Missouri State University’s McQueary College of Health and Human Services celebrated the opening of the Mercy Athletic Training Lab on Sept. 9.

The facility is part of the completed Phase II renovations inside Ann Kampeter Health Sciences Hall and was made possible by a donation from Mercy.

This transformed space allows for an immersive learning environment. It gives athletic training students greater opportunities to learn, practice and prepare for their future careers.

In total, the renovations to the academic building at Cherry Street and Kimbrough Avenue took six years, with a two-year gap between the major phases. Missouri State dedicated Phase I in 2022.

“We’re deeply grateful to Mercy for this gift. Their investment reflects exactly the kind of partnership that moves Missouri State forward,” said Brent Dunn, vice president for university advancement. “Our athletic training students are now learning in a space built for real-world success, and that benefits the entire Springfield community they’ll one day serve.”

Key upgrades

There were several improvements made during Phase II.

New and updated technology was installed throughout the building. These included integrated electronic records in the Collaborative Care Clinic, audiovisual layouts and display systems for classrooms, and advanced audiology equipment in the speech-language research areas.

For accessibility and safety, the project added a new fire alarm system with voice evacuation/annunciation capabilities, accessible doors, electronic card access with activity logging and additional security cameras.

New furniture was installed throughout renovated classrooms, the clinic, student spaces and offices.

“This renovation gives our students an environment that mirrors the clinical settings they’ll work in after graduation,” said McQueary College Dean Dr. Mark Smith. “From updated technology to expanded clinical space, every improvement here was made with our students’ preparation and our patients’ care in mind.”

Students now have additional study and collaboration areas, modernized classrooms and labs, and expanded hands-on clinical environments. There are also improved teaching, research and office spaces that strengthen collaboration across the college’s programs.

Continuing a legacy of care

Previously called the Professional Building, Kampeter Hall has a long history of healthcare in the Springfield community. Originally a two-story building, it gained additional floors through later renovations.

Before becoming part of Missouri State, portions of the building housed physicians’ offices and Krank’s Drug Store.

Today, that legacy continues. The building has been transformed into a place where future health professionals learn and train while providing health services to the community through the Collaborative Care Clinic.

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