The Board of Directors of the Destination Medical Center Corporation (DMCC) today approved a funding request supporting the expansion of the University of Minnesota Rochester within Discovery Square, reinforcing its role as Rochester’s hub for health innovation, research, and entrepreneurship.
The investment supports permanent improvements within leased space in Discovery Square, designed to strengthen life-science and health-tech workforce development capabilities connected to the district’s growing innovation ecosystem.
“Discovery Square was envisioned as a place where research, education, and industry converge to create long-term economic opportunity,” said Patrick Seeb. “As the district continues to mature, talent infrastructure becomes increasingly important. This investment helps deepen the University of Minnesota Rochester’s presence in Discovery Square while supporting the workforce and innovation ecosystem needed for Rochester’s next phase of growth.”
The approval reflects the continued evolution of Discovery Square as DMC’s priority innovation district, where public infrastructure, research investment, startup growth, and business development are converging to accelerate health innovation and economic diversification in Rochester.
DMC leaders said the University of Minnesota Rochester project represents an important next step in strengthening the district. The space is intended to support applied learning, workforce development, and stronger connections between students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners within Discovery Square’s growing life-science and health-tech ecosystem.
In a separate action, the DMCC Board commended Dr. Clark C. Otley for his more than a decade of service on the Destination Medical Center Economic Development Agency Board of Directors, including service as Board President since 2021.
During Dr. Otley’s tenure, the DMC initiative advanced from early planning and district formation into a nationally recognized public-private partnership supporting substantial private investment, job growth, and the continued development of Rochester as an innovation-oriented economy.
The resolution recognized Dr. Otley’s leadership in helping guide the advancement of Discovery Square, strengthening institutional partnerships, and helping shape the strategic direction of the DMC initiative through multiple phases of implementation, including the recent five-year update to the DMC Development Plan.
“Dr. Otley has provided thoughtful leadership and continuity during a transformative period for DMC and for Rochester,” said Board Chair Pamela Wheelock. “His commitment to collaboration, innovation, and long-term implementation has helped position Discovery Square and the broader DMC initiative for continued success.”
Dr. Otley joined the DMC EDA Board in 2014 and has served as Board President since 2021. Dr. Katherine Arendt has joined the DMC EDA Board and will serve as board president on Dr. Otley’s departure.
The next regular DMCC Board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 9:30. a.m.
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About DMC
Destination Medical Center (DMC) is the largest public-private economic initiative in Minnesota’s history. The 20-year plan to transform Rochester into a global destination for health and wellness will attract developers, investors, startups, and entrepreneurs to live, work, and play in America’s City for Health. For more information, visit dmc.mn.
The City of Rochester and Destination Medical Center invite you to join us in biking to work (or wherever!) on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 6:30 to 9:00 a.m.