The Knox Regional Health Science Education Center is now open and houses health science programs offered by both Roane State and the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Knoxville.
Roane State Community College's Knox Regional Health Science Education Center has received a financial contribution from local couple James and Marilyn Reafsnyder of Lenoir City. The new health education center recently opened and houses health science programs that are offered by Roane State Community College as well as Tennessee College of Applied Technology Knoxville.
According to an article on Roane State Community College’s website, Marilyn Reafsnyder explained her and her husband’s desire to help fund the Knox Regional Health Science Education Center. She is quoted as saying, “As members of an aging population in this area, my husband and I are committed to supporting educational initiatives that help train future health science students to meet a growing need. Recently, we toured the Simulation Center and were amazed to see the many ways it provides learning via classroom, lab, and simulation experiences – all under one roof. The forethought of creating such a facility is indeed a tribute to all those who have made it happen.”
James added, “Just being a part of supporting such an historical healthcare initiative for East Tennessee is exciting for us. We hope others will contribute as well, especially by helping provide scholarships – such an important part of Roane State Foundation’s THRIVE campaign. This is a legacy for our grandchildren.”
The new 130,000-square-foot facility features a first-of-its-kind in the state Simulation Center and supports programs such as nursing, EMS, and medical laboratory technology. Among the next courses to move into the Knox Regional Health Science Education Center are polysomnography and respiratory therapy courses, as well as continuing education courses for current healthcare professionals to maintain their licensure. In the near future, the college also expects to launch diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound), echocardiography, and neurodiagnostic technology programs.
Roane State Foundation Executive Director Scott Niermann said, “This gift will help us ensure all students have access to an excellent health science education. We look forward to seeing these funds support scholarships for the next generation of healthcare professionals. As our fundraising campaign continues, we welcome the support of citizens across the region who value a healthy, thriving community.”
For more information about Roane State Community College, visit the school’s website.