Jacksonville University Enhances Healthcare Education, Completes Reid Medical Science Center Renovations

With gleaming new laboratories and state-of-the-art equipment now ready to welcome students, Jacksonville University celebrated the completion of its Reid Medical Science Center renovation project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a milestone in continued commitment to excellence inhealthcare education.

Since it opened in 1990, the Reid Medical Science Center has served as home to Jacksonville University's comprehensive range of healthcare and sciences programs. The renovations support the university's expanding nursing offerings, including the recently launched accelerated Master of Science in Nursing program - the first of its kind in the region.

"The completion of the Reid Medical Science Center renovations represents a pivotal moment in Jacksonville University's transformation into a comprehensive healthcare education hub," said President Tim Cost. "Combined with our partnership with LECOM at Jacksonville University - the region's first four-year medical school - and partnerships with Mayo Clinic, Baptist Health, Ascension St. Vincent's, UF Health, Brooks Rehabilitation, and Florida Blue, among others, we're creating a pathway where students can pursue their healthcare careers from undergraduate studies through medical school, all while serving the critical healthcare needs of Northeast Florida."

Updated laboratories, contemporary finishes, new furnishings, fixtures, and cutting-edge equipment have transformed the facility to enhance applied learning and discovery for students in nursing and other health sciences programs.

"Our students now have access to laboratories and learning spaces that truly prepare them for what comes next," said Dr. Chris Corbo, Dean of the Linda Berry Stein College of Arts and Sciences. "In the sciences, students are conducting research with the same advanced equipment they'll encounter in graduate school and industry. In nursing and the health sciences, students are mastering the foundational clinical sciences while engaging in applied, hands-on learning that connects directly to their future careers. These facilities not only expand what our students can achieve but also create spaces where faculty and students can collaborate closely - advancing discovery, mentorship, and innovation together."

The $3 million project was funded through the state's GROW Florida Nursing Program and completed by Auld & White Constructors with architectural services provided by kasper architects + associates. It aligns with JU's broader strategic investments in healthcare education infrastructure, including recent upgrades to the main library featuring 3-D healthcare technology spaces.

"This renovation, made possible through generous funding from the state, represents more than a revitalized building, upgraded labs and modern equipment," said Dr. Sherri Jackson, Interim Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs at Jacksonville University. "It symbolizes our shared investment in the future of healthcare, in the students who will become tomorrow's scientists, nurses, and medical professionals, and in the community we serve. We are deeply grateful to our state partners - your support has made this transformation possible."

Construction is well underway on LECOM at Jacksonville University, a partnership that combines national expertise in medical education with leadership and strength in healthcare and applied sciences. JU undergrads will have the opportunity to continue on as LECOM medical students, with the inaugural class arriving as planned in August 2026.

"The Reid Science Building will serve as a hub for collaborative research by faculty from LECOM and Jacksonville University," said Dr. Richard Terry, Chief Operating Officer of LECOM. "This partnership combines the strengths of both institutions to expand research capacity, foster interdisciplinary projects, and accelerate translational work that benefits patients. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration creates and confident it will advance medical research and innovation throughout the Jacksonville region."

The Reid Medical Science Center renovation is part of Jacksonville University's multi-year investment strategy in healthcare education, positioning the institution as a leader in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals for Northeast Florida and beyond.