Monument Health Invests in the Next Chapter of Nursing

Jackrabbit nurses can thrive in any environment – and with the renovation and expansion of the West River Health Science Center (WRHSC), they’ll have even greater opportunities to excel. SDSU has consistently fostered a high-quality education in the Rapid City area for those studying healthcare, though the program offerings have been dispersed across three different locations. Thanks to an ongoing expansion and renovation to the WRHSC fueled by corporate sponsors like Monument Health, Jackrabbit nurses will pursue their degrees within one premier hub.

“Creating a space where all educational experiences can occur under one roof will improve the campus-like feel for students,” explains Mary Anne Krogh, Roberta K. Olson Dean of the College of Nursing. “The expansion of the simulation and lab spaces, new testing center, and smart classrooms will transform the learning environment.”

Beyond creating a centralized facility, the project is expected to catalyze many benefits for SDSU’s nursing program. Both Dean Krogh and Monument Health CEO Paulette Davidson anticipate that the expansion will significantly bolster recruitment efforts, drawing in potential students and top-tier faculty. In turn, the heightened recruitment will serve to combat the nursing shortage facing the state of South Dakota. According to the South Dakota Board of Nursing, the shortfall of registered nurses was approximately 1,500 in 2023, reflecting a workforce gap felt most acutely in remote areas. 

One of the motivating factors expected to drive new recruits to the WRHSC is the utilization of simulation equipment. The state-of-the-art tools and technology offer critical preparation and hands-on training to students, and Davidson believes that the simulation environment will appeal to more than just current Jackrabbits, offering existing nurses the opportunity to refresh their skills. Lending that avenue of support can help to address burnout for nurses already in the field, providing a space to stay up-to-date with the latest in healthcare. 

“It creates a safe environment where best practice can be created,” says Davidson. 



With the creation of one focal facility comes the chance to increase enrollment, train confident and competent nurses, and supply the healthcare heroes desperately in demand in South Dakota – all thanks to pivotal investments like that of Monument Health.