Press Release

Commerce Department Grant Funds State-of-the-Art

June 21, 2010
Contact: John Atwood, (202) 482-4085

Nursing Simulation Center in San Antonio, Texas

WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke today announced a $1 million Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant to The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio to build a virtual hospital and simulation center that will serve as a state-of-the art skills training facility for nurses. The project is expected to increase enrollment by 25% for nursing students to meet the increasing demand for more nurses throughout south Texas.

"The Obama Administration is committed to creating jobs, encouraging innovation and improving our nation's economic competitiveness," Locke said. "This EDA grant will help to fill the nursing shortage gap in south Texas by providing students with the skills needed to become leading health care professionals."

The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio is the hub for training opportunities for health care professionals in south Texas. The proposed project will provide an environment that replicates the hospital and community setting.

About the U.S. Economic Development Administration (www.eda.gov):

This year, the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) marks 45 years of public service, with a mission of leading the federal economic development agenda by promoting competitiveness and preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that partners with distressed communities throughout the United States to foster job creation, collaboration and innovation.