science effort. For many years, both Biology and Electrical Engineering had strong marine science interests. In more recent years, Chemistry and Economics increased their participation in this field, and later, Physics. As early as 1975 discussions were held about the possible construction of a marine science laboratory. In 1988 Governor Dukakis established SMU as the Center of Excellence for Marine Science for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In the same year he signed a Capital bill authorizing $10 for the construction of a marine science laboratory. Unfortunately no money was appropriated for the Bill. In 1989 the Center for Marine Science and Technology was approved by the SMU Board. In 1993 the University was able to obtain UMass Trustee approval of the Marine Science Laboratory as a strategic priority, and the Weld administration appropriated the dollars from an already approved bond bill. Groundbreaking for the laboratory took place in November of 1995. The building, located on the New Bedford waterfront, was dedicated October 6, 1997. The Center for Marine Science achieved academic status as the new School of Marine Science and Technology on March 23, 2000, with the ability to appoint faculty, develop curriculum and offer courses.