In early October, the UConn Health Center submitted a comprehensive application to the Health Resources and Services Administration for a $100 million federal grant to support the renewal of the John Dempsey Hospital and to establish the UConn Health Network. While our application was extremely well done and clearly identified a compelling need for these targeted federal dollars, we learned today [Dec. 30] that the grant was not awarded to the UConn Health Center.

We deeply believe in the strength of all the regional initiatives within the UConn Health Network and the critical importance of the John Dempsey Hospital renewal plan. Efforts to implement our renewal project, construct the patient care tower, and establish the UConn Health Network will continue as we seek to secure necessary funding.

We are pleased to say we have unwavering support from the UConn Foundation, the University’s fund-raising arm, as well as many community leaders who are fully committed to the success of these initiatives.

With continued support from our faculty, staff, students, and friends, our journey continues.

Sincerely,

Philip E. Austin
Interim President

Cato T. Laurencin, MD
Vice President for Health Affairs
Dean, UConn School of Medicine