The Environmental Education Center, housed in the Gristmill building, has an outdoor laboratory where artificial wetlands are part of the Monastery Run Mine Drainage Coalition’s successful effort to cleanse the stream of impurities and coloration by filtering the water through layers of limestone. In addition to being utilized by local school groups, it is regularly used in our Chemistry and Environmental science courses. The gristmill was originally completed in December 1854. Many farmers from the area made use of the gristmill for the storage and grinding of their grain. The renovation, completed in 2004, was made possible by the generous donations of public and private organizations. The restored building includes a mini-museum on the gristmill, the Environmental Education Center and a gift shop.

Built on 163 years of Catholic, Benedictine tradition, Saint Vincent is welcoming to students of all faiths. For the two-thirds who are Catholic, Masses are offered seven days a week. Whatever their faith, all students are welcome to explore their spirituality through quiet reflection, community service, retreats sponsored by campus ministry or in whatever ways they choose.