The academic year at St. John’s University began with the grand opening of the St. Vincent Health Sciences Center on September 5, 2024, marking a significant step forward in health sciences education. Faculty, administrators, and staff warmly welcomed students into the state-of-the-art facility for their first classes.
Under a bright September sun, the $106 million St. Vincent Health Sciences Center on the Queens, NY, campus stood as a beacon of modern education. The expansive 70,000-square-foot building, characterized by its sleek glass walls, reflected the excitement of the day. Sunlight streamed through the large windows, illuminating the interior and offering views of the vibrant green Great Lawn, as students and faculty explored the new spaces.
Inside, the center revealed spacious, technologically advanced classrooms, cutting-edge research labs, and comfortable study areas designed to foster collaboration and innovation.
“This new building underscores our deep commitment to providing an exceptional education for our students,” stated Rev. Brian J. Shanley, O.P., President of St. John’s University. “It stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone involved in bringing this project to life and signifies the continued growth of St. John’s.”
Brian Baumer, Associate Vice President, Campus Facilities and Services, expressed his pride as he observed students entering the new building. “The St. Vincent Health Sciences Center represents a transformative achievement for the facilities department at St. John’s. It’s a state-of-the-art, sustainable, and efficient environment designed to promote educational excellence,” Mr. Baumer noted. “This modern, energy-efficient building, equipped with geothermal technology, advanced labs, and adaptable learning spaces, showcases our team’s dedication to creating an innovative and inspiring campus. We are proud to have set a new standard and are eager for future opportunities to innovate and inspire across the campus.”
Anne Y. F. Lin ’84P, ’86Pharm.D., FNAP, Dean and Professor, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, shared her enthusiasm, “The most rewarding aspect is witnessing the building become vibrant with health sciences students in classes and labs, learning and connecting with each other. Their excitement is palpable as they now have a dedicated space to learn collaboratively.”
Esther Babalola, a junior nursing student from Hewlett, NY, wearing St. John’s nursing scrubs, has watched the center’s construction progress. “It’s truly amazing!” she exclaimed. “My first class was in the simulation lab, using all the new equipment. It’s so exciting to have such a hands-on learning environment.”
For almost a century, St. John’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences has been a leading institution in health-care education in the New York metropolitan area. The reintroduction of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in 2022 marked a significant investment in the health sciences at St. John’s. The program has seen remarkable growth, with nursing applications increasing from 68 in 2022 to 2,800 for Fall 2024, reflecting the high demand for skilled health-care professionals.
Francine Laterza, Ed.D., R.N., PNP, CNE, Chair, Department of Nursing, and Associate Professor/Industry Professional, emphasized the importance of the new center for the nursing program. “The St. Vincent Health Sciences Center provides our nursing students with cutting-edge educational resources for skill development and simulation, leading to a more effective and engaging learning experience. The simulation center allows students to practice and master essential skills in a safe, realistic setting. The center’s design promotes collaboration across health sciences programs, effectively preparing students for real-world health-care environments. Our new facility enables us to expand enrollment and programs, addressing the increasing regional demand for qualified nurses. The St. Vincent Health Sciences Center is a major investment in the future of nursing education at St. John’s, offering an exceptional learning environment and preparing students for successful health-care careers.”
Beyond nursing, the building also houses the University’s Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Physician Assistant program. Physician Assistants are essential licensed clinicians practicing across various medical specialties.
Amanda Centrone, a sophomore PA student from Mahopac, NY, and Binaca Piva from São Paolo, Brazil, both studying to become Physician Assistants, shared their first impressions of the new facilities. “The building is fantastic, with open spaces and brand-new learning areas, technology, and equipment that will greatly enhance our studies,” Ms. Centrone commented.
“Being in the same building as students from other health sciences programs is a significant advantage,” added Ms. Piva. “In our future careers, we will collaborate with doctors, nurses, and radiological science professionals. This interdisciplinary environment is excellent preparation for our professional lives.”
The garden level features a new, advanced radiography laboratory, a crucial enhancement for the Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences program. St. John’s recognizes the importance of state-of-the-art facilities in radiologic sciences education and is committed to offering students unparalleled learning opportunities that reflect the latest advancements in medical imaging technology. The new lab is equipped with cutting-edge digital radiography systems, comparable to those in leading New York-area hospitals and medical centers.
Sandra Beysolow, Ph.D., PA-C, DFAAPA, Associate Professor and Chair Department of Health Professions, highlighted the benefits of the advanced technology. “Training students using the latest technology ensures our graduates are highly competitive for careers in various health professions, including physician assistants, radiologic scientists, and clinical laboratory scientists. ”
As the first day concluded and the sun set over the Manhattan skyline, Simon G. Møller, Ph.D., Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, reflected on the day’s success. “This is just the beginning,” he stated. “The future of health sciences at St. John’s University is exceptionally bright.”
