9/3/24

By FHSU University Communications

HAYS, Kan. – With the support of U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, Fort Hays State University has recently received Congressionally Directed Community Project Funds (CDCPF) through The Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024, in the amount of $3 million. Beginning on September 1, 2024, these funds will be available for use within various health-related programs.   

Awarded through the US Department of Education, the funds are designated to support the purchase of advanced technology and simulation equipment associated with the instructional demands of Fort Hays State University programs, which focus on preparation and continuing education in the allied health professions. To prepare students to serve in a variety of allied health professions, access to advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment during academic preparation is imperative.

In addition to enhancing experiences for traditionally enrolled students, the university routinely provides continuing education opportunities for regional partners and their current employees and healthcare providers.

Academic areas benefiting from the award include nursing, medical diagnostic imaging, health and human performance/exercise science, and speech language pathology/audiology. Department Chairs from academic units in the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences have been integrally involved in the development of the proposal:

• Brenda Hoopingarner and Christa Beiker, Medical Diagnostic Imaging
• Steve Sedbrook, Health and Human Performance/Exercise Science
• Jenny Manry, Nursing
• Karmen Porter, Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology

“The use of simulation and enhanced laboratory and clinical experiences enable our academic programs to better prepare students for the important professional roles they will fill in our rural communities and expand the skills of professionals in their field seeking continuing education and professional development,” said Jeff Briggs, Dean of the College of Health and Behavioral Sciences. 

“These enriched training experiences are considered best practice because they provide participants and faculty a safe environment for teaching and learning the knowledge, skills, and attitudes associated with quality and effective health-care team services.”