Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky, US, has started construction works on its School of Nursing and Health Professions building.
A ground-breaking event was held for the building, which will offer expanded opportunities such as laboratories and simulation areas to Murray State students.
The building will also feature larger classrooms and additional spaces for studies and collaborations.
It is intended to help Murray State University address regional needs for healthcare professionals, as the field is witnessing more demand.
Murray State University president Dr Bob Jackson said: “Today’s groundbreaking for Murray State University’s new School of Nursing and Health Professions building is a tremendous moment for our institution, the west Kentucky region, the Commonwealth and beyond.
“We are very grateful to all of our legislators for their support as this initiative becomes a reality through the construction of this beautiful state-of-the-art facility.
“Through our excellent faculty and staff in the School of Nursing and Health Professions, we are continuing to prepare our students well as the next generation of healthcare professionals.”
The Kentucky General Assembly has approved $45.5m of funding for developing the facility, which is scheduled to open in January 2026.
Murray State University is working with RossTarant Architects and design firm Ayers Saint Gross on the facility's architectural and interior design.
Marcum Engineering and Bacon Farmer Workman (BFW) Engineering & Testing have been appointed to oversee other areas of the project, such as its electrical, mechanical and structural design.
Murray State University School of Nursing and Health Professions Dean Dr Dina Byers said: “We will provide healthcare education that is interdisciplinary and collaborative by using state-of-the-art technology and creative instruction.
“Graduates from these programmes will have the knowledge and skills to provide care to complex patients in a variety of settings.
“Our graduates will be well-equipped to help meet the healthcare workforce needs of western Kentucky and beyond.”
