UNA, Rep. Tammy Irons Announce Two Grants for University

May. 26, 2010

FLORENCE, Ala. – State Rep. Tammy Irons (D-Florence) recently presented the University of North Alabama with two state grants from the Education Trust Fund and General Trust Fund. Collectively, the grants equal more than $51,000.

“We are deeply grateful to Rep. Irons for her dedication and support to UNA and this region,” said Dr. John Thornell, UNA’s vice president for academic affairs and provost. “Funding opportunities like this are vital to the university’s success.”

One of the grants, in the amount of $45,760, is being distributed to various academic departments and colleges for general educational purposes. The second grant, for $5,500, is being used to complete renovations for a pediatric simulation lab in the College of Nursing and Allied Health. The university hopes to have the renovations complete by fall semester.

“Education is critical to good-paying jobs in the Shoals and in our state,” Irons said. “I am always looking for opportunities to secure funds for our schools and universities and will continue to do so.”

The UNA College of Nursing recently acquired its new pediatric simulator, a computerized manikin designed to mimic an actual infant patient. The college obtained a similar adult simulator about two years ago.

“The clinical components of the UNA nursing program are greatly enhanced through the use of human simulators,” said Dr. Birdie Bailey, dean of the College of Nursing. “To add a pediatric simulation lab to the program is valuable. We are greatly appreciative to Rep. Irons for her efforts to make that happen.”