On February 19th, the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami formally dedicated the Stella M. Holmes Art Research Center (ARC), an important addition to the university's exceptional research facilities.

ARC, a teaching facility in the heart of the museum, is comprised of two flexible classrooms surrounded by glass display cases. It's also a place where art students can spend time independently examining objects from the Lowe's permanent collection.

Stella Holmes, a UM alumna who is ARC's benefactor, said the concept evolved through conversations with the Lowe about how to enhance UM's innovative ArtLab course, in which students research, design and curate an exhibition.

"To me, art is a very important tool of communication in today's multicultural world," she said. "It builds bridges between different cultures, different generations, different times. ARC will allow these students to experience artifacts from the cultures they are studying more intimately than ever before."

Philanthropy, Ms. Holmes said, benefits the giver as well as the receiver.

"I am grateful that my fruitful relationship with UM did not end at graduation, but that I can help it to continue to grow through opportunities like this."