Open wide: Utah's first dental college breaks ground in South Jordan

(South Valley Journal) Officials with golden shovels turned up the first dirt and began the process of erecting Utah's first dental college located in South Jordan. The school, located at 10920 South Riverfront Parkway, is set to open in fall 2011 and will include a dental clinic providing care for those in need in the community.

"It's wonderful that once in a while we can warmly welcome dentists. It doesn't happen often so when it does, they should get a good welcome," Utah's Lt. Gov. Greg Bell said. "As we see our own children seek after a good education so often they have to go out of state. We regret our children have to leave our state to find these schools. This is a terrific opportunity."

South Jordan city leaders say the future of the University of Southern Nevada holds tremendous opportunities for its students, the city of South Jordan and for people who will receive medical care.

"Today we broke ground for a building we are certain will be an outstanding dental college. I am confident that this will not be the last college to open on this campus," said South Jordan City Council member and USN Board of Trustees member Leona Winger. "We live in a nation and world that has a deep need for medically trained professionals. This school is uniquely qualified to train them and return them to their homes and countries where their people desperately need the care they'll provide."

City officials expect the new college to bring stimulating economic factors including at least 100 new jobs to South Jordan.

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