By TISA MASON
FHSU President
This summer, Fort Hays State University (FHSU) will embark on a much-anticipated renovation of its cadaver lab—an essential facility that has served the Department of Biological Sciences since the 1998-2000 renovation of Albertson Hall. Having transitioned from a theater-style lecture hall, the cadaver lab on the third floor has facilitated hands-on learning for students enrolled in human anatomy courses for more than two decades.
However, time has not been kind to this vital space. With outdated features and a design that needs a modern touch, the upcoming renovations promise to significantly enhance the educational experience for future generations.
Since its establishment, the cadaver lab has provided crucial resources for students interested in the medical and health professions.
It currently accommodates 6-8 cadavers. While invaluable to learning anatomy, the facility has faced significant challenges. The lab's original oak cabinets are tarnished with chemical residue, the flooring has deteriorated, and the current autopsy tables are not conducive to practical cadaver preservation.
Furthermore, the absence of modern audio-visual aids has limited the potential for interactive and efficient teaching methodologies.
Dr. Tara Phelps-Durr, professor and chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, highlighted how the lab has become outdated. The partitioned research space has left the lab cramped and dim, inhibiting a conducive learning environment. Instructors have been unable to project images or utilize modern teaching aids, which has stifled innovative teaching methods in anatomy courses.
“Updating the cadaver lab is crucial for providing the highest quality of anatomical education for students pursuing careers in various healthcare fields,” emphasized Dr. Phelps-Durr, reinforcing the need for modern facilities that align with current educational standards.
The renovation will see several significant enhancements, including space optimization, modernization of the facility, enhanced technological capabilities, and flexibility in learning.
Removing the partition wall will create a larger, more open space that integrates a research area within the lab, allowing instructors to blend research with hands-on dissections and creating space optimization.
All furniture and flooring will be replaced with stainless steel materials that are easier to clean and better suited for a laboratory environment. New cadaver tables have already been obtained, enhancing preservation techniques.
Enhanced technological capabilities will bring essential audio-visual components, including individual computers at each dissection table, an instructor station, and a camera mounted over one cadaver to demonstrate dissection techniques.
Mobile student tables will allow space reconfiguration, accommodating innovative teaching methods such as virtual reality (VR) dissections—creating flexibility in learning and aligning FHSU with comparable facilities at peer institutions.
According to Dr. David Tarailo, lead human anatomy instructor, faculty involvement in planning has been critical, with input gathered to prioritize the lab's needs. Current students have also weighed in, suggesting the necessity of technology that supports their learning.
Student Alexis Hutton noted, “A screen or monitor would be the most helpful piece of technology...allowing the student to approach the identification more confidently.”
The anticipated outcomes from this renovation include enhanced learning experiences, improved research opportunities, and safety and maintenance improvements. Enhanced learning experiences are focused on technology integration and innovative teaching methodologies, ensuring students can use virtual reality capabilities to visualize and interact with anatomy in a way that previous generations could only dream of.
Creating a research area within the lab and including course-embedded undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) will make academic research accessible to all students, thereby improving research opportunities.
The new design will feature improved cleaning capabilities, addressing past odor and air quality concerns from improper drainage systems.
Funding for this ambitious project has come through state dollars, grants, and philanthropic support, showcasing the strong partnership between FHSU and various stakeholders, including the Kansas Idea Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (K-INBRE). We are also very grateful for the philanthropy of many of our alumni and medical professionals who have helped make this renovation a reality. FHSU maintains a commitment to academic excellence and innovation as this collaboration unfolds.
The renovation is slated to begin this summer and extend into the fall semester of 2025. Students will utilize alternate classrooms and labs during this time, ensuring minimal disruption to their learning experiences.
The upgraded Cadaver Lab will enhance the educational experience for current students and elevate FHSU’s offerings. With improved facilities and advanced technology, students will benefit from a top-tier learning environment that prepares them for success in health sciences. At Fort Hays State University, we remain focused on delivering hands-on, meaningful, and transformative educational opportunities.
You, too, can join in this vital renovation project by investing in academic excellence at Fort Hays State University. Every gift makes a difference, no matter the size. If you would like to donate to the Cadaver Lab renovation, please get in touch with the FHSU Foundation Director of Development, Eric Depperschmidt, at 785-628-4527 or [email protected].
I look forward to sharing this exciting transformation with our community at a fall ribbon-cutting celebration.