Ferris State University plans renovations and expansion of Victor F. Spathelf Center for Allied Health

Ferris State University is planning renovations and an expansion of the Victor F. Spathelf Center for Allied Health. Michigan’s state government budget includes planning authorization funding for the project, which will allow for the beginning stages of the project to get underway, including preconstruction, engineering, and design work. The renovations are expected to help the university address the state’s shortage of healthcare professionals.

According to an article on Ferris State University’s website, Dean Lincoln Gibbs was quoted as saying of the project, “This approval represents far more than a renovation. It is an investment in our students, faculty, staff, healthcare programs, and the many individuals and communities who depend on the College of Health Professions for education, training, and clinical services. We are deeply grateful for this investment in the College of Health Professions and in the future of healthcare education at Ferris State. These improvements will help ensure that our students continue to learn in spaces that reflect the quality, innovation, and excellence of the programs they are preparing to enter.”

The renovations are expected to remodel 67,000 square feet and add 20,000 square feet to the existing Victor F. Spathelf Center for Allied Health, which was originally built in 1979. The building is part of the College of Health Professions, which offers the following programs: Allied Health Sciences, Clinical Laboratory Science, Dental Hygiene, Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Exercise Science, Health Care Systems Administration, Health Information Management, Health Information Technology, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Nursing, Public Health, and Radiography. Additionally, the state’s first Dental Therapy program will be offered through the College of Health Professions beginning in the Fall 2026 semester.

The renovations and expansion will allow the College of Health Professions to better educate its students, provide enhanced clinical training opportunities, and help students develop into highly trained and highly effective healthcare professionals.

State Rep. Tom Kunse, who supported the appropriation, said, "Ferris State University plays a vital role in preparing the next generation of health care professionals. This investment gives students access to modern classrooms and hands-on training while helping ensure our communities have the skilled workforce they need for years to come. When students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, they're better prepared to enter the workforce and serve patients across Michigan. This is a smart investment in our students, our workforce and the future of health care in our state. I'm proud to have worked to secure this funding for Ferris and the communities it serves."

For more information about Ferris State University, visit the school’s website.