October 13, 2022
by Jere W. Morehead, President
We recently dedicated the University of Georgia’s science library in honor of Dr. Shirley Mathis McBay, the first Black student to receive a Ph.D. from UGA and the first woman to earn a doctorate in mathematics on our campus. The late Dr. McBay not only holds a special place in the history of our institution but also made a meaningful impact on our entire nation through her tireless efforts to promote the participation and advancement of underrepresented students in the STEM disciplines.
The Shirley Mathis McBay Science Library is a fitting tribute to this groundbreaking alumna as it sits at the epicenter of campus for those studying in the STEM disciplines and plays a vital role in their education. It is one of the most popular study spots on campus, hosting a half-million visits from students each year, and recently underwent renovations to increase seating capacity and facilitate student learning through new amenities such as a makerspace with 3D design and printing, a multitouch iWall, a GradWrite space for graduate-level writing assistance, and more.
We were grateful that Dr. McBay’s son Ronald and others who were significant to Dr. McBay were able to join us for the dedication. We look forward to the positive impact the Shirley McBay Science Library will have on our students’ education for generations to come.