Philander Smith University announced Monday (March 16) it has secured $7 million in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending request by U.S. Senator John Boozman, R-Ark., to support improvements to the Harry R. Kendall Health and Science Center and expand training capacity for its nursing program.
The announcement was made during a press conference held in the atrium of the Harry R. Kendall Health and Science Center on the Philander Smith University campus.
The investment will support facility and equipment upgrades, the acquisition of a mobile unit for the nursing program, and related campus improvements designed to strengthen healthcare workforce preparation and expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing and allied health.
“This investment to help establish the Health and Science Center will result in expanded hands-on training for future healthcare professionals,” said Boozman. “By supporting modern facilities and a mobile unit for the nursing program, we are ensuring students gain the skills needed to serve communities across Arkansas and meeting the growing demand for quality medical care.”
Dr. Maurice D. Gipson, president of Philander Smith University, said the investment represents a significant step forward for the institution’s growing health science programs and its commitment to preparing students for careers in high-demand fields.
“Philander Smith University has long been committed to preparing students to lead lives of service and impact,” said Gipson. “This investment strengthens our capacity to deliver high-quality training in the health sciences while expanding opportunities for students to gain the hands-on experience necessary to serve communities across Arkansas and beyond.”
Gipson noted that improvements to the Kendall Health and Science Center and the addition of a mobile training unit will expand the university’s ability to provide modern, experiential learning opportunities for students preparing for careers in healthcare.