Building is expected to open in Fall 2028
July 27, 2026 – Ephraim, UT – Snow College officially broke ground today on the Mark R. and LeAnn W. Stoddard Social Sciences Building, marking the beginning of a transformational project that will serve students for generations to come.
Trustees, legislators, community leaders, donors, alumni, employees, and students gathered to celebrate the start of the $42 million facility, approved by the Utah Legislature in 2024. The 45,000-square-foot building will more than double the college's classroom capacity for the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, while providing collaborative learning spaces, learner-focused labs, and modern resources for students.
President Stacee Y. McIff recognized the many partners who made the project possible, including the Utah Legislature, the Utah Board of Higher Education, DFCM, VCBO Architecture, Layton Construction, Ephraim City, and Snow College employees (current and former) whose years of planning led to today's milestone.
"This building represents years of planning, partnership, and shared vision," said President McIff. "The students who learn here will become teachers, coaches, mental health professionals, law enforcement officers, social workers, public servants, and countless other professionals whose influence will extend far beyond this campus."
The building is named in honor of Mark R. and LeAnn W. Stoddard, recognizing their decades of service, philanthropy, and advocacy for Snow College. Their early leadership gift helped demonstrate community support for the project and played an important role in moving it forward.
Brian McBeth, Vice President of Layton Construction, said the project continues a partnership that spans more than two decades. "Returning to the Snow College campus feels less like starting a new project and more like continuing a long-standing partnership. We are honored to help bring the new Social Science Building to life and continue investing in a campus that our team genuinely enjoys being part of."
Following remarks from President McIff, Dean Mike Brenchley, representatives of Layton Construction, and members of the Stoddard family, the ceremony concluded with a ceremonial turning of the dirt, as project partners, elected officials, the Stoddard family, and college leaders celebrated this significant milestone in the building's construction.
Snow College, founded in 1888 by Utah pioneers, is a two-year college with campuses located in Ephraim and Richfield, Utah, and a learning center in Nephi, Utah. Serving more than 5,000 students, the college is committed to helping students graduate debt-free, gain resume-worthy experience, and develop a plan for the future. The affordable price and personalized environment full of opportunities allow students who find Snow College to find themselves. Learn more about all Snow College has to offer online at snow.edu.
