Mercy Health Sciences University has a fall 2026 enrollment of 1,003, including 399 new students. The count is a record and 7.5% higher than last year's enrollment, according to a recent press release. The school dates back 127 years.
University President Dr. Adreain Henry says in the release that the enrollment is a "powerful affirmation" of the school's mission "as we continue to address Iowa's critical healthcare workforce needs."
The enrollment boost comes as the university constructs the Joyce E. Lillis College of Nursing, named for a nurse who retired in 2016 after nearly 40 years in healthcare. Once it opens in April, the nursing school will have skills labs, simulation spaces and classrooms outfitted with advanced technology and equipment.
Mercy Health Sciences University is undertaking a fundraising campaign for the new building. The Legacy of Faith Capital Campaign already has secured $16.4 million, exceeding the campaign's original $15 million target.
The university, formerly called Mercy College of Health Sciences, is affiliated with MercyOne and Trinity Health.