Discover Pima Community College’s New Center of Excellence in Health Professions: A Hub for Future Healthcare Leaders!

Pima Community College recently opened its new “Center of Excellence in Health Professions” in Tucson, Arizona. This impressive facility, costing $33 million, showcases the college’s commitment to advancing healthcare education.

Construction began in October 2023, and already the center is set to make a significant impact. PCC leaders aim to tackle the shortage of healthcare workers by increasing the number of students in various programs.

PCC Chancellor Jeffery Nasse emphasizes the center’s benefits for students, faculty, and the community. “It’s a win for all,” he states. This facility is designed to enhance the well-being of the local area by producing skilled healthcare professionals.

The complex spans 81,000 square feet, featuring three four-story buildings. Inside, students will find modern classrooms and advanced laboratories equipped with the latest technology and simulators, all essential for training in healthcare careers.

The center will support programs in dental studies, nursing, surgical technology, respiratory therapy, and pharmacy, among others. Nursing student Kimberly Riggi expressed her excitement about the new facility, noting it will help her sharpen her skills for real-world patient interactions.

Financial support for this project includes $2.5 million from federal HUD-directed funding, thanks to Arizona Senators Kyrsten Sinema and Mark Kelly. This investment ensures the center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and educational resources.

Nasse highlights that while the center is a place for learning, its ultimate goal is to improve healthcare quality for the community. With the center now open, PCC encourages those interested in healthcare careers to enroll and take advantage of this new opportunity.