Emory & Henry formally unveils new nursing program

Emory & Henry College formally introduced Dean Laurie Ferguson and the institution’s School of Nursing that will welcome its first students this fall.

The Washington County, Virginia college announced the formation of the new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program in December along with the hire of Ferguson who has 36 years of experience as a nurse practitioner.

Ferguson said during her remarks on Thursday that the pandemic has placed a premium on the job and skill nurses provide while serving as the largest job field in the medical profession in the US

“The COVID-19 has highlighted the need for more nurses and underscored the need to shift from acute care to more population focus and community-based care,” she said.

Ballad Health has offered their facilities to help in nurse development and Emory & Henry School of Health Sciences Vice President Lou Fincher said accreditation requirements are being assessed and completed with the hopes of certification in the fall.

(IMAGE: Emory & Henry College)