U.S. Rep. Frank Mrvan joined university officials on Feb. 12 to celebrate federal funding the university recently received.

The $1 million in federal funding supports the university’s College of Nursing and Health Professions. The money will go toward updating the Simulation and Experiential Learning Center.

“Congratulations to Valparaiso University for your dedicated efforts to secure this federal funding award to modernize the Skills Lab and Simulation Center,” Mrvan said in a press release. “I appreciate your commitment to prepare students with knowledge and skills to obtain vital careers in the health care profession.”

The learning center provides students with virtual experiences to practice their skills before working with real patients. The simulators are capable of exhibiting a range of symptoms. The hands-on, simulated scenarios require quick decision-making and technical skills. They also help students develop skills such as talking to patients and listening to feedback.

Other speakers at the event included José Padilla, the university’s president, and Gail Kost, clinical associate professor and director of the virtual learning center. Students also attended the event.

“I want to thank Congressman Mrvan for being here, for being a leader on health care, and for being a leader in this Region, period. This would not have happened if not for him,” Padilla said. “The demand for health care has never been higher. We have to meet that need, and that’s what we’re trying to do at the College of Nursing and Health Professions.”

The $1 million in federal funding is part of over $20.5 million allocated for projects in Northwest Indiana.

The university’s College of Nursing and Health Professions was created over 50 years ago. In 2021, U.S. News & World Report named the nursing program as one of the nation’s best. The college has 11 graduate and undergraduate programs, including nursing, occupational therapy, exercise science and health administration.