WI Governor Helps Dedicate Carroll's Expanded College of Health Sciences Facility

A strong healthcare workforce starts with access to exceptional education, hands-on training and community-centered care. This summer, Carroll University took a major step forward in all three areas with the dedication of its newly expanded College of Health Sciences building, a transformative project designed to address Wisconsin’s growing demand for healthcare professionals.

The significance of the project was underscored by the attendance of Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers, who joined Waukesha Mayor Alicia Halvensleben, State Representative Scott Allen, Alderman Erik Helgestad, members of the Carroll University Board of Trustees, healthcare partners, donors, alumni and community leaders to celebrate the building’s official opening. Their presence highlighted the important role Carroll plays in preparing the next generation of healthcare providers and expanding access to care throughout the region, as well as celebrating the receipt of a $2 million WI Department of Administration’s Non-State Grant.

By renovating the former Randall Elementary School, Carroll has created a modern, state-of-the-art 61,000 sq. ft. facility that centralizes two of its no-fee community clinics while providing dedicated learning environments for several of its fastest-growing healthcare programs. The facility supports students pursuing careers in graduate Exercise Physiology, Occupational Therapy, Pathologist Assistant and Physician Assistant programs, undergraduate Experience courses as well the Thronson Animal Behavior Center.

Leading the vision for the project was Dr. Tom Pahnke, dean of The Von Hoff College of Health Sciences and clinical associate professor, doctor of physical therapy program.

“An opportunity like this doesn’t come very often,” Pahnke said. “We were able to design and create learning spaces specifically for the needs of Carroll’s students and programs, making this the best possible environment for education, innovation and care.”

Meeting a Growing Need

The expansion comes at a critical time. Carroll’s health sciences programs have experienced extraordinary growth over the past decade.

“When we moved into the Graduate Center about 10 years ago, it was built for approximately 220 students,” Pahnke explained. “Today, enrollment in our graduate health sciences programs has more than doubled.”

That growth reflects a broader workforce challenge facing healthcare systems across Wisconsin and the nation. Carroll continues to respond by expanding high-demand programs such as Physician Assistant Studies, one of the university’s most sought-after programs, and the emerging Pathologists’ Assistant program, one of fewer than 20 programs of its kind in the country.

“The Pathologists’ Assistant program uses a tremendous amount of technology,” Pahnke said. “Through this renovation, we were able to build a laboratory equipped with state-of-the-art technology that represents the future of the profession.”

Designed for Learning. Built for Impact.

The complete renovation transformed the former elementary school into a cutting-edge healthcare education center featuring:

• The Carroll Therapeutic Abilities Clinic (TAC).
• The Carroll University Rehabilitative Exercise (CURE) Clinic.
• Dedicated classrooms and labs for Physician Assistant, Pathologists’ Assistant, Occupational Therapy and Clinical Exercise Physiology programs.
• A simulated apartment laboratory where Occupational Therapy students develop skills to help patients navigate everyday activities such as eating, bathing and dressing.

Beyond supporting student success, the facility strengthens Carroll’s commitment to serving the community. Since 2008, the Therapeutic Abilities Clinic has provided no-cost physical therapy services to individuals facing barriers to care. Established in 2018, the CURE Clinic offers personalized exercise interventions that complement physician-directed treatment plans. Together, these clinics deliver vital services while giving students invaluable hands-on experience.

Investing in Wisconsin’s Future

As healthcare workforce shortages continue to affect communities across the state, Carroll’s expanded College of Health Sciences positions the university to educate and graduate more skilled, practice-ready professionals.

The dedication ceremony served as a powerful reminder that this project extends far beyond a new building. It represents an investment in students, patients and the future of healthcare in Wisconsin. With support from state leaders, healthcare partners, donors and the community, Carroll continues to strengthen its role as a leader in preparing the healthcare workforce that communities need today and for generations to come. Learn more at carrollu.edu/academics/health-sciences and see photos from the dedication on Flickr.