Invest in the Future
Nursing, Natural Sciences, Biotechnology Building (Video)
Nursing School Grad Saves Dean's Life at Commencement (WMCTV / Fox13 / WREG / CNN)
Southwest has undertaken the largest fund-raising effort in its history -- a $20 million Major Gifts Campaign, Southwest & You, Investing in the Future. This campaign will raise funds for four initiatives which will not be funded by traditional sources:
Nursing, Natural Sciences, and Biotechnology Expansion -- $16.75 million goal
Southwest has outgrown its 8,495 square-foot-nursing facility and must turn away a significant number of students every semester. A new facility would house an expanded nursing program, as well as new classrooms and laboratories for the Natural Sciences courses which form the foundation of the nursing curriculum. The facility would also be home to the state’s first Associate of Applied Science degree program, training Biotechnology Technicians to assist researchers in the rapidly expanding biomedical and bioscience research and production fields.
Exterior Design
The building will be a three-story structure designed around an open atrium, with a Natural Sciences and Biotechnology wing on the west side and the Nursing wing on the east.
First Floor Concept
The Nursing labs on the first floor will be designed as simulated hospital environments. The Microbiology and Biotechnology labs will be adjacent to facilitate lab support for these related experimental environments. The auditorium will be used by all disciplines and can also host numerous community events such as career exploration days for high school students.
Second Floor Concept
Computer labs for self-paced skills enrichment activities, as well as space dedicated to both group and individual tutoring, will be easily accessible to students in all courses of study. Each computer lab will contain up to 50 workstations. Faculty offices and student lounges will also be readily accessible.
Third Floor Concept
Classrooms and lecture rooms will vary in size to efficiently accommodate both introductory and advanced courses. The 21st century classrooms will include Internet connectivity at each seat.
Scholarship Endowment -- $1 million goal
In response to rising tuition and fees, the Southwest Tennessee Community College Foundation is seeking funds to increase the number of scholarships awarded. Scholarships are needed to assist our typical student – on average, a 27-year-old who is attending part-time and must balance school with other demands such as work and family.
Enhanced Technology -- $1 million goal
New instructional technologies have the power to transform the traditional classroom and expand access to education. Technological enhancements are essential to maintain the effectiveness and relevance of Southwest’s program offerings. Improvements will also enhance student-teacher interaction through such tools as interactive video, collaboration tools and course management systems.
Endowed Fund for Professional Development -- $1 million goal
Funds from this initiative will ensure that Southwest faculty and staff are aware of developments in their fields, as well as innovative approaches to instruction. Special emphasis will be placed on development opportunities that promote critical thinking, problem solving, leadership development, collaborative learning and team building.
