VC Nursing Program Receives More Than $484,000 in State Grants
The Vernon College Associate Degree Nursing Program has been awarded two state grants totaling more than $484,000 to enhance nursing education opportunities and expand hands-on training capabilities for students in the region.
The grants will support the conversion of an empty space at the Century City Center into a large simulation laboratory and provide advanced equipment for nursing instruction and workforce training.
The Nursing Shortage Reduction Program (NSRP) grant, totaling $189,535.63, will fund the renovation and conversion of the space into a state-of-the-art simulation lab designed to give nursing students realistic clinical training experiences.
In addition, Vernon College received a Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grant in the amount of $295,447.00 to purchase simulation and instructional equipment for the new lab. Vernon ISD and Wichita Falls ISD partnered with Vernon College on the JET grant application and will also have access to the equipment for educational and career training opportunities.
The expanded simulation lab will allow students to strengthen clinical skills in a controlled learning environment that mirrors real-world healthcare settings. The project is also expected to help address regional workforce demands by increasing educational capacity and supporting the development of future nurses.
“These grants represent a significant investment in healthcare education for our region,” said Dr. Mary Rivard, Director of Nursing for Vernon College. “The new simulation lab and equipment will provide our students and educational partners with advanced training opportunities that better prepare them for careers in nursing and healthcare.”
The Associate Degree Nursing Program at Vernon College continues to play a critical role in preparing highly skilled nursing professionals to serve communities across Texas.
