3North congratulates William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Sciences (VIMS) on receiving a transformational gift of $100 million from philanthropist Jane Batten to establish William & Mary’s Batten School of Coastal & Marine Sciences at VIMS. The newly named Batten School will expand current VIMS research and focus on addressing critical challenges faced by coastal communities worldwide, including sea level rise, increased storm intensity, flooding, and loss of agricultural land.

In June 2023, 3North completed an Intangible Qualities (IQ) Charrette and Conceptual Design Study, establishing a vision for a range of improvements on the VIMS campus. Guided by visionary VIMS leadership, 3North conducted an extensive stakeholder engagement process and identified several campus improvements to better support the Institute’s ongoing work and further reflect its transformative vision for the future.

The study highlighted the opportunity for the campus itself to become a catalyst with far-reaching internal and external impacts. We are thrilled that the Batten gift will help bring this vision to life. Proposed campus improvements include a renovated visitor center and new infrastructure designed to build community, serve the public with engaging educational opportunities, and present emerging solutions. Additionally, the study identified related landscape enhancements to improve campus connectivity and celebrate the dramatic riverfront location.

The outcome of the campus transformation projects will include expanded opportunities to convene stakeholders and scientists around emerging solutions to coastal and marine challenges, and new opportunities to engage students, educators, policymakers, and the public. We are proud to contribute to the future of such a vital area of study and thrilled to be a part of the VIMS vision, now so generously supported by the Batten gift. Looking forward to seeing VIMS bring this vision into reality!

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