FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Saturn Institute Launches $26 Million Campaign to Establish Groundbreaking Agricultural Campus and Trade School in Pontiac, Michigan
PONTIAC, MI – July 2, 2025 – The Saturn Institute, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, today announced the launch of an ambitious $26 million capital campaign to transform a 100,000-square-foot school building on 8 acres at 600 Motor Street in Pontiac, Michigan, into a state-of-the-art agricultural campus and trade school for farming. This pioneering initiative aims to establish Pontiac as a national hub for future farmers and sustainable food development.
The new campus will feature an innovative design centered around four distinct quads, each dedicated to a specialized area of agricultural study and practice:
Research and Development Quad: Focused on advancing cutting-edge farming processes and technologies.
Agricultural Quad: Dedicated to indoor farming techniques, utilizing advanced water technology for efficient food cultivation.
Aquaculture Quad: Concentrated on the cultivation of fish, from growth to market distribution, and the development of fish farming techniques.
Academics Quad: Offering a comprehensive curriculum covering all facets of farming, from cultivation and distribution to culinary applications.
A central common area will house a cafeteria and meeting rooms, serving as a vibrant gathering space for students and the community.
“This has been over a year in the making to bring us to fruition,” stated Joseph Malik, President of the Saturn Institute. “A lot of time has been dedicated to ensuring a project of this magnitude will work, as well as getting the community behind it. We believe this campus will not only educate the next generation of farmers but also uplift the entire region.
“The campus is designed with a strong emphasis on community engagement, featuring several unique attractions that will be open to the public:
A Sanctuary Garden with waterfalls and sculptured art, serving as a peaceful gathering center.
A unique Bee Box, a glass enclosure allowing visitors to observe bees in the fascinating process of making honey.
An outdoor farm where produce will be grown and made available directly to the public at a roadside stand.
Furthering its commitment to community involvement, the Saturn Institute campus will open to the public four times a year, aligning with the Equinox and Solstice. Each opening will feature a week of activities designed to involve the community in learning about agricultural systems.
Funding for the Saturn Institute’s transformative project will be secured through a combination of generous donations, grant monies, and dedicated fundraisers.
As a 501(c)(3) organization, all contributions to the Saturn Institute are tax-deductible.
This campus is envisioned to be a focal point in America for agricultural education, providing future farmers with a deeper understanding of food development and the crucial role of the food chain.
The Saturn Institute invites individuals, organizations, and businesses to join in this monumental effort.
Whether through financial donations, volunteering time, or joining the dedicated staff, every contribution will help bring this vital vision to life.About the Saturn Institute:
The Saturn Institute is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to advancing agricultural education and sustainable farming practices.
Through its innovative campus and comprehensive programs, the Institute aims to empower future generations with the knowledge and skills needed to build a resilient and thriving food system.
Contact: Joseph Malik President
248.919.8882
www.saturninstitute.com
