This fall, the Mennonite College of Nursing (MCN) hosted deans and directors from baccalaureate and community college nursing programs from around the state in order to focus on advancing nursing education for all nurses in Illinois.
The Illinois Association of College of Nursing (IACN) and the deans and directors from the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) met at Edwards Hall for a joint fall retreat.
There were 50 leaders from more than 40 colleges in attendance. These nursing leaders are working together to assist nursing students and practicing nurses to advance their nursing education in a seamless and effective manner. The Institute of Medicine’s hallmark report on the future of nursing identified that increasing education of nurses at all levels can positively influence patient outcomes. Unfortunately obstacles to obtaining higher levels of education for nurses remain and this group is dedicated to turn those obstacles into opportunities.
“This was a fantastic meeting,” MCN Dean Janet Krejci. “Stronger relationships were established, and challenges and opportunism to make a bigger difference in Illinois were identified. This group will continue its work in the coming months.”
