Saban Center Announces Partnership With NOAA's National Water Center

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Saban Center on Thursday announced yet another major partnership, this time with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

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This will be done through its National Water Center at the University of Alabama in the hopes of enhancing water literacy and promoting STEM education across Alabama.

“It is an honor to join forces with NOAA and align our mission with their vast expertise and resources," Saban Center Executive Director Audrey Buck said. "Their support and dedication to sustainability are vital in shaping the future of STEM education in West Alabama and will significantly influence our approach to integrating the arts and science.”

This is the second new major partner to be announced this month for the proposed STEM hub, after the Saban Center said The Westervelt Company will promote initiatives in environmental education, research and outreach.

The Saban Center says the NOAA National Water Center works to deepen the understanding of the vital role water resources play in sustaining society and powering industries, while also addressing the challenges posed by weather and water extremes.

Through the partnership, the Saban Center and the National Water Center aim to inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers and environmental stewards.

“The National Water Center is excited to partner with the Saban Center," said Edward Clark, director of NOAA’s National Water Center and Office of Water Prediction’s deputy director. "Not only will this help us advance NOAA’s goals of providing greater environmental stewardship and water literacy, but it will present a unique opportunity to elevate STEM and the arts in our community.”

The partnership will also place a focus on educating K-12 students about the water cycle, while encouraging careers in water resource sciences and engineering.

“We are proud to call Tuscaloosa home and eager to bolster the community through opportunities like the Saban Center,” Clark said.

As Patch previously reported, Tuscaloosa Mayor Walt Maddox revealed that design work is expected to be complete on the state-of-the-art educational facility by January 2025, followed by a groundbreaking that April.

The Saban Center is on track to open in June 2027.

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