(MURRAY, Ky.) – Murray State University marked a significant construction milestone on Oct. 30 with a topping out ceremony for Jackson Hall, the new School of Nursing and Health Professions Building.
The ceremony, which celebrates the placement of the final beam atop the structure, brought together university leadership, construction workers, and supporters to honor those involved in the $45.5 million project funded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Guests gathered in the lower-level parking lot north of the construction site on N. 16th Street to witness the beam being placed on the northwest corner of the building, which is scheduled to open for the fall 2026 semester.
University President Dr. Ron Patterson emphasized the building’s importance for future healthcare professionals. “Our topping out ceremony was a shared opportunity to recognize all who have been involved in this wonderful project, as this new building will benefit our current and future students as the next generation of healthcare professionals,” he said.
The state-of-the-art facility will feature expanded laboratory space, larger classrooms, simulation areas, collaborative spaces for students and faculty, and the campus health clinic. The building represents a significant upgrade from Mason Hall, which has housed the nursing program for decades.
Dr. Dina Byers, dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions, expressed pride in the project while acknowledging the legacy of Mason Hall. “We are growing and have the opportunity to expand the way that we teach and collaborate with students and each other. Jackson Hall will provide that special place,” she said.
The building is named after President Emeritus Dr. Bob Jackson and his wife Karen, who attended the ceremony. “We are very excited about the new School of Nursing and Health Professions building which will be a tremendous asset to Murray State University as we work to serve the nursing and health professions needs of our region and state,” Dr. Jackson said.
Assistant Vice President of Facilities Management Jason Youngblood said attendees were able to tour parts of the structure during the event. He noted that crews are working to get the building under roof before winter to continue interior work.
The university is seeking donors and corporate partners for naming opportunities within the facility. More information is available at murraystate.edu/construction.
