Img 9405 Asms, Mobile — Governor Kay Ivey was in attendance at the ribbon cutting. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

It was a packed house at the grand opening of the Edward O. Wilson Science Research Center on campus at the Alabama School of Math and Science (ASMS).

Governor Kay Ivey and school Mobile Mayor Sandy Simpon were among the prestigious guests celebrating the newest building for the state’s best high school for STEM programs. Keep reading for a recap of the event + more about the new facility.

The only facility of its kind in Alabama

Img 8746 Asms, Mobile — Ribbon cutting for the facility was held on June 14, 2024. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

The E. O. Wilson Science Research Center is the only college-level science research facility at an Alabama public school.

It’s expected to supercharge the ASMS Research Fellows Program—which pairs students with faculty to conduct college-level research. The program had proved successful already but was limited by space at the school.

Img 9463 Asms, Mobile — Signage at the new E O Wilson Science Research Center. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

Enter this new 32,000-square-foot facility, equipped with:

Dedicated research rooms
State-of-the-art laboratory equipment
Upgraded classrooms
Innovative technology
Collaboration spaces

The facility is named after Alabama biologist and “Father of Biodiversity”, Dr. Edward E. Wilson—and the folks at ASMS are dedicated to preserving his legacy by cultivating the next greatest STEM minds in Alabama.

“The ASMS model is proven to be a consistent producer of high-achieving graduates and professionals for Alabama. Employment in STEM occupations has grown significantly…75 percent of ASMS will be sent to STEM majors, which is about six times the state average.”
Dr. Eric Mackey, Alabama Superintendant of Education

In attendance at the ribbon cutting was school founder and former Alabama State Representative, Ann Bedsole. Remarks focused on the tenacity of students, that their hard work is what makes expansions like this possible.

“So when you think of ASMS, please do not think that this is a school for the smart kids of Alabama. This is a school for any student in the state who is willing to work hard and who is motivated to learn.”
Keeshia Davis, ASMS Foundation Board Chair

Img 9413 Asms, Mobile — Ann Bedsole (L), Yunseo Ha, Gov. Kay Ivey, Bradley Byrne, Mayor Sandy Stimpson, Rep. Alan Baker, Kesshia Davis cutting the ribbon. (Liv George / The Bama Buzz)

About ASMS

ASMS is, in and of itself, a unique school for Alabama—it’s the only public, residential high school. The student body of around 300 is chosen on an application basis, and tuition is funded by the state.

Students can apply in the 9th or 10th grade for consideration. Applications open in September.

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