Waynesburg U. holds Nursing Community Partnership Luncheon

Waynesburg University welcomed healthcare leaders, clinical and community partners, and University representatives to campus Wednesday, July 22, for its Nursing Community Partnership Luncheon, an event focused on strengthening collaboration, advancing nursing education and addressing the healthcare workforce needs of southwestern Pennsylvania.

The luncheon brought together representatives from regional healthcare systems and community organizations to discuss opportunities for partnership while highlighting the University's continued investment in preparing the next generation of nurses.

"Strong partnerships with our clinical and community partners are essential to preparing highly qualified nurses and addressing the healthcare needs of our region," said Dr. Sherry Zak, chair of the Department of Nursing and director of Nursing. "We are grateful for the opportunity to bring so many healthcare leaders together to share ideas, strengthen existing relationships and explore new ways we can work together to support our students, our partners and the communities we serve."

During the event, Dr. Zak provided an overview of Waynesburg University's nursing programs, including the traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the new Hybrid LPN-to-BSN, and the Hybrid Second-Degree BSN which recently graduated its first-ever cohort. The presentation also highlighted the department's continued growth, student success and future initiatives. Two current nursing students, Gabrielle Chico (incoming junior) and Ethan Mata (incoming senior), spoke to attendees about their learning experiences both inside the classroom and in their hands-on clinical settings.

Attendees learned about the University's innovative approach to nursing education through advanced learning technologies, including the Clinical Learning Center, the Immersion Room, high-fidelity simulation experiences and artificial intelligence-enhanced learning tools that help prepare students for today's healthcare environments.

The luncheon included a discussion centered on healthcare workforce development, clinical education, student placement opportunities and strategies for expanding partnerships between Waynesburg University and regional healthcare organizations. Following the discussion, guests toured the University's Clinical Learning Center and Immersion Room in Stewart Science Hall.

Attendees included healthcare professionals and leaders from UPMC Pittsburgh, UPMC Washington, UPMC Greene, Greene Arc, Blueprints, Intermediate Unit 1 and the Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Agency on Aging.

By fostering collaboration among healthcare providers, educators and community organizations, the Nursing Community Partnership Luncheon reflects Waynesburg University's ongoing commitment to strengthening nursing education and helping meet the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals throughout the region.

About Waynesburg U.

Consistently ranked a best value school, Waynesburg University's Strategy for the 21st Century affirms its commitment to developing an entrepreneurial mindset and ethical leadership skills for all students. Rooted in its mission of faith, learning and service, the private, Christian university is located on a traditional campus in the hills of southwestern Pennsylvania.

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