Mission Health Partnership With Western Carolina University Promotes Healthcare Workforce Across Western North Carolina
This week, Mission Health highlighted its continued partnership with Western Carolina University to strengthen the healthcare workforce across Western North Carolina. Since 2022, Mission Health has funded an additional full-time nursing faculty position at WCU’s School of Nursing, enabling the program to enroll 10 additional nursing students each year.
“We are excited to see the impact of this partnership as we continue working together, and Mission Health’s continued investment in nursing education demonstrates the power of partnership in addressing critical healthcare workforce needs,” said Lori Anderson, PhD, RN, Dean and Professor, Western Carolina University. “Several years ago, we recognized that overcoming the region’s nursing shortage would require all of us working together, and this collaboration has turned that commitment into action. By expanding enrollment, supporting innovative pathways into nursing, and strengthening clinical training opportunities, we are preparing more highly qualified nurses to serve Western North Carolina. WCU is proud to partner with Mission Health to build a stronger, healthier future for the communities we serve.”
In addition to undergraduate nursing program, WCU’s new Pre-Licensure Master of Science in Nursing program provides an additional pathway into the profession for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in other field. The inaugural cohort will complete clinical rotations at Angel Medical Center and Highlands-Cashiers Hospital.
"Preparing the next generation of nurses is one of the best investments we can make in the health of our communities," said Greg Lowe, President of Mission Health. "We're proud to partner with Western Carolina University to help expand educational opportunities, strengthen the healthcare workforce and ensure patients throughout Western North Carolina continue to have access to exceptional care close to home. Partnerships like this demonstrate our shared commitment to the future of healthcare in our region."
