The School of Medicine will officially dedicate on Sept. 29 the Li Ka Shing Center for Learning and Knowledge, which is intended to spur dramatic changes in the way in which physicians are trained.

The soaring, five-story building has a diverse array of sophisticated technologies - including one of the largest and most advanced simulation facilities in the country and a high-end video capture system.

"The LKSC exemplifies the future of medical education," University President John Hennessy, PhD, said. "Positioned in the center of the School of Medicine, the LKSC builds on our strengths in the biomedical sciences and related disciplines. Its use of cutting-edge technology advances a new model for educating doctors and scientists in this century and will allow us to make even greater contributions to society."

"We owe a special thanks to Mr. Li Ka-shing for his visionary philanthropy, as well as to the many other donors whose generosity has made this building possible," he added.

Hong Kong entrepreneur Li Ka-shing, the building's major benefactor, is scheduled to speak at the ceremony with Hennessy.

Facing Campus Drive and overlooking a park-like front lawn, the LKSC replaces the school's 50-year-old education and library facilities, which were constructed when the school moved from San Francisco to Palo Alto. The total cost of the new building is $90.2 million, financed through private philanthropy, debt and school resources.