KCU Kicks Off Centennial Year with Administrative Building Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

The Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences (KCU), the largest medical school in Missouri, 12th largest in the nation and one of the oldest osteopathic medical schools in the country, hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newly renovated Administration Building on Jan. 12. The ribbon-cutting ceremony served as the kickoff event for KCU’s 2016 Centennial celebration.

Originally home to the first Children’s Mercy Hospital, the 100-year-old Administration Building was purchased in 1971 by the KCU Alumni Association. It was then gifted to the University in 1975 and became KCU’s official address in 1979. The 16-month renovation was completed in December, resulting in a more modern facility while retaining its classic appearance. The newly remodeled building includes the Walker Family Welcome Center, a new boardroom and 11 departments, housing more than 70 members of KCU faculty and staff. The century-old facility is notable for its vibrant past and boasts numerous highlights, including:

Artwork donated by Rita Blitt, a local, nationally known artist with a lifelong interest in the performing arts.
A third-floor conference room that was originally an operating room with a skylight to allow for natural light during surgeries.

“The opening of our renovated Administration Building marks yet another milestone in KCU’s century-long history,” said Marc B. Hahn, DO, president and chief executive officer. “We are proud of our past, and look forward to an even brighter future, characterized by continued excellence in medical and scientific education, and an emphasis on collaboration, research and service to our communities.”

KCU’s Centennial celebration will include numerous activities throughout the year, including hosting Nobel Prize Laureate Dr. Randy Schekman on March 25 for Research Day.