Nazareth receives $1 million in federal funding for Smyth Hall renovations to enhance new PA program
The ability of Nazareth University’s physician assistant master’s program, launched in January, to address the healthcare workforce gap and improve access to quality care has been boosted with the receipt of $1 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. The funding is for Smyth Hall renovations that are key in creating state-of-the-art facilities for PA students and for other advanced practice provider programs. Nazareth’s physician assistant master’s program began in January 2026. A women’s health nurse practitioner program is targeted to begin this fall.
The $1 million grant funds the second part of a multi-phase, comprehensive facility enhancement plan to create an accessible state-of-the-art learning and clinical space with leading-edge technology and simulation to prepare healthcare professionals.
“This funding will support Nazareth’s efforts to address the healthcare workforce shortage, improving access to quality care, and reducing healthcare costs,” said Cathy Rasmussen, Ph.D., dean of Nazareth’s College of Interprofessional Health & Human Services. “This work ensures New York is a leader in patient care, healthcare innovation, and education. Our new programs will prepare highly-skilled professionals for our local and regional healthcare systems, and will foster outstanding care through interprofessional education and collaboration. We greatly appreciate the assistance of Senators Schumer and Gillibrand in helping to secure these funds.”
Nazareth’s funding was part of $9.6 million in federal funding announced on February 4 by Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for critical projects in the Finger Lakes region. The senators said this federal investment will also support community projects.
“This nearly $10 million federal investment will support critical community projects in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region. From Nazareth University addressing the healthcare workforce gap to constructing new indoor upgrades to the Rochester Public Market for shoppers and farm-sellers, and driving the tourism economy by transforming the former Auditorium theater into a modern world-class home for Rochester Broadway Theater League productions, we are building a safer and better future for New Yorkers throughout the Rochester-Finger Lakes region,” said Senator Schumer. “These projects will help local institutions support economic growth, while keeping our community safe and creating new opportunities. I will always fight to deliver more federal resources for institutions in the Rochester-Finger Lakes region to support the community’s needs.”
Contact
Julie Long | Chief PR Officer | jlong2@naz.edu | (585) 389-2456 | (585) 781-8186 (cell)
Nazareth University is an inclusive community of inspired learners, educators, and changemakers who for 100 years have been driven by a bold commitment to action, empathy, equity, and leading innovation for the common good. Impact experiences are at the heart of a Nazareth education, preparing each student to discover within themselves the potential to cultivate positive change in their life's work, in any career field, and in a world that is constantly evolving and infinitely interconnected.
Our broad academic offerings present a range of study options typical of larger universities, yet achieved in our supportive campus culture. Nearly 2,100 undergrad and 600 graduate students enroll in degree and certificate programs and engage in collaborative, transformative learning experiences, preparing for the professions and society of today and tomorrow. In a learning community that purposefully integrates liberal arts and professional programs, Nazareth University graduates are able to launch a lifetime of impactful leadership in communities and workplaces near and far.
