The AE Department was pleased to host the annual AE Senior Thesis Kickoff Seminar on April 19, 2001 at the Nittany Lion Inn.  The featured speakers were Mr. Greg Mella, Architect, and Ms. Cindy Cogil, Engineer from the SmithGroup in Washington, DC.  The topic of the seminar was  “Sustainable Design and Construction: The Philip Merrill Environmental Center.”

They discussed the recently completed Chesapeake Bay Foundation Headquarters in Annapolis, MD, which uses 50 percent less energy than comparable office buildings.  They also explained how the incorporation of recycled materials, solar panels, natural ventilation, and other features makes this structure an outstanding example of green architecture. 

The 32,000-square foot office building is part of a 31-acre parcel of land that will serve as an environmental education and training center for students and volunteers. CBF and its volunteers will also restore wetlands, forests, and shoreline habitats that are part of the site.
The new headquarters is the first and currently only project to receive the Platinum Medal, the United States Green Building Council’s highest award.  The award is based on a rating system that provides direction and definition for energy conservation and sustainable design.