Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences - 2nd & 3rd Floor Expansion & Renovation

The Stokes School of Marine and Environmental Sciences recently completed a transformative renovation and expansion of the second and third floors of the Education and Outreach Building, marking a significant step in the University of South Alabama’s continued investment in coastal education and research. This $3.2M project modernized more than 20,000 SF of academic and research space, replacing outdated interiors with a refreshed, maritime-inspired design and state-of-the-art facilities.

The renovation introduced new teaching laboratories equipped with clean environments for sensitive analytical equipment, spacious workstations, and dedicated lab support zones. Faculty offices were redesigned to maximize natural light and offer scenic views of the adjacent Glenn Sebastian Nature Trail, creating a more inspiring workspace for both faculty and students.

To support the growing student body, the design also includes expanded student-focused spaces such as conference rooms, break areas, a lounge, and larger meeting rooms tailored for student-led organizations. A new 120-seat auditorium, outfitted with advanced video and presentation technology, supports lectures, guest speakers, and public engagement events.

This expansion plays a critical role in supporting the school’s new undergraduate degree programs in marine and environmental sciences. The space was intentionally designed to meet the demands of a research-intensive curriculum, providing the flexibility needed for interdisciplinary collaboration and future growth. With its proximity to Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, the facility strengthens the university’s ability to recruit top faculty and foster innovation in emerging fields such as environmental toxicology and sociology.