New Richmond
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Northwood Tech received a $10,000 donation toward new Medical Laboratory Education Center
August 07, 2025
The Northwood Technical College Foundation has received a $10,000 donation from the Hudson Hospital Foundation to support the college’s new Medical Laboratory Education Center in New Richmond.
The donation was presented Aug. 7 during the Hudson Hospital Foundation’s Community Grant Reception Open House at the Hudson Hospital & Clinic Walnut Conference Room.
Created in partnership with Westfields Hospital, the center will provide hands-on, practical training for students in Northwood Tech’s Medical Laboratory Technician program. Courses began at the new facility in January.
“This generous donation helps create a space where students can develop the skills they need in a setting that mirrors what they will encounter in the field,” said Kim Pearson, director of advancement for the college and executive director of the Northwood Technical College Foundation. “It’s a critical investment in the future of our local healthcare workforce.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held Wednesday, Aug. 27, to celebrate the opening of the center.
Erika Schendel (right), director of the Hudson Hospital Foundation, presented a $10,000 donation to Kim Pearson (left), executive director of the Northwood Technical College Foundation and director of advancement at Northwood Technical College. The gift supported the new Medical Laboratory Education Center in New Richmond.
The new center supports Northwood Tech’s vision to provide high-quality, workforce-ready training by replicating real hospital and clinic lab environments. Students will gain hands-on experience with diagnostic equipment and procedures in a controlled setting, preparing them to meet regional healthcare demands. Hudson Hospital Foundation’s donation reflects a shared commitment among local healthcare partners and the college to grow and retain skilled professionals in western Wisconsin.
“Supporting the development of future health care professionals is vital to the health and well-being of our communities,” said Erika Schendel, director, Hudson Hospital Foundation. “We’re proud to invest in a project that helps ensure our patients and neighbors receive care from highly skilled professionals close to home.”
The Medical Laboratory Technician program prepares students to conduct diagnostic testing that supports disease detection and treatment. Graduates are eligible to work in hospital labs, clinics, and private diagnostic facilities.
