HILO >> The dean of the University of Hawaii at Hilo College of Pharmacy says not having a permanent building is making it tough to attract top researchers, faculty and students. 

That’s why university officials are hoping the state Legislature appropriates the $38 million needed for the first phase of construction on a $55 million building. The burgeoning program is touted as the first school of pharmacy in the state and Pacific region, but has been operating out of spread-out temporary buildings. 

In June, the national agency that regulates pharmacy schools granted the college full accreditation but noted the lack of a permanent building is a serious concern.

UH-Hilo spokesman Gerald De Mello tells Hawaii Tribune-Herald (http://bit.ly/AAOdQy ) the building is vital to the success of the college.