The grant, which will fund building infrastructure improvements, was awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration.
“Our students will benefit from this investment as this will equip us to extend our offerings and help our students further succeed,” said Michelle Millen, dean of academic affairs in health sciences and emergency services, in the release.
The details
The funding award is expected to create 4,000 jobs as well as expand programming for “high-demand” health care professions, the release states. Collin College offers over 200 degrees and certificates across a variety of professions, including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
The project will convert existing classroom space into health science labs that will offer students hands-on training opportunities. The construction work will also incorporate energy-efficient elements, according to the release.
“This expansion is not only about physical growth; it's a testament to our commitment of nurturing the future of health care, expanding the horizons of health care education, and ensuring that our students receive the best resources while at Collin College,” Millen said.
The project will contribute to the organization’s goal of enhancing its facilities and educational offerings, as well as an ongoing facility renovation initiative that began after the ice storms in 2021, the release states.
The grant funding comes from the 2023 Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, which allotted $483 million in assistance funds for areas affected by major disaster declarations during 2021-22 for natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires and flooding, according to the release.
Quote of note
“This investment will provide significant opportunities for Collin College students and the North Texas region,” Collin College District President Neil Matkin said in the release. “We are sincerely grateful to the U.S. Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration for entrusting us with this financial investment to help expand and strengthen the health care programs and training resources at Collin College.”
