HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — James Madison University will receive nearly $150 million in Virginia’s new state budget to expand nursing education and modernize campus facilities.

The budget, approved June 29 by the General Assembly and incorporating Governor Abigail Spanberger’s amendments, provides $146.8 million for several major initiatives. The largest allocation, $115.3 million, will fund an expansion of JMU’s Health and Behavioral Studies Building, while $30.5 million is designated for the renovation and furnishing of Johnston Hall. An additional $1 million in recurring annual funding will support nursing faculty salaries for the university’s new Fast Flex Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

“This state funding will transform our campus and directly address critical workforce needs across the Commonwealth,” JMU President Jim Schmidt said.

Virginia currently faces a shortage of more than 20,000 registered nurses, a figure expected to rise significantly in the coming years. JMU graduated more than 270 nurses during the 2023-24 academic year, but university officials say limits on faculty, clinical placements, and classroom space have restricted further growth.

The new Fast Flex BSN pathway, launched in June, allows students to complete core nursing coursework in just over a year through evening, weekend and summer classes. The hybrid program also expands clinical training opportunities through partnerships with Augusta Health and Valley Health.

Sharon Lovell, dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Studies, said the additional support will enable JMU to increase its annual number of undergraduate nursing graduates and eventually expand enrollment in the Fast Flex program.

The expansion of the Health and Behavioral Studies Building will add a five-story, 125,367-square-foot wing featuring new classrooms, laboratories, clinic space and improved access for patients and visitors. The project also incorporates sustainable design features, including energy-efficient systems and enhanced natural lighting.

Meanwhile, the renovation of Johnston Hall, originally built in 1929, will improve accessibility and replace aging infrastructure while adding modern instructional and office space.

University leaders say the combined investments will strengthen healthcare workforce development and expand educational opportunities for students across Virginia.