Breaking News: Great Falls Set to Revolutionize Animal Care with a $91.7 Million Veterinary School!
Great Falls is on the cusp of a groundbreaking development in the world of animal health. The Great Falls Economic Development Alliance has been strategizing to leverage the city's medical and educational strengths, leading to a bold plan: introducing a veterinary medicine school.
Following a feasibility study commissioned last summer, discussions were held at Benefis Health System on December 5. Paul Umbach of Tripp Umbach and officials delved into the study's findings, revealing a promising future for veterinary education in Great Falls.
Interestingly, Roseman University of Health Sciences is a key player in this venture. Renee Coffman of Roseman University, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, expressed that the school initially started to fill a pharmacist shortage in Nevada and later expanded to nursing and dentistry. A veterinary school in Montana would be a new and fitting addition to their educational portfolio.
During the presentation, Umbach recommended that Roseman University proceed with finalizing a business model, aiming for a formal announcement in early 2024. This would kickstart the search for a founding dean and begin the accreditation process.
Coffman shared that the university's board chair, who attended the presentation, was highly impressed with Great Falls and supported the project's potential. This would mark Roseman University's first foray into Montana and into veterinary education.
Umbach highlighted the pressing need for veterinarians in Montana, noting the aging demographic of current practitioners. A local vet school could encourage more Montanans to pursue veterinary medicine.
The proposed school, however, comes with a hefty price tag: an estimated $75 million for the facility and $16.7 million in startup costs. Despite this, the school is expected to break even in 3-4 years and recover the investment in about eight years.
Umbach emphasized a unique approach: students would not practice in a large animal hospital but would instead work directly in the field with practicing veterinarians. This method promises a high-quality educational experience while bolstering existing practices.
The economic implications for Great Falls and the surrounding region are significant. The project could generate a $131.7 million construction impact, create 892 jobs, and contribute $3.2 million in state and local taxes. Once operational, it's projected to have a $90.2 million economic impact, with 532 jobs and $3.5 million in taxes.
This veterinary school isn't just about education; it's a testament to Great Falls' potential as a hub for college and healthcare, augmenting the city's already robust educational and medical landscape. With Montana's thriving agriculture and pet care industries, this school could mark a transformative chapter in the state's economy and animal care standards.
