News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Earn to Learn Program Grant Recipient
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is addressing the critical workforce shortages for nurses across the Commonwealth of Virginia.The VDH announced the first recipients of the Earn to Learn program grant to include Southside Virginia Community College (SVCC). Mrs. Melissa Arthur, Dean of Nursing shares excitement, “ I am thrilled to announce that SVCC has received the Earn to Learn grant. This incredible opportunity will provide our nursing students with the hands-on experience and financial support needed to succeed in their careers”. To be eligible for the grant, an institution must offer Virginia Board of Nursing approved nursing education programs for pre-licensure Registered Nurses and Practical Nurses.
The program goal is twofold, to create more career opportunities for nursing students so employment is secured upon graduation and to fill the nursing vacancies in our local healthcare settings. Mrs. Arthur agrees, “[the grant] will help us, in a rural area, to support both our students and local healthcare facilities. Together, we are shaping the future of healthcare”. She continues, “this project will aim to develop a targeted application process that prioritizes applicants from underrepresented groups, focusing on individuals experiencing financial need, diverse populations, and those without prior healthcare experience. The goal will be to achieve greater than a 50% target for those with financial need, as currently, our nursing program has 85% of students with financial need. This initiative hopes to foster inclusivity and diversity within the program, ensuring that students who might otherwise be excluded from such opportunities due to financial barriers or a lack of experience can benefit from this training. This approach addresses equity gaps and enhances the overall quality of care by bringing diverse perspectives and backgrounds into the healthcare field”.
Students selected for the grant will earn apprenticeship opportunities by paid clinical experiences to help offset the cost of tuition, travel expenses, etc. SVCC has four senior Registered Nursing students who will benefit from the opportunity this fall semester. First year students will have an opportunity to take advantage of this funding Spring 2025. Practical Nursing students will have an opportunity to apply Fall 2025. Students will receive more information from nursing staff and will be given an opportunity to apply.
SVCC’s goal is to provide relevant educational opportunities to prepare students for industry needs. More nursing graduates means more healthcare professionals to care for our community. By implementing the Earn to Learn program, SVCC is committed to bridging the gap between classroom learning and practical application. This initiative will equip our nursing students with the experience and skills they need to excel in their future healthcare careers.
###