Dr. F. King Alexander, president of LSU, joined the administration of LSU Eunice and Lafayette General Health to cut the ribbon on the newly renovated classroom and clinical laboratory space at Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital for LSUE’s nursing and surgical technology programs on Jan. 10.
“This is such a great example of what working with Lafayette General has done, and it shows the rest of the state what can be done by working with our universities and so many of our talented students keeping them right here in the area,” said Alexander during his remarks before the ribbon cutting.
The $400,000 renovation of 7,700 square feet on the first floor of the Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital’s Medical Office Building established laboratory space for both LSUE’s nursing and surgical technology program, classroom space, a computer lab, faculty offices, and a student lounge.
“Lafayette General Health has a long history of partnering with LSU to train the next generation of physicians, nurses, leaders, and employees. Our most recent affiliation with LSU Eunice creates a proactive opportunity to fulfill the dire need for nurses locally and statewide, and it is a natural extension of the partnership that began decades ago. I am proud that we continue to work together to prepare highly-skilled and compassionate caregivers,” said Patrick W. Gandy Jr., executive vice president of LGH and chief executive officer of Lafayette General Medical Center.
Cutting the ribbon on the new facilities were Dr. William Crowe, interim chancellor of LSU Eunice; Dr. Henry Kaufman IV, surgical oncology specialist; Becki Benoit, vice president of LGH and chief nursing officer; Patrick W. Gandy Jr., executive vice president of LGH and chief executive officer of Lafayette General Medical Center, and Alexander.
LSU Eunice teaches nursing clinical courses and surgical technology courses at the location. The first nursing class to use the facility graduated in December and the first surgical technology class will graduate this May.
LSUE offers associate degrees, certificates, and transfer programs including nursing, diagnostic medical sonography, respiratory care, radiologic technology, and surgical technology.