The University of Georgia (UGA) marked a significant step in the construction of its School of Medicine’s medical education and research building on November 25, as the final beam was placed atop the structure. This event signifies the completion of the building’s structural phase, following groundbreaking that began in May 2024.
A topping-out ceremony commemorated the milestone, with UGA President Jere W. Morehead and School of Medicine Founding Dean Shelley Nuss signing the last beam before it was set in place. “Today’s celebration represents another important milestone for the University of Georgia’s School of Medicine,” said Morehead. “Our progress to this point would not be possible without the exceptional leadership of Dean Shelley Nuss and the tireless efforts of countless individuals, and I am excited to see the many ways this building will enhance UGA’s ability to pursue groundbreaking research and educate future generations of health care professionals.”
This was the second topping-out ceremony for the project; an earlier event on November 18 allowed faculty and staff from the School of Medicine to sign a beam, symbolizing their contributions.
“We would not be here today without our dedicated and committed faculty and staff,” Nuss stated. “They have devoted countless hours of work to make the School of Medicine a reality and have provided extensive input into its design. It’s wonderful that their legacy will be part of the building itself.”
Located on Foster Road within UGA’s Health Sciences Campus, the new 93,000-square-foot facility is planned as the main educational hub for medical students. The design includes large classrooms focused on active learning, an anatomy lab, simulation center, clinical skills center, various study spaces, a student lounge, and well-being areas. About one-third of its space will support biomedical research activities.
The next steps in construction involve finishing exterior walls and making decisions about interior finishes, furniture, and equipment. The university expects to complete construction by December 2026.
