Montemorelos University get ready to inaugurate the first phase of the Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation Learning Center, on Nov. 11, 2024. [Photo: Christopher Castellanos/ Montemorelos University]
Institution launches a new space designed for high-tech, hands-on learning.

November 19, 2024 | Montemorelos, Nuevo León, Mexico | Laura Marrero and IAD News Staff

Montemorelos University, an Adventist institution operated by the Inter-American Division inaugurated the first phase of its Multidisciplinary Research and Innovation Learning Center during a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Nov. 11, 2024. This project, which began in 2019, is poised to transform the academic and professional training of students, positioning the university at the forefront of clinical simulation and multidisciplinary education, university officials said.

High-Tech Learning

The project, which will span over 4,000 square meters, is set to be one of the university’s most iconic buildings upon completion in 2026. Designed to provide advanced infrastructure for clinical simulation, the center will offer students from various disciplines practical training in a controlled, high-tech environment.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by faculty from Montemorelos University, joined by distinguished guests: Pastor Elie Henry (second from right), president of the Inter-American Division and chairman of Montemorelos Board, and Dr. Jorge Azpiri, director of development and expansion at TecSalud at Monterrey Institute of Technology.[Photo: Daniel Gallardo/IAD]
Dr. Nahum García, director of the Faculty of Health Sciences, explained that the new building will mark a turning point in the education of health science students. “Clinical simulation is an essential tool for learning and assessment,” said García. “Just as pilots train on simulators before flying an aircraft, our students will be able to practice and refine their skills in a safe, controlled setting.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The first phase of the center includes key areas such as a model clinic, an emergency area, two control rooms, part of the intensive care hallway, and an outdoor patio with grass and perimeter areas near the hospital.

The spaces are equipped with advanced infrastructure and designed with a focus on functionality, professionalism, and comfort, explained César Fuentes, architect and director of Infrastructure Development of Montemorelos University. “The space also features a carefully chosen color palette and furniture to maintain a cohesive and visually appealing identity,” Fuentes added.

President of Montemorelos University Ismael Castillo (right front) speaks before the ribbon cutting ceremony as Ivelisse Herrera, treasurer of the IAD, Pastor Elie Henry (second left), president of the Inter-American Division and chairman of Montemorelos Board, Dr. Jorge Azpiri (right back), director of development and expansion at TecSalud at Monterrey Institute of Technology [Photo: Daniel Gallardo/IAD]
According to Dr. García, the center will significantly benefit health science students through advanced clinical simulation, and will also serve as a valuable resource for the ongoing training of healthcare professionals. He highlighted the multidisciplinary nature of the building, which will offer numerous educational and training opportunities across different fields.

Stakeholders Celebrate the Progress

More than 160 executive committee members of the Inter-American Division—a key donor of the inaugurated center, as well as members of the university’s board of directors and other invited guest toured the facility.

Dr. Ismael Castillo, president of Montemorelos University, shared insights into the university’s ambitious expansion plans. “Our goal is to develop the UMSalud campus, (or UMHealth), which will encompass the Faculty of Health Sciences and this building dedicated to innovation and research for learning,” Castillo explained. “This will connect with La Carlota Hospital and the geriatric centers which are under construction,” he added.

L-R: Denise Johnson of the IAD, Pastor Al Powell, youth ministries director of the IAD, Pastor Billy Biaggi, vice president of the General Conference, get hands on experience on the patient simulator trauma room during the tour of the learning center on Nov. 11, 2024, as medical student smiles with the group. [Photo: Daniel Gallardo/IAD]
“We want our hospitals to be not only clinical care centers but also academic spaces where professionals are trained and research is conducted, fostering a comprehensive development in both education and healthcare,” Castillo said.

Progress and Future Projections

The project, with a total investment of over 90 million Mexican Pesos, has received more than 30 million so far. Construction began in May 2022 and is moving forward according to schedule, officials said. The main areas of the building are expected to be operational by November 2025, with full completion anticipated by the end of 2026.

The architectural project, developed in collaboration with the Hábitat in-house firm, includes spaces such as operating rooms, reflection rooms, classrooms, a 700-seat auditorium, research laboratories in various scientific fields, and areas for occupational and physical therapy. These spaces are being built with the goal of providing students with a state-of-the-art clinical simulation environment, said Fuentes.

General Conference IAD leaders share a moment with Dr. Ismael Castillo, president of Montemorelos University at the space adjacent to the recently inaugurated simulation and observation rooms in front of the main building. [Photo: Daniel Gallardo/IAD]
Education and Technology

“The innovative center is not just a physical building; it is a vision for the future of the university,” said Fuentes. The project was developed with a multidisciplinary approach that integrates advanced clinical simulation technology, allowing for a more comprehensive and practical education for students. The project planning, which included more than 450 blueprints and covered over 20 engineering and related specialties, ensures that every detail meets the necessary specifications for such a large-scale building, Fuentes explained.

Work is currently underway in areas like restrooms, perimeter walls, and floor structures, according to Fuentes. Adjustments to the budget have led to innovative solutions in the execution of the project, optimizing resources to meet established goals, university officials said.

Church leaders get a tour from university officials on the second phase of the construction project in the new learning center building. [Photo: Daniel Gallardo/IAD]
Although some specialized simulation equipment, such as software and devices, is still under evaluation, the overall progress is moving forward, said García.

“This partial inauguration reaffirms our commitment to training highly skilled professionals and represents a key step in the creation of world-class clinical simulation spaces,” Dr. García said.