Construction Begins on Allen College’s Simulation Lab Expansion

November 10, 2025

WATERLOO – Construction is underway on the expansion of the simulation lab by Allen College – UnityPoint Health.

The expansion will add more than 8,000 square feet to the south side of McElroy Hall and essentially quadruple the current lab space. The addition will enhance simulated learning for the students in nursing and health sciences programs.

The project broke ground on Monday and is expected to be completed in 2026.

“With the growth of simulation education in nursing, we’ve outgrown our space,” says Dr. Ashley Ollendieck, a member of the nursing faculty and certified healthcare simulation educator. “This simulation project will provide a more realistic, hands-on learning environment for us to train our future healthcare workforce. With this expansion, we’ll be able to accommodate many more students and integrate a simulation experience that’s proven to produce superior graduates.”

“The development of our new simulation space marks a transformative milestone for Allen College. By creating the most immersive and realistic learning environment possible, we’re equipping our students and graduates with the skills, confidence and experience they need to excel in today’s dynamic healthcare landscape,” says Dr. Jared Seliger, Allen College’s President.

The goal is to fully fund this expansion through private donations. To date, Allen Foundation has received major gifts from the Van. G. Miller Family Charitable Foundation ($1 million), Pauline R. Barrett Charitable Foundation ($500,000), Jim & Judy Fogdall ($500,000), Mike McBride ($300,000), and Gail and David Nielsen ($100,000).

To learn more about this impactful project, or to make a gift, contact the Allen Foundation at (319) 235-3960 or visit https://uph.link/WLGive.