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

NUNM Opens New Campus in Downtown Portland

The National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) is making a significant mark on Portland's educational landscape with the grand opening of its new downtown campus on June 26, 2026. This event not only celebrates the completion of the new campus but also commemorates NUNM's 70th anniversary, highlighting its long-standing commitment to natural medicine education and community service.

A Bright Vision for the Future

Situated at 1621 SW 1st Ave, the new campus began welcoming students on June 1, 2026, marking a new chapter as the university relocates from its previous home in Lair Hill, a site it occupied since 1996. The move represents a strategic decision to place students, faculty, and staff right in the vibrant heart of downtown Portland, emphasizing accessibility and community involvement.

Mayor Keith Wilson and Oregon State Senator Lisa Reynolds, MD are expected to join faculty, students, alumni, and community partners in celebrating the opening.

NUNM President Melanie Henriksen emphasized the importance of this milestone, stating, "This moment reflects both our history and where we are headed. For 70 years, we have prepared graduates who support whole-person health. Bringing our campus into downtown Portland allows us to be more connected and engaged in the life of the city. We see this as an investment in Portland's future and in the communities we serve."

Revitalizing Downtown Portland

The new campus represents a meaningful investment in the revitalization of Portland's urban core. By adapting an existing building, NUNM is contributing to increased activity and community connection in the downtown area. The daily presence of students and faculty is expected to bolster local businesses, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the university and the surrounding community.

The first phase of the campus is now complete, featuring modern classrooms, teaching laboratories, a library, productive student spaces, and administrative offices. Looking ahead, plans are in place for a second phase that will introduce a primary care health center, a teaching kitchen focused on the concept of 'Food as Medicine', and a clinical simulation center, pending available funding.

The NUNM Health Center, which is designated as a certified Patient-Centered Primary Care Home (PCPCH), will remain at Lair Hill until the expansion of Phase 2 is funded.

Enhancing Healthcare Education

With the opening of this new campus, NUNM aims to strengthen its capacity for educating and retaining healthcare professionals while enhancing opportunities for community-based services. This initiative will significantly improve access to care for underserved populations, fulfilling a critical need in the community.

The ribbon-cutting event will also celebrate a major milestone for the university and its continued investment in the future of Portland. As the city evolves, NUNM's presence in downtown reflects the essential role of education, innovation, and community engagement in nurturing a more vibrant and resilient urban environment.

Event Details

• - What: NUNM Campus Ribbon Cutting & 70th Anniversary Celebration
• - When: June 26, 2026, 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
• - Where: National University of Natural Medicine, 1621 SW 1st Ave, Portland, OR 97201

About NUNM

Founded in 1956, the National University of Natural Medicine is the oldest accredited naturopathic medical university in North America, recognized for its leadership in integrative health education. The university prepares future healthcare practitioners through graduate and professional programs that emphasize evidence-informed natural medicine, nutrition, and holistic patient care. For 70 years, NUNM has remained committed to transforming healthcare through education, research, and active community engagement.