UJ Opens Health Sciences and Graduate Center in Phoenix with $7 Million Gift Announcement
PHOENIX, Ariz., February 3, 2026 – University of Jamestown (UJ) marked a historic moment on Jan. 30th with the grand opening of its Health Sciences and Graduate Center in Phoenix, Arizona. The facility, located in the Cotton Center, will serve as the hub for UJ’s newest graduate programs designed to address critical workforce needs in healthcare while integrating cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, computational pathology, and digital medicine.
The event was highlighted by the announcement of a transformational $7 million gift from Dr. Jo-Ida C. Hansen, a university trustee and internationally recognized scholar. This gift establishes the Dr. Jo-Ida C. Hansen Institute of Sponsored Programs, Innovation, and Research Excellence (InSPIRE), an initiative that will elevate research opportunities for faculty and students across all of UJ’s campuses.
A Transformational Gift to Inspire Innovation
Dr. Hansen’s $7 million gift is the second largest in UJ’s history and will fund the development of InSPIRE, which focuses on advancing academic research, providing faculty development resources, and supporting grant operations at both the undergraduate and graduate level. It will also position UJ to achieve a Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching Research Activity Designation, a prestigious recognition for smaller universities with bold ambitions and meaningful global impact.
“I know firsthand the importance of institutional support for research, Hansen said. “Research was at the core of my professional life as a professor. I hope, as intended, that the Research Institute helps faculty and students to have enhanced research opportunities.”
UJ also announced Dr. Kerstin “Kiki” Leuther as the inaugural Executive Director of InSPIRE. A UJ alumna with a Ph.D. in Genetics and Development from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and postdoctoral research experience at Stanford University, Dr. Leuther is a leader in biomedical science and clinical research leadership.
Dr. Leuther said, “InSPIRE is designed to be a catalyst, a place where ideas move from curiosity to discovery to impact. At its core, this initiative is about people—students and faculty—who are asking important questions and deserve the tools and partnerships to pursue them.”
New Graduate Programs to Meet Healthcare Workforce Needs
The Pathologists’ Assistant program is a two-year, on-campus program addressing the national shortage of pathology professionals. UJ’s program is one of only 16 nationwide, with the inaugural cohort of 18 students beginning in January.
The Master of Science in Computational Pathology and Digital Medicine (MSCPDM) is the first program of its kind in the U.S., this fully online degree integrates artificial intelligence and digital health solutions to revolutionize medical diagnostics. The Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) is also 100% online and a preparatory program for aspiring healthcare professionals, providing foundational training for careers in medicine or research.
“This facility represents more than a building; it represents a response to real healthcare challenges, real workforce needs, and real opportunities to serve patients, families, and communities better. It’s a testament to UJ’s mission to prepare students for lives of purpose and impact,” said Dr. Peterson.
Phoenix as a Hub for Innovation
Phoenix’s rapid growth has outpaced its healthcare infrastructure, creating urgent demand for skilled professionals. UJ’s presence aligns with the city’s goals to attract industries that create high-paying, meaningful jobs while improving quality of life for residents.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego spoke about the critical role UJ’s new facility and programs will play in the city’s future.
“When I ran for mayor, I envisioned Phoenix as the premier hub for biotechnology, life sciences, and advanced healthcare innovation. The University of Jamestown’s presence here is a gamechanger. Programs like the Pathologists’ Assistant and Digital Medicine will not only address our city’s urgent workforce shortages but also bring new tools and faster, more accurate diagnoses to our healthcare system. What a difference this will make for the people of Phoenix.”
Celebrating Student Success and Research Excellence
The grand opening event also featured UJ’s inaugural Graduate Student Research Symposium, showcasing the groundbreaking research of more than 20 UJ’s Ph.D. in Clinical Research students. These students are from across the globe and are already making significant contributions to their fields, with research projects published in prestigious academic journals. Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the Graduate Faculty and program founder, Dr. Kristin Lefebvre, shared that “These students are not content with the world as it is. They are determined to make it better. Their work reflects the very best of who we are as university rigorous, purpose-driven, and committed to advancing knowledge and character.”
A Legacy of Growth and Excellence
Since its founding in 1883, the University of Jamestown has been dedicated to preparing students holistically, blending liberal arts education with professional programs grounded in Christian values. Over the past eight years, the university has seen a 65% increase in enrollment because of its footprint expanding beyond North Dakota into Arizona, as well as globally, including a robust portfolio of online programs for working professionals.
Executive Vice President Dr. Paul Olson reflected on the university’s mission: “At UJ, we start every idea with ‘Yes.’ This facility, these programs, and this gift from Dr. Hansen are a direct result of that mindset. Together, we are building a university that listens, leads, and serves with purpose.”
Looking Ahead
As UJ begins this this new chapter, the Health Sciences and Graduate Center and InSPIRE represent important next steps in UJ’s commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and service, supporting students as they prepare for professional careers in high-demand fields.
“This gift changes what is possible for Jimmies everywhere,” said Dr. Hansen. “Together, we are creating opportunities to inspire possibility and advance knowledge for the greater good. Go Jimmies!”
To view the full dedication, click here. For more information about the University of Jamestown, its programs, or its new Phoenix campus, visit www.uj.edu.
About the University of Jamestown
Founded in 1883, the University of Jamestown is a private, Christian liberal arts university recognized as a “Best in the Midwest” institution by U.S. News & World Report.
The university operates campuses in Jamestown and Fargo, N.D., and Phoenix, Ariz., offering undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, nursing, and health professions, as well as graduate programs in business, education, leadership, technology, and clinical counseling. Doctoral offerings include clinical research, leadership, and physical therapy.
UJ provides online programs for working professionals through UJ Accelerated, offering bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, including an online MBA.
More information is available at UJ.edu.
