Des Moines, Iowa – Crews are nearing completion of the demolition of a former building on the campus of Mercy College of Health Sciences, paving the way for a significant expansion of its nursing program. The project, fueled by a $15 million fundraising campaign launched in February 2025, aims to address the critical nursing shortage facing Iowa and establish Mercy College as a leading institution for healthcare education.
The building being demolished, known as Building 2, had sat vacant since 2018 after being deemed structurally unsound for academic use. Its removal is a crucial step in preparing the site for the latest 24,000-square-foot Joyce Lillis School of Nursing. This expansion represents a substantial investment in the future of healthcare professionals in the region and underscores the growing demand for qualified nurses.
The impetus for the new school and the associated fundraising drive stems from a recognized need to bolster the nursing workforce. According to the Iowa Board of Nursing, the state faces a persistent shortage of registered nurses, a situation exacerbated by an aging population and increasing healthcare demands. Mercy College’s initiative directly responds to this challenge, seeking to increase the number of graduates entering the field.
A Generous Contribution and a Vision for the Future
The new nursing school is named in honor of Joyce Lillis, a registered nurse with nearly four decades of experience, primarily within the MercyOne healthcare system. Lillis, along with her husband Terry, contributed a significant $2.5 million to the project. Their donation reflects a deep commitment to expanding access to nursing education and addressing the critical workforce needs of the state. According to a statement released at the time of the gift, the Lillis family viewed supporting the nursing school as “an easy decision” given the importance of training more nurses to meet the growing demand.
Project Timeline and Key Milestones
The demolition phase of the project is expected to be completed in March 2026. Following demolition, the construction timeline outlines a series of key milestones:
- Footings Poured: Spring 2026
- Tentative Groundbreaking: April 24, 2026
- Grounds and Landscaping Complete: November 2026
- Interior Complete: December 2026
- Final Completion: Spring 2027
These dates represent the college’s current projections, and are subject to change based on construction progress and unforeseen circumstances. The college has not yet released specific details regarding the architectural design of the new building, but has indicated that it will incorporate state-of-the-art learning facilities and simulation labs to provide students with a comprehensive and practical education.
Addressing the Nursing Shortage in Iowa and Beyond
The nursing shortage is a national issue, but Iowa is particularly affected. Data from the Iowa Hospital Association indicates that hospitals across the state are struggling to fill nursing positions, leading to increased workloads for existing staff and potential impacts on patient care. The new Joyce Lillis School of Nursing is intended to alleviate this pressure by increasing the pipeline of qualified nurses entering the workforce. The school aims to attract students not only from Iowa but also from surrounding states, contributing to a broader regional solution to the nursing shortage.
The $15 million fundraising campaign is nearing its goal, and the college continues to solicit donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations. The funds raised will cover not only the construction costs of the new building but also the expenses associated with equipping the facility with modern technology and recruiting and retaining qualified faculty. Mercy College of Health Sciences has positioned this project as central to its mission of becoming the “school of choice” for aspiring healthcare professionals.
The Impact of Increased Nursing Capacity
Expanding nursing education capacity has far-reaching benefits. A larger pool of qualified nurses translates to improved patient outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and a more resilient healthcare system. The presence of a strong nursing school can stimulate economic growth in the surrounding community, attracting students, faculty, and healthcare professionals. The Joyce Lillis School of Nursing is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare in Iowa and beyond.
The college’s commitment to addressing the nursing shortage aligns with broader national efforts to strengthen the healthcare workforce. Federal and state governments have implemented various initiatives to support nursing education and recruitment, including loan repayment programs, scholarships, and grants. Mercy College’s project complements these efforts by providing a dedicated facility and a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the challenges and rewards of a nursing career.
As the demolition phase nears completion, anticipation is building for the groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for April 24, 2026. This event will mark a significant milestone in the development of the Joyce Lillis School of Nursing and symbolize Mercy College’s commitment to shaping the future of healthcare education. The next major update expected from the college will likely be a detailed announcement regarding the architectural plans and the selection of a construction firm.
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