This new building brings all of Belmont’s health sciences and nursing programs from various makeshift back-of-the-campus locations to picture-postcard positioning at the front of the campus.

In the university’s architectural vernacular, the structure looks as though it has always been in place as an integral component of the more than century-year-old campus. Its contextual iconic portico, landscaped lawn, and stairs that provide entry from the street level are reminiscent of those of the University’s historic Freeman Hall. Parking for 350 cars is concealed beneath the building.

The Center represents a new nursing education model on a college campus to respond to the nursing shortage challenging healthcare systems. Within its learning environment, labs simulate acute care, maternity units, pediatric care, and physical therapy settings and are equipped with advanced technology to create real-life spaces and clinical situations. Through a unique partnership, HCA/Tri-Star chose Belmont University as a host to form relationships with other area higher-education institutions. As a result, Trevecca Nazarene University, Nashville State Community College, and Volunteer State Community College have joined Belmont’s Partners in a Nursing Consortium to combine upper level class and lab offerings.

Indeed, collaboration is at the heart of this facility. Bringing Belmont University’s health sciences and nursing programs together in a central location was paramount, but giving these programs visibility and presence on the campus has allowed these programs to flourish.

Photos by Scott McDonald © Hedrich Blessing; © Tom Gatlin