NORTH EAST, MD — Cecil College marked a significant achievement with the graduation of its first Accelerated Nursing Program class. The ceremony, held on August 16 at the Technology Center on the North East Campus, celebrated the completion of a rigorous 12-month curriculum specifically designed for individuals with prior academic credentials seeking to expedite their path to becoming Registered Nurses (RNs).
Dr. Nancy Norman-Marzella, Dean of Health, Human and Business Sciences at Cecil College, expressed pride in the graduates’ achievements. “Our nursing graduates continue to distinguish our program with their accomplishments as clinicians and educators and through contributions to nursing research. We are honored to educate and train future nurses for our community,” she stated.
The students honored during the Pinning Ceremony include:
- Stacey Edwards from North East, MD
- Nellie Hudson from Elkton, MD
- Laura Miranda from Elkton, MD
- Alexis Preston from Elkton, MD
- Sherrie Shevchuck from Elkton, MD
- Alicia Sturgill from Elkton, MD
The program caters to those with bachelor’s or associate degrees in other fields, providing a fast-track route to an Associate of Science in Nursing. It combines online theoretical components, delivered both synchronously and asynchronously, with hands-on experience through in-person labs and clinicals.
Graduates are well-prepared for the National Council Licensure Examination-RN, meeting licensure requirements in Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania. This strategic initiative by Cecil College addresses the anticipated nursing shortage, with the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration is projecting a shortfall of over 78,000 full-time RNs by 2025.
The Accelerated Nursing Program is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and approved by the Maryland Board of Nursing (MBON). By accelerating the training of new nurses, Cecil College is taking crucial steps to support regional healthcare needs and mitigate the looming shortage.
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