The college has completed its first five months in its new home with remarkable momentum, building connections, and a growing sense of community. Since opening its doors in August, the college has welcomed new and returning students, launched state-of-the-art simulation teachings, and cultivated a collaborative learning environment rooted in the Volunteer spirit.
For many students, the new building has already transformed the nursing experience.
“As a senior in the nursing program, the new UT Medical Nursing Building has given me something I didn’t realize I was missing, which is a true sense of community,” said senior Miana Rankin. “It is so special to finally have a place where all of us can learn, grow, and support each other under one roof.”
A Strong Start to the Semester
The fall semester opened with a ribbon cutting ceremony, students learning their way around, and the first classes held in the college’s advanced simulation and skills labs. By September, students had settled into routines of coursework, sim lab practice, and study groups, quickly building the supportive networks essential in nursing education.
“I have never felt more part of a community thanks to the UT Medical Nursing Building,” shared senior Jiro Greenberg-Oster. “I see my classmates, professors, and colleagues every day pursuing their goals alongside my own.”
A Semester of Milestones
December marked a significant milestone as the College hosted its third pinning ceremony, the first held in the new building. The event celebrated not only the achievements of graduating students, but also the promise of a new chapter for the College of Nursing.
“Since we have been in the new UT Medical Nursing Building, I have a renewed sense of pride,” said Takia Faniyi, Office of Student Services administrator. “Our space allows our team environment to thrive and creates a workplace that feels like home.”
Graduate Programs assistant Katie Perry echoed that sentiment:
“Even after being in the new building for several months, I still find myself in awe that we are finally here. Having a space for our students to experience the best education they can is rewarding in itself. It’s nice to finally have a home sweet home for nursing.”
Students Find Their Home Base
For many seniors finishing their final year, the new building represents both comfort and community.
“As a senior nursing student, the timing of the new building could not have been better,” said Madison Dennis. “It’s become our home base for our final year. The place where we come together, support each other, and finish strong.”
Others have celebrated the building’s features and its central location.
“I absolutely love the new nursing building, especially all the different study spaces,” said Grace Li. “It has been an amazing experience utilizing the skills labs and SIM rooms. I love having all of my classes in a central location. My favorite thing is that the building faces Neyland, and when the weather is nice, I love studying on the patio.”
Graduate clinical coordinator, Hailey Hernandez, shared her thoughts. “It’s been wonderful being in the new building. After years of being spread across campus, it’s so nice to see all your colleagues in one place. Our graduate students have come to campus twice for doctoral intensives since the building opened, and having all their classes and events in one building has led to better networking and experiences with faculty and student colleagues. Having worked in the old nursing building and our temporary space on the Hill in the Nursing Education Building, I am so excited to settle into Nursing’s forever home.”
Looking Ahead
The new building has already become a place where students learn, faculty lead, and the Volunteer community grows stronger every day. As the College continues to expand its programs and experiences, its new home will remain at the heart of a bright future for Tennessee’s next generation of nurses.
“Moving into the new building has truly felt like coming home; only this time, it feels like we’re home for good. I’ve already been able to reconnect with colleagues I’d only seen a handful of times since the transition, and it’s been such a gift,” shared clinical instructor Staci Wheeler. “What I love most is seeing our students finally have a place to call their own. They bring so much joy to this space.”
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CONTACT:
Kara Clark Cardwell ([email protected], 865-974-9498)