Morrison Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Center Opens
The University of Charleston today unveiled the Morrison Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Center, a $10 million initiative that will serve as the home for new graduate programs in occupational therapy and physical therapy—both designed to meet growing workforce demands across the region and nation in critical areas of healthcare.
“This is a great day for the University of Charleston,” UC President Marty Roth said. “This new facility will prepare our students to become skilled, compassionate professionals and help address healthcare challenges in our communities. It also reflects our continued growth as a university and our commitment to preparing students for successful careers in high-demand fields. We are incredibly grateful to everyone—faculty, staff, donors, and partners—who helped make this vision a reality.”
The Morrison Center features advanced labs designed specifically for occupational and physical therapy instruction, providing hands-on learning opportunities in a real-world setting. The facility also includes collaborative learning spaces, private study rooms, new classrooms, and faculty offices.
In addition to its academic features, the Morrison Center includes significant upgrades to UC’s athletic facilities. Renovated visitor locker rooms, modernized weight training areas, and new laundry facilities will enhance the overall student-athlete experience.
The project was made possible through support from generous donors, regional foundations, and a federal Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) grant secured through the Congressionally Directed Spending process.
“The Morrison Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Center is a remarkable example of what can be accomplished when federal support, private philanthropy, and strong institutional leadership come together around a shared goal: to invest in the future of our students and in the health and wellness of our communities,” Senator Shelley Moore Capito said. “This newly renovated facility will play a vital role in preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals and student athletes. I’m grateful to President Roth, the Board, and all the generous donors who helped bring this vision to life.”
Generous support for the project came from several contributors, including Lisa and Larry Pack, the Maier Foundation, Encova Foundation, the Martha Gaines and Russell Wehrle Memorial Foundation, HB Wehrle Foundation, the John L. Dickinson Family, and many individual donors, including all members of UC’s Board of Trustees.
“The support we’ve received for this project just shows the belief so many people have in UC’s mission and future,” Gail Carter, Vice President of Development, said. “Every dollar invested in the Morrison Center helps us build a pipeline of healthcare providers, leaders, and innovators who will make a real difference in the lives of others. We’re grateful to our donors and partners for being part of this transformative project.”
The center is named in honor of the late J. Holmes Morrison—the longest-serving chair of UC’s Board of Trustees, a respected banker, and a prominent community leader. In conjunction with the project, the university is also launching the J. Holmes Morrison Endowed Scholarship to support aspiring healthcare professionals, providing financial assistance to undergraduate students pursuing careers in rehabilitation sciences.
“Holmes Morrison played an important role in shaping the trajectory of the University of Charleston,” Greg Burton, current chair of UC’s Board of Trustees, said. “His leadership, guidance and commitment to our mission helped lay the foundation for the institution we are today. Naming this center in his honor serves as a lasting tribute to a man whose impact will continue to be felt for generations.”
The Master of Occupational Therapy program is currently enrolling students, while the Doctor of Physical Therapy program is slated to begin in May 2026.
Pickering Associates and Pray Construction led the completion of the project.
For more information about the Center and the programs it will house, visit the Morrison Rehabilitation Science and Athletic Center page.