In early April 2024, renovations began on the Walla Walla University Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory. The project was completed in November 2024, providing 4,050 square feet of brand new classrooms, offices, restrooms, and lobby space.
This project took the largely unused basement of Lindgren Hall and completely transformed it. The space now holds two offices and three smart classrooms, with network capabilities and Wi-Fi available throughout the facility. Each classroom is equipped with speakers, HDMI hookups, an overhead projector and screen, and an audio-visual station with a computer. In addition, one of these classrooms includes a refrigerator to aid in biology research and study.
Pamela Cress, vice president of academic administration, said, “The new classrooms at Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory represent an ongoing and vital commitment to marine science education at Walla Walla University. By expanding our capacity for hands-on learning in a setting as rich and diverse as the Salish Sea, we are giving our students unparalleled opportunities to engage directly with the marine environment. These new classrooms will further enhance our ability to integrate classroom instruction with field research, fostering deeper understanding and stronger stewardship of our ocean ecosystems.”
Rosario is located on Rosario Beach, next to Deception Pass State Park, in the northwest corner of Washington state. The lab includes more than 40 acres of timberland, hills, wetlands, and beachfront on the beautiful Rosario Strait. The cabins include beautiful views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Olympic Mountains, Vancouver Island, and the San Juan Islands.
Rosario exists primarily to train undergraduate and graduate students in marine, field, and experimental sciences in a Christian setting. Outside of the summer academic term, its facilities are available for rent by individuals and non-profit organizations. This project not only offers students an improved educational environment but also gives visitors access to additional, up-to-date space perfect for any conference or meeting.
To learn more about studying or renting space at the Rosario Beach Marine Laboratory, visit wallawalla.edu/rosario.
Posted June 4, 2025.
