By Marley Anthony, Assistant Editor

On Oct. 26, 2026, the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor announced a $2 million challenge grant from an anonymous donor to support the construction for the new science lab. 

“Meeting this new challenge will ensure that we open this $50 million facility debt-free, a tremendous accomplishment made possible by the generosity of donors,” UMHB President Randy O’Rear said.

To receive this grant, UMHB is required to raise an additional $2 million by May 31, 2027. “This generous gift gives us another opportunity to double the impact of every dollar raised,” UMHB Vice President for Advancement Tucker Glaske said. 

The 56,000 square-foot facility was announced in Oct. 2025 with plans being publicly released on Feb. 6, 2026. The building will be three stories and feature 13 science labs, conference rooms and space for students to participate in hands-on research and teaching. A name for the building has yet to be confirmed.

The building was originally set to be completed in Dec. 2027, but the rise of data centers has created a shortage of steel. In April 2026, The Temple Daily Telegram cited Steve Theodore, Chief Operating Officer, “These large data centers have consumed the supply of steel. We are having to delay the commencement of construction due to this delay.” 

The university is proceeding with plans despite steel supply issues and interruptions with the science building scheduled to be completed and ready for students by Fall 2028. The $2 million challenge grant will help UMHB create an innovative learning space for undergraduate students using the labs.

“We are overwhelmed and humbled by what God is doing on the UMHB campus, and we give Him all the glory.” O’Rear said.