BWBR was hired by the University of St. Thomas (UST) to provide overall space programming for the new College of Health, including a new nursing program and a conceptual design for a new building to house the entire College. The College of Health is intentional about its fresh approach to health care and attracting a more diverse generation of professionals into the health care industry. With a goal of treating the whole person mentally, physically, socially, and spiritually, students learn to treat a patient’s health conditions as well as respect various traditions and cultures.

After reviewing current needs, but a new building site and full funding not yet available, UST decided to pursue Phase 1 of the overall master plan by renovating the existing Summit Building. This first space for UST nursing students features a multi-million-dollar simulation lab with state-of-the-art robotic patient mannequins and control rooms. Additional specialty program spaces include a birthing room, pediatric intensive care room, hospice suite, and active learning classrooms, among others. The building also includes space for the School of Social Work.