Ohio University Zanesville unveils state-of-the-art Nursing Wing with Straker Foundation partnership

Ohio University Zanesville is set to host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation Nursing Wing, a pivotal development in the nursing program made possible by a $1.5 million donation from the Straker Foundation.

The event, scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 25 at 10:30 a.m. will mark the opening of the extensively renovated nursing facilities designed to train the next generation of healthcare professionals in east central Ohio.

The transformation of the nursing wing at Ohio University Zanesville addresses the urgent need for highly skilled nurses in the region, which has been designated as a healthcare shortage area by the Health Research and Services Administration’s Rural Health Information Hub. The new facilities include advanced practice labs, cutting-edge simulation spaces, and areas dedicated to faculty research and student collaboration.

Hannah Nissen, dean of campus and community relations at Ohio University Zanesville, emphasized the impact of the Straker Foundation's generosity: “This gift is not just an investment in our University but a profound commitment to the health and well-being of our entire region. The enhancements to our nursing program will increase our capacity by 15% within the next two years, enabling us to educate more nurses ready to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

The ceremony will feature remarks from Ohio University leadership and Straker Foundation representatives, followed by a ribbon-cutting and reception. Following the ribbon cutting, guests will be invited to tour the new facilities. These tours will showcase the integration of technology and design that facilitates an immersive learning environment for students.

The new wing features simulation labs that replicate hospital settings, a practice lab for hands-on instruction, and dedicated spaces for peer mentoring and collaboration.

This milestone event highlights Ohio University Zanesville’s commitment to advancing healthcare education and addressing the critical needs of the community.  All students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to witness this significant enhancement to Ohio University Zanesville and learn more about the impact of the Straker Foundation's support on the nursing program and the broader region.

To RSVP for the event, email Gail Hayes at hayesg@ohio.edu 

To learn more about the nursing program and other opportunities, visit ohio.edu/zanesville.  For more information about upcoming community events and media opportunities, contact Heather Sands, manager of campus communications and external relations, at hsands@ohio.edu.