#United States #Portland #NUNM #National University of Natural Medicine

National University of Natural Medicine Secures New Campus in Portland

The National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) has made a significant step towards enhancing its educational and community services by finalizing the purchase of the Woolworth Building located at 1621 SW First Avenue in Portland, Oregon. This acquisition not only marks a new chapter for NUNM but also positions the university for sustained growth and stability in the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare education.

A Strategic Move

The Woolworth Building, encompassing approximately 182,000 square feet, is set to become the new home for NUNM, paving the way for a more cohesive integration of its programs. Previously, NUNM had sold its former campus in 2022 and entered into a lease-back arrangement while exploring suitable long-term options. Following a thorough assessment period, the Woolworth Building emerged as the optimal choice to facilitate modern academic, research, and clinical initiatives.

Dr. Melanie Henriksen, President of NUNM, emphasized the broader implications of this acquisition, stating, "This acquisition represents far more than a new address for NUNM. As healthcare systems grapple with rising costs and fragmented care, the need for whole-person practitioners has never been greater. This new campus strengthens our ability to educate clinicians who promote long-term wellness through integrative, relationship-centered care. This home will bring our people and our purpose together in one space where learning and collaboration can truly thrive."

Relocation Timeline

The relocation process is set to unfold in phases beginning in mid-2026. Initially, NUNM will transfer its academic programs and administrative offices, aiming for a spring term commencement. The university’s Health Center, teaching kitchen, and Helfgott Research facility will follow suit based on construction timelines and financial resources. During this transitional phase, clinical services will remain uninterrupted at the current NUNM Health Center.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, NUNM plans to embark on a "Phase 2" that requires philanthropic and capital support. This phase envisions several state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• - A purpose-built integrative Health Center
• - A modern Community Teaching Kitchen intended for nutrition and culinary medical education, alongside NUNM's renowned Food As Medicine Everyday community initiative
• - An advanced clinical simulation center designed to enhance physician training
• - Dedicated spaces to boost the Helfgott Research Institute’s research capacity and innovation

Dr. Leah Hollon, Chair of the NUNM Board of Directors, highlighted the critical importance of this investment, stating, "Given the growing strain on our healthcare system, this investment comes at exactly the right time. As NUNM approaches its 70th anniversary, this leading-edge campus represents a promise to our future. It gives us the room to grow, the stability to flourish, and the environment our students and faculty deserve. Most of all, it ensures that the kind of compassionate, whole-person care our graduates provide will continue to reach the communities that rely on it."

About NUNM

Founded in 1956, the National University of Natural Medicine stands as the longest-established accredited naturopathic medical school in North America. The institution, located in Portland, Oregon, offers a diverse range of graduate and undergraduate degrees, encompassing fields such as naturopathic medicine, Chinese medicine, nutrition, integrative health sciences, and research. Additionally, NUNM operates the NUNM Health Centers, which offer patient-centered, integrative primary care to the Portland community. For further details, interested parties can visit nunm.edu and nunmhealthcenters.com.

In conclusion, NUNM's strategic acquisition of the Woolworth Building is a pivotal move that underscores its commitment to advancing healthcare education. As the transition unfolds, NUNM prepares to foster a more unified and effective approach to training future healthcare professionals, ultimately benefiting the broader community.