ABQ Times

The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center has unveiled the new UNM College of Nursing & Public Health Excellence (CON-PHE) building. This development aims to boost the state's healthcare workforce by increasing the number of graduates in nursing and public health.

The construction of this $43.2 million facility was supported by $30 million from general obligation bonds approved by New Mexico lawmakers and voters in 2020, along with funds from legislative sessions, university resources, and donors. The building represents a joint commitment by UNM and New Mexicans to enhance healthcare education and research.

UNM President Garnett S. Stokes remarked on the significance of this development: "This is a big moment in the history of UNM Health Sciences, as we are actively endeavoring to grow our health care workforce, continue with our ever-expanding cutting-edge research, and increase access to fantastic health care for our patients. This state-of-the-art facility represents an investment in a healthier, more prosperous New Mexico. And it is nothing short of a major investment in New Mexico’s future."

Spanning 93,000 square feet, the CON-PHE building is now active with students, faculty, and staff from both the UNM College of Nursing and UNM College of Population Health utilizing its modern classrooms and community hubs. Mike Richards, MD, MPA, Interim Executive Vice President of UNM Health Sciences Center stated: "The design of the building fosters collaboration and promotes a sense of community. The classroom spaces are contemporary and flexible and allow us to harness technology to give New Mexicans from all parts of our state new educational opportunities. We’ve created a space where our students can thrive and receive a world-class education."

For the UNM College of Nursing, this new space includes advanced laboratory facilities that signify progress in nursing education and research. Dean Rosario Medina commented: "The unveiling of the College of Nursing and Public Health Excellence Building is an important moment for our community. This new facility not only enhances our educational and research capabilities but also strengthens our commitment to health equity in New Mexico."

The building features three key lab spaces: a clinical research area for faculty researchers focusing on various health issues; a wet lab for handling chemicals and biological materials; and a collaborative research space designed for large group issues requiring community input.

Additionally, the new building consolidates staff and faculty from the UNM College of Population Health (COPH), which previously operated across different campuses. COPH Dean Tracie Collins emphasized its importance: "Our new state-of-the-art building is more than just a physical space. This facility provides a dynamic space for learning, research, and collaboration."