Allen College Sim Lab Expansion Receives $250,000 Grant from R.J. McElroy Trust

March 10, 2026

WATERLOO – Allen College is receiving a $250,000 grant from the R.J. McElroy Trust to support its simulation lab expansion currently underway.

The 8,000-square-foot expansion on the south side of Allen College’s McElroy Hall will be a state-of-the-art learning experience for students in nursing and health sciences programs. The project will quadruple the current lab space, while renovating an existing space in the hall for a relocated skills lab.

“This project perfectly aligns with what's needed for students, the Cedar Valley and Mac's commitment to education,” said Megan McKenzie, Executive Director of R.J. McElroy Trust. “We’re excited to support the innovative work of Allen College and its Sim Lab expansion."

The goal is to fully fund the sim lab expansion through private donations. With the grant from the R.J. McElroy Trust, the Allen Foundation has raised $3.7 million toward its goal of $4 million. To learn more about this impactful project, or how to make a gift, contact the Allen Foundation at (319) 235-3960 or visit give.unitypoint.org/simlab.

Photo: Construction continues on Allen College’s $4 million simulation lab expansion project, which is expected to be complete by August.