Beginning in April of 2024, both MSSU’s faculty and students have closely observed the construction of the Roy Blunt Health Science building. Over the course of two years, the building has quickly taken shape, signifying the beginning of a new future for MSSU’s health students. Linda Eis, MSSU’s Chief Financial Officer, and Dr. Dean Van Galen, president of the university, share insight on the building’s background, costs, and inevitable influence it will have on the lives of both professors and students.
Reflecting its sterile, sleek outside appearance and modernized design, the Roy Blunt building is equally revolutionary in its interior. The layout, containing both a Welcome Center and a simulation hospital, welcomes groundbreaking possibilities for the university. Linda Eis elaborates on this further.
“This facility provides impactful immersive learning experiences throughout the simulation hospital,” says Eis. “Students will engage in health and life sciences learning that will impact their experience and change our community in addressing healthcare needs.”
Given the ever-changing landscape of healthcare, the Roy Blunt building will help prepare students for all possibilities. Providing virtual-reality technology and simulations of medical units, the hospital setting of the building allows students to become immersed in the medical care scene while remaining on campus. The Welcome Center is intended to have a similar influence on the university, becoming the first steppingstone for all newcomers to MSSU’s campus.
“The Welcome Center will be our new front door and share everything the university has to offer,” shares Eis.
Totaling to be a $48.2 million project, construction of the new building was entirely funded by external sources. The state of Missouri, the city of Joplin, Jasper County, and significant supporters of the university have all influenced the buildings commission. Most notable, a $2 million HRSA grant, facilitated by former U.S Senator Roy Blunt, also contributed to the building’s construction. Serving as the president of Southwest Baptist University from 1993-1996, Blunt has shown continuous support towards higher education. Dr. Van Galen comments on this.
“Throughout his career, Senator Roy Blunt has had tremendous positive impact on Southwest Missouri, supporting education and many projects in our region,” says Van Galen. “We are honored to recognize his distinguished public service and support of MSSU by having the health science innovation facility bear his name.”
Following a new statewide mission, the building aims to serve under three main pillars: Explore boldly, care deeply, and impact globally. Housing a Global Education office, the building will offer a space where students can strive towards these ideals. With support and inspiration leading students, the building is a gateway towards global engagement and explorative adventures in the healthcare world.
“This opportunity is truly transformational for our students, community, and region,” says Eis.
Finalization of the building’s construction continues to follow its planned period for 2026. Remaining requirements before completion include equipment installations in the simulation hospital, as well as furnishing the building. Final landscaping touches will also be put into place in the coming weeks.
