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Rising to the challenge for a healthier, wealthier Kentucky

Join us in transforming Kentucky’s health landscape by supporting the Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building. It is more than a new facility; it embodies our resolve to tackle the pressing health issues facing communities across Kentucky. 

Nearly nine out of 10 counties in Kentucky are classified as health care deserts, where residents struggle to access necessary medical services. Unfortunately, these areas lack adequate providers, hospitals or health care infrastructure, making it difficult for people to receive essential care. This lack of health resources not only affects individual wellness but also impacts workforce participation, where Kentucky ranks 46th nationally. If people are sick, they can’t work. Thus, creating a healthy workforce is key to economic prosperity.

Students in a lecture hall with an instructor at the front of the hall.

Students seated at tables watching an instructor demonstrate with a patient in a hospital bed.

Increasing training capacity by 1,200 students

To forge a path toward better health and economic stability, we must increase the pipeline of health professionals. The Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building will serve as a hub for the Colleges of Medicine, Nursing, Health Sciences and Public Health, along with the Center for Interprofessional and Community Health Education. 

This larger, best-in-class space will increase our training capacity by 1,200 students, which translates simply to more health professionals armed with the skills to create a healthier Kentucky for all. 

+460 College of Health Sciences Students

A 30% increase in enrollment capacity.

+62 College of Medicine Students

A 44% increase in enrollment capacity.

+350 College of Nursing Students

A 100% increase in enrollment capacity

+350 College of Public Health Students

A 100% increase in enrollment capacity.


Meeting the demand for health professionals

As we anticipate a projected shortage of 20,000 qualified health professionals by 2027, according to the Kentucky Future Skills Report, this new building will greatly increase the number of care providers ready to serve our communities. 

The 520,000 square-foot space* is designed to foster teamwork and collaboration, reflecting our commitment to innovative, interdisciplinary education. 

*Square footage is an estimate and subject to change during construction

Floor layout of the Health Education Building
A student working on a skills lab at a desk while an instructor watches over them.

Leave a lasting legacy

By supporting the Michael D. Rankin MD Health Education Building, you can create a lasting impact in health education and be recognized for your contributions to shaping the future of health care in Kentucky. Every gift, regardless of size, plays a vital role in transforming health care for our state.

See naming opportunities

Join us in transforming Kentucky

Philanthropy will be integral to the success of this building. You can make your mark on a project that will echo across a healthier, wealthier Kentucky for generations. 

Our Promise to Kentucky

The student commons of the Health Education Building with lounge-style seating and tall, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Questions? Contact:

Mike Harders
Associate Vice President of Philanthropy for UK HealthCare and UK’s Health Colleges
mikeharders@uky.edu
859-562-0992