As Wisconsin faces growing shortages in nursing and health care professionals, Concordia University Wisconsin is investing in expanded educational capacity designed to strengthen the region’s workforce pipeline. According to Dr. Erik Ankerberg, president of Concordia University Wisconsin and Ann Arbor, through a major School of Nursing expansion and a new partnership with the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine (ICOM), the university is positioning its Mequon campus as a growing hub for health care education in Southeastern Wisconsin.
What are the key components of this project, and how does it support regional growth?
“Concordia is developing a significant addition to its School of Nursing that includes approximately 26,000 square feet of new construction and more than 11,000 square feet of renovated space. The project will expand classroom, simulation and collaborative learning environments for nursing students. Construction on the nursing expansion has begun and is expected to be completed for Fall 2027.
Concordia has also announced a partnership with ICOM that is expected to bring Wisconsin’s first college of osteopathic medicine to the state, creating new pathways for students pursuing careers in medicine. Concordia students would be able to begin entering the ICOM pathway as freshmen in Fall 2027, and the medical school is expected to launch in Fall 2031, with both timelines contingent upon accreditation approval.
Health systems throughout Wisconsin continue to face workforce shortages in nursing, primary care and other health professions. These projects help address those needs by increasing educational capacity and preparing more graduates to serve communities across the state.”
What makes this project unique or innovative in Southeastern Wisconsin?
“Few institutions are combining nursing expansion and future medical school opportunities within one integrated health care education ecosystem. The project reflects a long-term investment in workforce development, innovation and community impact.”
What excites you most about this development?
“The opportunity to prepare future nurses and physicians who will serve Wisconsin communities for decades to come while expanding access to high-quality health care education in the region.”
Concordia University Wisconsin | cuw.edu | 262.243.4474
Concordia University Health Education Expansion | cuw.edu/nursingfuture
