The partnership will enhance emergency medical services for the tri-state area through ambulance dispatch from Lincoln Memorial University-owned property, leading to improved service reach and faster response times.
Lincoln Memorial University and Covenant Health have formed a partnership that will enhance emergency medical services in Tennessee, Virginia, and Kentucky. The partnership includes Covenant Health leasing Lincoln Memorial University-owned space in Cumberland Gap for its ambulance services, which will enhance emergency services through faster response times and an improved service reach. It will also give Lincoln Memorial University students the opportunity to work alongside EMS professionals to gain experience in the medical field.
According to an article on Lincoln Memorial University's website, David Laws, the university’s Vice President for Facilities Planning, Management, and Safety Services, was quoted as saying of the new arrangement, “This partnership reflects LMU’s long standing commitment to serving the tri state region. We are helping strengthen emergency services today while preparing the next generation of professionals who will safeguard our communities in the future. It is an exciting moment for LMU and an even bigger win for the people of this region.”
The transition to offering Covenant Health ambulance services out of Lincoln Memorial University property began on December 1, 2025. The location in Cumberland Gap puts the ambulance dispatch in an ideal location, nearer to rural communities, mountain communities, and major roadways. This change in location will help the ambulance service get to their destinations more quickly, improving response times.
Also included in the partnership is more opportunity for Lincoln Memorial University students to receive hands-on healthcare training. It is planned that specialized EMS training programs and certifications will become available on campus through Covenant Health, and that students in the university’s nursing, pre medicine, paramedic pathways, and health sciences programs will be able to shadow Covenant Health EMS workers, volunteer, and attend workshops.
Additionally, there are plans to construct a helicopter pad at the newly leased LMU property, further increasing the reach of Covenant Health’s emergency medical services.
Jason McConnell, the university's president, said of the collaboration, “This is LMU living out its mission in real time. By opening our doors and leasing this space to Covenant Health, we are strengthening emergency response for countless families across three states. We are also giving our students new, exciting opportunities to train with EMS professionals, volunteer, and learn through powerful, real-world experiences. This partnership will change lives, improve safety, and bring a new level of readiness to our tri state region. I could not be more excited for what this means for our communities.”
For more information about Lincoln Memorial University, visit the school’s website.