Bader gift supports construction of UWM science complex

Milwaukee philanthropists Isabel and Alfred Bader have made a gift of $1.6 million to the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee for the construction of the new Kenwood Interdisciplinary Research Complex.
 In addition, UWM’s Center for Gravitation and Cosmology, which will be housed in the complex, will be named in honor of UWM Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Physics Leonard E. Parker, former director of the center.
“We are deeply grateful for this cornerstone support from Isabel and Alfred Bader for what will become the showcase facility at the new gateway to our campus,” said UWM Chancellor Michael R. Lovell. “It is extremely fitting that their gift honors one of the most distinguished professors in the history of our university. His contributions to UWM exemplify what we believe will take place in this complex in the decades to come.”
The complex will be the first new building on the UWM campus in more than a decade. The Physics Department will be the anchor tenant of the first building.
When completed, the complex will combine researchers working in science, technology, engineering and mathematics in one campus location. The facility will foster collaborations among university scientists and industry partners, who will generate knowledge with near-future applications, educate new generations of scientist-leaders, and stimulate business development.
Construction is set to begin 2012, with expected occupancy in 2015.