Vincennes University is expecting major changes with the construction of a new health sciences building.

The $34 million design is nearly complete, and anticipation is growing as the university prepares to award contract for construction early next year.

VU President Dr. Chuck Johnson announced that the construction of the new health and science building will be the single largest project in the history of the university.

The 70,000-square-foot Center for Health Sciences and Active Learning will built on the former site of Harrison Hall, located just south of Updike Hall.

The building will be completely different and modernized with state-of-the-art clinical simulation labs equipped with high-fidelity manikins, virtual reality simulators, and video recording systems.

“It is very exciting, not only for the students but also the faculty to be able to have the technology you see in today’s workspace,” said Michelle Cummins, dean of the college of Health Sciences and Human Performance.

A highlight of the new facility will be the incorporation of dynamic, active learning spaces, she said. These spaces will be constructed to foster collaboration, teamwork, and adaptability, providing flexible learning environments that will be used  by all the colleges on campus.

With this exciting change, Cummins has high hopes for seeing more enrollment and transfer students coming to learn at VU.

“Healthcare workers are needed everywhere, even locally, so with these new resources, I hope to see more students able to fill those jobs that the healthcare industry needs,” she said with a smile.