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SJRCC Press Release
April 2010
SJRCC nursing program
"Neighbors taking care of neighbors"
Since its first class in 2003, the St. Johns River Community College nursing program has built a solid program and a solid reputation within the health care community; however, a new reputation has begun to emerge regarding its "caring" professions - just ask your neighbor.
SJRCC's nursing program will soon surpass 400 graduates, an impact felt by the local workforce, economy and families. According to Anna Lebesch, SJRCC's vice president for workforce development, many graduates choose to remain in the community after graduation and begin their careers closer to home. "There is a 'community trend' reinforcing the health care profession within our district. Many of our faculty are also local professionals," she said. "Health care facilities, including Orange Park Medical Center, have also played an essential role in the program's success as both benefactor and beneficiary."
Thomas Pentz, the medical center's CEO, said the two institutions have created a strong relationship. "Educating our future health care workers here in Clay County gives the unique opportunity for neighbors to take care of neighbors," Pentz said. "The heart of that relationship is invaluable. Exceptional skills are one part of nursing, but the other necessity is the heart for caring. SJRCC offers both in their students."
OPMC Chief Nursing Officer Kathy Hester said as the hospital continues to offer more services and expand its facility, its need for outstanding health care workers will continue to grow. "SJRCC has always provided the highest quality nurses and ancillary health care workforce," Hester said. "Our future partnership is bright as OPMC continues on its quest to offer all the care our community needs right here in Clay County."
Jordan Engelhardt, a 2008 SJRCC graduate, said remaining in Clay County to earn her degree and begin her career as a critical care nurse at OPMC has proven to be a successful decision. "I definitely think that a community college was the way to go for me. It was the smartest thing to do," Engelhardt said. "At 24 years old, I have a comfortable income and the knowledge to save a neighbor's life. That makes me feel really good."
According to Lebesch, the College's success also includes a 2009 licensure exam passing rate above the state and national average.
The Orange Park and Palatka nursing programs, which are approved by the Florida Board of Nursing, prepares students for careers as registered nurses. The College currently admits 108 students in the associate in science degree program. Graduates are eligible to apply to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN).
St. Johns River Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award the associate degree.
SJRCC also offers health care degree programs in Health Information Management, Respiratory Care and Radiologic Technology. For more information about SJRCC's health care programs, call the Orange Park Campus at (904) 276-6800 Ext. 4176.
Return to SJRCC home page.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Susan Kessler
SJRCC Director of Public Relations and Publications
5001 St. Johns Avenue
Palatka, FL 32177
(386) 312-4020
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