Georgia Highlands College celebrated a major milestone on November 6 with a groundbreaking ceremony for the nearly $12 million renovation of the Lakeview Healthcare Education Center on the Floyd Campus. The project will transform the Lakeview Building into a state-of-the-art home for GHC’s Nursing and Dental Hygiene programs—expanding the college’s capacity to train the next generation of healthcare professionals for Northwest Georgia.
During the event, GHC leadership was joined by state legislators, community partners, and students to mark the start of the renovation, which is part of Governor Brian Kemp’s statewide investment in healthcare education. The upgraded facility will feature modern clinical labs, advanced simulation spaces, and technology-rich classrooms designed to prepare students for in-demand healthcare careers. The renovated building will be home to the Atrium Health Floyd School of Health Sciences and the Atrium Health Floyd Department of Nursing.
“Today we celebrate a transformational investment in our students and our region,” said GHC President Mike Hobbs. “This project will ensure that GHC continues to meet Georgia’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals while giving our students the tools and training they need to succeed.”
State legislators Rep. Katie Dempsey and Sen. Chuck Hufstetler delivered remarks highlighting the project’s impact on workforce development and local healthcare access. Dempsey noted that more than 84% of GHC graduates begin their careers in Northwest Georgia, while Hufstetler emphasized GHC’s role in providing affordable, high-quality care through its student dental clinic and nursing programs. In addition, Rep. Matthew Gambill was in attendance and recognized for his contributions to the growth of GHC.
The event also recognized the college’s strong partnership with Atrium Health Floyd, whose support helps nursing students complete their education at little to no cost and transition directly into the local healthcare workforce. Atrium Health Floyd President Kurt Stuenkel joined the celebration to reaffirm the organization’s continued collaboration with GHC.
Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Partnerships & Innovation Lisa Jellum, Director of the Atrium Health Floyd School of Nursing Shea Walker, and Director of Dental Hygiene & Interim Chair of Health Sciences Regina Gupta, along with nursing and dental hygiene students, shared how the renovated facility will enhance hands-on learning opportunities and further strengthen program outcomes. GHC nursing graduates currently hold a 96% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate and 100% job placement within one year, while dental hygiene graduates also maintain a 100% job placement rate.
The ceremony concluded with an official groundbreaking photo featuring legislators, GHC leadership, Atrium Health Floyd representatives, and students, followed by a reception hosted by Atrium Health Floyd.
“This project doesn’t just build a facility—it builds a healthier future for Northwest Georgia,” said Andy Garner, chair of the GHC Foundation Board of Trustees.
