By Jessica Lien
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences' (CLAS) Department of Health, Sport, and Human Physiology (HSHP) moved into the Health Sciences Academic Building this summer, with classes and operations beginning in earnest this fall.
The move brings the department's classrooms, teaching laboratories, faculty offices, and research spaces together with other health sciences programs.
"This is a department-wide effort, several years in the making, that will allow us to better serve our many students and increase visibility of the important research ongoing within the building," said Justin Kahler, HSHP's department administrator.
The building already houses CLAS's Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, which moved in in 2025. Carver College of Medicine's Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences will relocate there as well.
"Being together improves previously existing research collaborations and will foster new connections," Kahler said. "It also introduces students to a broader range of health careers and graduate education pathways."
Every HSHP teaching laboratory is receiving updated equipment and, in many cases, expanded space to better support instruction.
"Modernizing our facilities will allow students to familiarize themselves with the systems and equipment they will utilize in future practice," Kahler said. Additionally, the new Exercise Oncology Clinic will serve as a clinical research hub focusing on patient benefits, student outcomes, and promoting long-term health behaviors for cancer survivors through exercise.
Beyond the clinic, a new multimedia studio creates opportunities for podcasting and digital content creation. Students will learn how to conceptualize, produce, and distribute audio/video podcasts, including camera operation, lighting, on-camera performance, multi-track recording, editing, and social media promotion.
The Health Sciences Academic Building reflects the same health and wellness principles HSHP teaches in its programs. Recreational amenities, bicycle facilities, an inviting central stairway, outdoor gathering spaces, and an adaptive rooftop playground all encourage movement, accessibility, and community engagement. The rooftop space, developed with other building partners, is restricted-access and designed to support research, therapeutic activities, and outdoor programming for patients and research participants.
Kahler sees the building's role extending beyond current students and faculty. He points to it as an anchor point for alumni to return to campus after graduation, a place where they will always be welcome to reconnect and engage.