Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) and Covenant Health have announced a partnership that will elevate emergency medical services across the entire tri-state region. Beginning December 1, Covenant Health will start transitioning its ambulance services into a newly leased LMU facility in Cumberland Gap. This move will deliver faster response times, expanded service reach, and renewed confidence for families across Tennessee, with mutual aid support for Virginia and Kentucky.
The partnership took shape when Covenant Health Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer Jeremy Floyd contacted LMU to inquire about potential space. LMU responded immediately and put a plan into action. The University prepared its former distribution building for lease, securing a stable home for regional EMS operations at a critical time. The building became available after LMU relocated those functions into its new Operations Complex, making the opportunity an ideal fit for both organizations and the communities they serve.
“When Jeremy called, we saw a chance to do something truly meaningful, and we moved fast,” said LMU President Jason McConnell. “This is LMU living out its mission in real time. By opening our doors and leasing this space to Covenant Health, we are strengthening emergency response for countless families across three states. We are also giving our students new, exciting opportunities to train with EMS professionals, volunteer, and learn through powerful, real-world experiences. This partnership will change lives, improve safety, and bring a new level of readiness to our tri state region. I could not be more excited for what this means for our communities.”
Once the transition begins on December 1, Covenant Health’s EMS teams, led by Floyd and Director of EMS Danny McCreary, will begin operations from the Cumberland Gap facility. The site will position emergency medical personnel closer to key roadways, mountain communities, and rural areas that depend on rapid, reliable EMS coverage.
The partnership includes significant opportunities for LMU students. Those studying nursing, pre medicine, paramedic pathways, and health sciences will be able to shadow EMS professionals, volunteer with emergency teams, participate in workshops and skills demonstrations, and engage in hands on learning experiences that deepen their preparation for professional health care careers.
LMU and Covenant Health are also planning to bring specialized EMS training programs and certifications to LMU’s campus, ensuring that the region continues to develop strong, highly skilled first responders and healthcare providers.
The collaboration does not stop here. LMU and Covenant Health are already working on plans to construct a helicopter pad at the Cumberland Gap site. This addition will significantly expand air medical capabilities, allowing emergency teams to reach patients in remote and rural communities with remarkable speed.
“This partnership reflects LMU’s long standing commitment to serving the tri state region,” said LMU Vice President for Facilities Planning, Management, and Safety Services David Laws. “We are helping strengthen emergency services today while preparing the next generation of professionals who will safeguard our communities in the future. It is an exciting moment for LMU and an even bigger win for the people of this region.”
Lincoln Memorial University is a mission driven institution dedicated to expanding educational opportunity in the liberal arts and professional studies. The University’s main campus located in Harrogate, Tennessee, and its work extends throughout the Appalachian region.
