The Highline Community College Marine Science and Technology Center (MaST), a new public education center on Redondo Beach in Des Moines, was formally dedicated in a ceremony on June 16.

The event included a dedication ceremony, a ribbon cutting, and a reception inside the MaST.

Participants in the dedication ceremony included Congressman Adam Smith, Highline president Jack Bermingham, Des Moines Mayor Bob Sheckler and Highline Community College Foundation board member Dan Altmayer. Altmayer is co-chair of the capital campaign committee.

"All three components of our mission --teaching, research, and community outreach --all come together at the MaST," Bermingham said. "It is a unique facility for marine science education in our region and a wonderful resource for the community. Building this new center was indeed a community effort, and I am grateful to all those who helped make the MaST a reality." _

Bob Maplestone, MaST director, emphasized the role the center plays as a resource for creating stewardship of the marine environment.

"It's critical that we explain to our children and the public, the beauty, complexity and importance of the South Puget Sound ecosystem and what we need to do to sustain the health of our waters," said Mapletsone.

Numerous individuals and foundations made significant gifts to help fund the MaST, including the State of Washington, Darlyne Olsen, Michael and Joan Allan, the 2007-08 Highline Student Body, KeyBank, The Seattle Foundation, The Norcliffe Foundation, Troy Schneebeck, Michael and Kathryn Regeimbal, Frederick and Shannon Bell, Jack and Gail Bermingham, Michael and Jane Emerson and The Boeing Company.

The dedication ceremony did not mark the opening of the MaST. Staff continues to put the finishing touches on the center and is finalizing the aquaria and displays in preparation for the first Water Weekend from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 28.