Colorado-Real-Estate-Journal_480333

68 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / SEPTEMBER 2025 Aims Community College Buil Equity and the Future A ims Community College, lo- cated in Greeley, is taking a bold step toward holistic student support by develop- ing its new Student Health and Well- ness Center. More than just a building, the SHWC symbolizes the college’s commitment to accessible, stigma-free health care and a thriving campus community. Designed by SmithGroup, the center thoughtfully blends well- ness, equity and future-ready design, drawing on the firm’s expertise in higher education and health care en- vironments. Aims Community College recently broke ground on the SHWC, which serves as a model for how design can sup- port mental and physical health, foster inclusivity, and adapt to evolving needs. n A vision rooted in wellness and community. Fi- nancial stress, health issues and basic needs insecurity often disrupt students’ academic progress. The SHWC unifies previously separate services, an external health clinic and on-campus counseling, into a single, holistic system, removing barriers like transportation, time and cost, making care more accessible. Despite challenges in merging workflows and privacy needs, the result is a seamless, collaborative environment supporting both physical and mental health. The SHWC’s design is intentionally inclusive and flexi- ble, offering spaces that cater to a variety of personality types and needs. Whether students seek solitude or so- cial interaction, the center provides indoor and outdoor areas that foster both privacy and connection. “Wellness is foundational to learning,” said Aims Vice President of Student Affairs Larry Pakowski. “This center is designed to meet students where they are, physically, emotionally and mentally, by removing barriers to care and creating a supportive, inclusive environment. It’s a Nate Savage, AIA, LEEP AP Senior Architect, SmithGroup