Renovated psychology labs give 'new energy' to department

February 10, 2026 (Volume 49, Number 11)
Article by Cass Wainwright

eight people behind a blue ribbon with scissors ready to cut it

Mary Bower Russa speaks at front of room

Three students with headphones on in a lab separated by wooden partitions

A celebration of the renovated psychology labs in Au Sable Hall was held January 30.

Photo Credit: Simon Zwart

Last summer, the psychology labs in Au Sable Hall were renovated for the first time in 30 years. Renovations included updating the computer labs, adding a waiting room, lab conference rooms, windows and another computer lab.

In late January, the Psychology Department held an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the renovation.

Following remarks from speakers, attendees split into groups to tour the space.

“This remodel has done more than update a physical space,” said Mary Bower Russa, professor of psychology and former department chair. “It really has given our department new life and it has given new energy.”

The addition of the windows and the waiting room made the space brighter and more welcoming, she said, adding that the renovations also modernized the space, making it more accessible.

“The new lab also embodies our institution's dedication to experiential learning and the promise of the CLAS Voyage,” said Donovan Anderson, interim dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Provost Jennifer Drake said the renovated labs have not only become a better space to be in but they have made conducting experiments better for the students, faculty and participants.

“Students are not just learning about psychology, they're practicing it,” Drake said. “They're learning how to ask meaningful questions, how to work ethically with human participants, how to analyze evidence and how to communicate what they discover.”

TowerPinkster completed the renovation project.

– Cass Wainwright is a senior majoring in writing and a student writer for University Communications.