Roane State Community College

June 30, 2026

James and Marilyn Reafsnyder, of Lenoir City, recently made a generous contribution to Roane State Foundation in support of the Knox Regional Health Science Education Center, a new Roane State campus now open in the heart of West Knoxville.

The 130,000-square-foot facility is located at 9575 Sherrill Boulevard, across from Parkwest Medical Center, and houses health science programs offered by both Roane State and the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Knoxville.

The center expands Roane State’s presence in Knox County, with the nearby Center for Health Sciences on Hayfield Road also continuing operations, and allows both Roane State and TCAT Knoxville to significantly expand health science courses and programs.

“As members of an aging population in this area, my husband and I are committed to supporting educational initiatives that help train future health science students to meet a growing need,” Marilyn Reafsnyder said. “Recently, we toured the Simulation Center and were amazed to see the many ways it provides learning via classroom, lab, and simulation experiences – all under one roof. The forethought of creating such a facility is indeed a tribute to all those who have made it happen.”

The facility’s flagship Roane State Simulation Center is the first of its kind in Tennessee, immersing students in real-world scenarios that elevate their training.

“Just being a part of supporting such an historical healthcare initiative for East Tennessee is exciting for us,” James added. “We hope others will contribute as well, especially by helping provide scholarships – such an important part of Roane State Foundation’s THRIVE campaign. This is a legacy for our grandchildren.”

The first Roane State classes offered in the new location include nursing, EMS, and medical laboratory technology. Polysomnography and respiratory therapy courses will be available soon along with Roane State’s continuing education courses that assist healthcare professionals with maintaining professional licensure.

With the added space, Roane State is also planning to launch diagnostic medical sonography (ultrasound), echocardiography, and neurodiagnostic technology programs.

“This gift will help us ensure all students have access to an excellent health science education,” Roane State Foundation Executive Director Scott Niermann said. “We look forward to seeing these funds support scholarships for the next generation of healthcare professionals.”

The State of Tennessee contributed more than $67.5 million toward this $75 million project. Roane State Foundation has raised $5 million of the additional $7.5 million needed to equip the campus and sustain operations. With the campus now open, the campaign has shifted its focus to student aid.

“As our fundraising campaign continues, we welcome the support of citizens across the region who value a healthy, thriving community,” Niermann added.

For more information on the new campus, the fundraising campaign for student scholarships, and the expanded programs that will be offered, visit thrive.roanestate.edu.