A new space at the University of Nebraska at Kearney highlights the importance of health education in rural areas. The atrium in the Health Science Education Center II will be named the Carey and Brian Hamilton Atrium, honoring their generous support of health initiatives.
The couple has pledged $5 million to help tackle the shortage of health care providers in rural Nebraska. Their gift includes both a direct contribution and plans for a future donation. This funding will establish the UNK Endowed Fund for Rural Health Initiatives, ensuring ongoing support for rural health programs at the university.
Chancellor Neal Schnoor praised the Hamiltons for their commitment to UNK and its students. “Their leadership is shaping the future of our campus and supporting aspiring health professionals,” he said. Such initiatives are crucial since many rural communities struggle to find adequate health care providers.
The new Health Science Education Center II, which opened in January, expands educational offerings for medical students in Kearney. This center is part of the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex, which aims to boost the health workforce in Nebraska.
The Hamiltons are not only campaign chairs but also local business leaders. They believe in giving back to the communities they call home. “We’re all connected, and together we can make a real difference,” they said.
According to a recent study by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, the state will need over 1,000 new health care professionals in rural areas by 2025 to meet demand. Programs like the Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP) at UNK help bridge this gap by recruiting rural students and providing scholarships, ensuring they are prepared to serve their communities.
With the addition of the new atrium, UNK will enhance its ability to train future health care workers. The Hamilton Atrium stands as a testament to the impact of community support on education and health care.
The dedication for the complex is set for May 14. As more students enroll in Kearney, this initiative aims to improve health care access significantly.
The Hamiltons have deep ties to Nebraska, and their accomplishments in business reflect their dedication to their communities. Carey Hamilton’s background in automotive and Brian Hamilton’s experience in retail exemplify their commitment to local growth. They hope their contributions encourage others to support health education, especially in rural areas.
For those interested in learning more about rural health initiatives, resources are available through the University of Nebraska Foundation here.
