News Summary
Lander University has commenced construction on a new nursing facility in celebration of National Nurses Day. Featuring modern classrooms and advanced simulation labs, this initiative aims to address the growing demand for nursing professionals in South Carolina, supported by funding from the state assembly and federal grants. The facility, along with a partnership with Self Regional Healthcare, seeks to enhance nursing education and support students through scholarships and innovative training methods.
Greenwood, SC – Lander University celebrated National Nurses Day on May 6, 2025, by breaking ground on a new nursing facility aimed at enhancing resources for nursing students. The facility, which will feature advanced simulation laboratories, classrooms, laboratory monitoring rooms, and collaborative study areas, is expected to address the increasing demand for nursing professionals in the state.
Funding for the project has been secured through the South Carolina General Assembly, which allocated resources in 2021. Recognizing the growing need for healthcare workers, particularly nurses, the assembly’s initiative is backed by additional federal funding obtained in 2024. These funds will be used to integrate interactive classroom technology and simulation equipment into the new building, thereby modernizing the educational environment for nursing majors.
This nursing facility will be the third dedicated building on Lander University’s campus, joining Barratt Hall and the Self Regional Healthcare Nursing Skills Simulation Center. The partnership between Lander University and Self Regional Healthcare has been instrumental in nurturing nursing talent; they are known for the Self Scholars Program that rewards exceptional nursing students with scholarships.
Currently, it is projected that 43% of the nursing students graduating in the spring of 2025 will begin their careers at Self Regional, highlighting the successful collaboration between the institution and local healthcare providers. Lander University’s President, Richard Cosentino, noted the importance of the new facility in fulfilling the state’s urgent need for qualified nursing personnel.
Self Regional Healthcare’s President and CEO, Dr. Matt Logan, emphasized the significance of their partnership with Lander, indicating that their focus is on creating not only educational opportunities but also career pathways for students. Dean of the School of Nursing, Dr. Holisa Wharton, spoke on the ongoing efforts to improve healthcare access and introduce innovative practices within nursing education.
As part of the National Nurses Day celebration, the Greenwood County Medical Alliance awarded two annual $500 scholarships to nursing students Alana Brown from Lander University and Cadence Ables from Piedmont Technical College. Additionally, a ceremony recognized 32 students graduating with Bachelor of Science degrees in nursing from Lander University. Keynote speaker Dr. Amber Lee Walston, a pediatric neurologist, addressed the graduates during this milestone event.
Several awards were distributed to outstanding nursing graduates during the recognition ceremony, including:
- Faculty Award of Excellence awarded to Savannah Jo Reinhardt.
- Clinical Excellence Award presented to Leanna Usry.
- Professional Development Award given to Savanna Smith.
- Nursing Athletic Award received by Casey Wooten.
- Nursing Leadership Award awarded to Devon Hoskins.
Brandy Goar, the senior class representative, highlighted the invaluable support provided by Lander’s nursing faculty, emphasizing how this support has been instrumental in the students’ academic journeys and success.
The development of the new nursing facility at Lander University underscores a commitment to advancing nursing education and meeting the growing healthcare needs of the community. As the demand for qualified nurses continues to rise, this initiative positions Lander University to play a pivotal role in training the next generation of healthcare professionals.
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Additional Resources
- Lander University Nursing Expansion
- Wikipedia: Nursing
- Area Students Win Nursing Scholarships
- Google Search: Nursing Education
- Lander Recognizes Nursing Graduates
- Google Scholar: Nursing Scholarships
- Lander Receives Funding for Nursing Technology Upgrades
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nursing Technology
- Lander’s Commencement
- Google News: Lander University
