Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders announced $3 million for the construction of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff’s Health and Wellness Center.
The project will be part of the UAPB Student Engagement Center, according to a spokesperson.
“As a Pine Bluff native, I know how important UAPB is to the success of that city and our entire state,” Sanders said in Friday’s news release.
“I’ve been proud to support the school throughout my governorship and today, we are doubling down on that investment by providing $3 million for a new Health and Wellness Center. UAPB is our state’s foremost HBCU and deserves support for its unique and critical mission,” Sanders said.
This funding will provide support for the construction of the Health and Wellness Center. The $36,000,000 facility has been made possible through a combination of funding sources, including a dedicated student fee, Title III funds and bonds, ensuring that the center meets the highest standards of quality and functionality for the benefit of the entire student body, according to the release.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
“This is great news for UAPB,” said State Speaker of the House Rep. Matthew J. Shepherd. “Prioritizing health and wellness at UAPB is not just beneficial for the individuals on campus, but it also has a ripple effect that extends to the broader community. I am proud to have championed this funding, which I know was a top priority on campus. I thank the governor for her diligence and leadership in making this a reality, and I thank my legislative colleagues for supporting this worthy endeavor.”
“The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff extends its gratitude to Gov. Sanders and the Arkansas General Assembly for their commitment to addressing our campus needs,” said Andrea Stewart, UAPB’s interim chancellor. “The Health and Wellness Center will provide essential support for both the physical and mental well-being of our students. This investment is not only a boost to student well-being but a vital step in enhancing overall student success and engagement.”
The new state-of-the-art facility is designed to be the heart of campus life and will offer a variety of services and co-curricular programs to support and enhance the student experience, including a student success center that provides academic support and resources, dining options and a comprehensive career services hub to guide students toward their professional goals.
Additionally, the building will house a new auditorium and multi-purpose facility that will host various events, from lectures to performances.
The university has a critical need to upgrade its facilities to serve students from the Delta and surrounding areas. The new Health and Wellness Center project will help address that need, according to the release.