MMI Breaks Ground on $35M Math and Science Building

From the West Alabama Newsroom – Marion Military Institute (MMI) has officially broken ground on a transformative new campus facility: the Anthony J. Rane Hall, a state-of-the-art math and science building that marks only the second major construction project on the historic campus in the past three decades.

The new 50,000-square-foot facility will significantly expand MMI’s academic offerings. Plans include modern science labs, flexible classrooms, a computer science and gaming center, and a large lecture hall that doubles as a storm shelter—a critical addition for both students and the surrounding community.

Funding for the project comes from a $35 million federal appropriation championed by former U.S. Senator Richard Shelby, who emphasized the institution’s importance on both a state and national level.

“This is a national treasure. It’s been here a long time. It’s a jewel, it’s important to this community. But it’s important to the nation,” said Shelby.

He added that MMI’s reach extends far beyond Alabama’s borders:

“Over 40 states are represented in the student body here. That says a lot.”

Founded in 1842, MMI is the oldest military junior college in the U.S. and is part of the Alabama Community College System. Known for producing distinguished military leaders and civilian professionals, the institution has long been regarded as a cornerstone of both military education and local identity.

The groundbreaking ceremony brought together school leaders, alumni, community members, and elected officials, many of whom noted that Rane Hall represents not only an academic investment but also a symbol of MMI’s growth and resilience.

With the addition of the new building, MMI will be better equipped to prepare students for STEM-related careers, an area of growing demand across the nation. Faculty members say the facility will help attract new students and provide them with the tools to compete in a rapidly changing workforce.

The project is expected to create a wave of construction jobs during its development and further strengthen ties between the college and the Marion community. Once complete, Rane Hall is anticipated to stand as a landmark facility, blending historic tradition with modern innovation.

Local leaders praised the investment, calling it a major step forward for both MMI and Alabama higher education. The new facility is scheduled to open in the coming years, with construction expected to begin immediately following site preparations.

Originally reported by George McDonald in Waka News.