UNMC announces historic Project NEXT to transform healthcare education in Nebraska

The University of Nebraska Board of Regents meeting on April 11, 2025, highlighted a significant advancement in healthcare education with the approval of Project NEXT, a transformative initiative for the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). This project, touted as the largest public-private partnership in Nebraska's history, aims to revolutionize health care education and clinical trial opportunities across the state.

Chancellor of UNMC emphasized that nearly 40% of the new facility will be dedicated to education and clinical research, addressing a critical need for training healthcare providers. The facility will provide essential clinical experiences for students, particularly those from the Kearney campus who require specialized training in areas such as neurosurgery and cardiac surgery. This expansion is expected to significantly increase the number of students able to access clinical sites, which have been limited in the past.

The meeting also underscored the importance of clinical trials, with the Chancellor noting that participation can lead to better patient outcomes. For instance, advancements in leukemia treatment have dramatically improved survival rates due to increased access to clinical trials. The goal is to ensure that every patient has the opportunity to participate in such trials, thereby gaining access to cutting-edge treatments.

Regents expressed strong support for the project, highlighting its commitment to enhancing the student experience with modern facilities designed for their needs. The motion to advance Project NEXT passed unanimously, marking a pivotal step towards improving healthcare education and patient care in Nebraska.

As the project moves forward, it promises to not only replace aging facilities but also to position Nebraska as a leader in healthcare innovation and education, ultimately benefiting both students and patients across the state.