News Summary
The University of Central Florida has unveiled the Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion, a state-of-the-art facility designed to combat the nursing shortage in Florida. With 90,000 square feet and a $72 million investment, the pavilion aims to increase UCF’s nursing graduate output from 260 to over 400 annually. This initiative responds to a projected deficit of 59,000 nurses in the state by 2035. The pavilion features advanced learning environments and promotes collaboration between nursing and medical students, addressing critical health education needs.
Orlando, Florida – UCF Opens State-of-the-Art Nursing Pavilion to Address Florida’s Nursing Shortage
The University of Central Florida (UCF) unveiled the new Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion on Monday, aiming to combat the escalating nursing shortage in Florida. This modern facility, which spans 90,000 square feet and cost $72 million, is located in Lake Nona and is set to expand the college’s capacity to train nursing students significantly.
The pavilion is designed to provide an additional 150 nursing graduates annually, which could boost UCF’s current output of approximately 260 nurses each year to over 400. This increase in the nursing workforce comes in response to a projected shortage of 59,000 nurses in Florida by 2035, according to the Florida Hospital Association and the Safety Net Hospital Alliance.
Amid a high demand for nursing education, UCF regularly turns away qualified applicants due to limited enrollment slots. The new nursing pavilion aims to address this gap and ensure that more students can enter the nursing profession. Currently, about 85% of UCF nursing alumni practice in Florida, with 60% of them remaining in the Central Florida region.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion features various advanced learning spaces, including expanded simulation hospital rooms and cutting-edge virtual/augmented reality environments. These facilities are developed to enhance hands-on learning experiences, vital for training competent nurses. The third floor of the pavilion includes a simulated hospital designed specifically for real-world education, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of clinical practice.
Funding for the pavilion came from a combination of $43 million in state funds and over $29 million in private donations. Notably, AdventHealth, which employs more than 10,000 nurses in Central Florida, played a pivotal role as a founding partner, contributing to both the funding and scholarships for students pursuing nursing degrees.
Collaboration Opportunities
Located in Lake Nona’s Medical City, the pavilion also offers opportunities for collaboration between UCF’s nursing and medical students, further enriching the learning environment. This integrated approach is expected to enhance the educational experience and better prepare students for the demands of the healthcare industry.
UCF broke ground on the pavilion in January 2024, highlighting its commitment to addressing the pressing nursing shortage in the state. The college aims to improve hands-on learning and research opportunities, proactively responding to the community’s growing health needs.
Positive Reception
As the new school year commenced, nursing students expressed enthusiasm for the state-of-the-art environment. Many reported that the modern technology and brighter, innovative spaces created a refreshing atmosphere conducive to learning. The unveiling of the Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion marks a significant milestone for both the university and the state’s efforts to bolster its nursing workforce amidst increasing public health challenges.
Community leaders, including Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, commended the collaborative efforts that secured funding for this critical project, reflecting a shared commitment to healthcare education and infrastructure.
The Dr. Phillips Nursing Pavilion is not just a building; it represents a strategic move to strengthen and expand Florida’s nursing workforce in the face of an impending shortage, securing a healthier future for the state and its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University Opens New Nursing Pavilion at UCF
University of Central Florida Announces Major Campus Investments
Additional Resources
- Advent Health: UCF Opens New Nursing Facility
- Orlando Sentinel: UCF Opens State-of-the-Art Nursing Building
- Fox 35 Orlando: UCF College of Nursing Breaks Ground
- Wikipedia: Nursing Shortage
- Google Search: UCF Nursing Facilities
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
