With the region and state of Kansas facing a healthcare worker shortage, Emporia State University answered the call. Kahler Slater along with Clark Huesemann recently completed the new 32,000 square foot Nursing and Student Wellness Center which opened in January 2026. Located at the former Central Morse Hall site, the facility houses the nursing program, simulation labs, and student health and counseling services. It represents the first new academic building on campus in 45 years.

The new facility will significantly enhance the academic experience for students and allow the University to expand and enhance its nursing program, bringing students and faculty to the center of campus and provide state-of-the-art amenities. The building includes flexible nursing classrooms and faculty offices, advanced clinical and simulation labs, 11-bed skills and practice labs, student study and lounge areas. The project was completed entirely through private donations, including gifts from local foundations and individual benefactors, without bonds or university debt.