Just one month after the launch of the new Transforming Today for Tomorrow Strategic Plan, major physical renovations are now on the horizon for Clayton State University. 

Gov. Brian Kemp recently approved the state’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget that includes $1 million in design funding for renovations to the Harry S. Downs Center – the home of the university’s highly decorated College of Health.

Following the budget’s approval, Clayton State University Pres. Georj Lewis expressed his gratitude to Gov. Kemp as well as other state leaders for their work to see the project move forward.

“I am thankful for the University System of Georgia, Gov. Kemp, House and Senate leadership, and our local legislative delegation in Clayton, Henry, and Fayette Counties for supporting Clayton State University and our students. Improving our facilities for future healthcare professionals is an investment that will contribute to addressing health care and workforce needs for our state and region.”

The million dollars will fund the design of the building’s renovation, which will expand the space to accommodate more nursing students, producing more registered nurses for the community, the region, and the state.

The project, deemed “vital” by the university, will bring Clayton State in alignment with other University System of Georgia institutions with a space that will prepare nursing and dental hygiene students with advanced technological and academic resources, such as modern labs and manikins, to ensure preparedness for real life experiences.