U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) visited Bluefield State University today to tour the ongoing construction of its Medical Education Center, a project partially funded by $7.4 million in federal funding she helped secure.
The state-of-the-art facility aims to address healthcare workforce shortages in West Virginia and beyond by training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“This new center at Bluefield State University will provide students with the tools and training they need to succeed in the medical field, while also helping to alleviate the healthcare workforce shortages we are seeing across the state and the country,” said Senator Capito.
The funding is part of a broader federal investment in healthcare infrastructure throughout West Virginia.
Bluefield State’s new Medical Education Center will feature cutting-edge simulation labs, advanced medical technology, and innovative classrooms designed to deliver a comprehensive healthcare education.
The university’s efforts will focus on critical fields such as nursing and radiologic technology.
During her visit, Senator Capito met with university officials, faculty, and students to discuss the significance of the center, particularly in serving rural and underserved communities.
“This investment is a game-changer for our students and the communities they will serve. It will allow us to expand our medical programs and offer hands-on training opportunities in a modern, state-of-the-art facility,” said BSU Interim President Darrin Martin.
Bluefield State acquired the former Bluefield Regional Medical Center in 2020 after the facility’s closure and has since repurposed the space into a modern educational complex.
The university has already invested nearly $5 million into renovations, which include the addition of a cafeteria, dormitories for over 230 students, and classrooms. The dormitories represent the university’s first on-campus housing in more than 50 years.
Phase I of the construction is nearing completion, with classes set to begin in January 2024. Phase II, expected to start in early 2025, will include the addition of a respiratory therapy program, expanding BSU’s healthcare offerings.
“Bluefield State University is committed to preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Angela Lambert, Dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health. “The addition of the respiratory therapy program strengthens our ability to meet the healthcare needs of the region.”
The Medical Education Center is expected to be completed by late summer 2025.