(OKLAHOMA CITY) — Today, the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation officially dedicated the Chapman Research Building. The $4.5 million project was financed by gifts from the J.A. and Leta Chapman Trust. The project included both new construction and renovated space totaling 17,795 square feet, bringing the total square footage of the Chapman Research Building and Pavilion (formerly the “Main Building”) to 120,000 square feet. The building was officially dedicated by Sharon Bell, a Tulsa attorney who serves as the Chairman of OMRF’s Executive Committee and as co-trustee of the Chapman Trusts and by Jim Holloman, President of the Trust Division at the Bank of Oklahoma.
“The Chapman Research Building and Pavilion signifies OMRF in the 21st century,” said president J. Donald Capra, M.D. Capra also noted that “throughout the years, we’ve seen scores of renovations and additions… but today’s ceremony truly represents the metamorphosis of OMRF through the years.”
Dr. Ruth Kirschstein, Acting Director of the National Institutes of Health gave the keynote address at the afternoon ceremony. During her remarks, Dr. Kirschstein focused on OMRF’s successful history and promising future and the importance of basic biomedical research. She also praised the scientific staff, saying “… when Sir Alexander Fleming originally dedicated OMRF, his endorsement ensured that this foundation would recruit and support the best and brightest scientists. Today, the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation has established itself as a premiere research institution in this country…. based on its own merits, accomplishments, and successful track record.” The featured speaker at OMRF’s first dedication, on July 4, 1949, was Sir Alexander Fleming, discover of Penicillin and arguably one of the greatest scientists of the 20th Century.
Other speakers included Capra, Dr. David Brown, Chairman of the Board, and Jo Anna Campbell, a Norman resident who has been a longtime supporter of OMRF. As part of his speech, Dr. Brown dedicated a time capsule – a “living library” of OMRF’s first 54 years – which will be buried in the floor of the Everest Foyer. The time capsule will not be opened until at least 2021.
The Chapman Research Building and Pavilion project includes the renovation of the original structure as well as the addition of a fourth floor. The new space includes research laboratories for the Immunobiology and Cancer program and the Arthritis and Immunology department. In addition, the Everest Pavilion is home to six original works of art by renowned artist, Jesus Moroles. Five granite discs are suspended from the ceiling while a granite mosaic is incorporated into the floor. All pieces represent different aspects of science and life.
The architectural firm of Miles Associates, which has overseen the expansion and renovation of OMRF’s physical structure since 1980, was responsible for the building design. Hatcher Construction, the general contractor, has also completed several projects for OMRF in the past few years. Both firms are located in Oklahoma City. The renovated exterior is comprised of white limestone and glass, complementing the other buildings that comprise the OMRF campus.
For additional information, including digital photographs from the ceremony, please contact Andrea Miles, Public & Media Relations, OMRF.
Invocation by Dr. Michael E. Anderson
Keynote address by Dr. Ruth Kirschstein (Acting Director of the National Institutes of Health)
