Featured image (from left): Katie Wilson, Ozarka College division chair for allied health; Dr. Chris Lorch, Ozarka College provost; Dr. Kurt Grafton, Lyon College provost and dean of the faculty; and Dr. Becky Le, director of nursing education at Lyon College.
Ozarka College and Lyon College have signed an articulation agreement to facilitate a seamless transfer pathway for students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). The agreement simplifies the transfer and degree completion of students earning the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Registered Nursing (RN) at Ozarka College to the BSN at Lyon College.
According to a release from Ozarka, this integrated approach ensures a comprehensive educational experience, combining the strengths of both institutions to produce well-qualified nursing professionals.
“Ozarka is proud to partner with Lyon College on the nursing pathway,” said Dr. Chris Lorch, provost of Ozarka College. “This collaboration will provide Ozarka’s RNs with a seamless transition to earning their BSN and advancing their careers.”
“This agreement marks a significant advancement in our dedication to offering accessible and high-quality nursing education,” said Dr. Anthony Grafton, provost of Lyon College. “Through our collaboration with Ozarka College, we can provide our students with a straightforward and effective route to reaching their professional aspirations in nursing.”
“The RN to BSN pathway at Lyon is a great opportunity for Ozarka-trained nurses to continue to pursue their nursing education right here close to home,” said Katie Wilson, Ozarka College Nursing and Allied Health division chair. “This local pathway will benefit Ozarka RNs as there is a rising demand for bachelors-degreed nurses in our regional health care systems.”
“The AAS in Registered Nursing to BSN pathway is designed to offer flexibility and support for our students. This structure not only enriches their educational journey but also prepares them to meet the diverse challenges of the healthcare industry,” said Dr. Becky Le, director of nursing education at Lyon College.
Lyon College’s RN to BSN — or post-nursing – pathway and the pre-nursing pathway for students beginning their studies on the Lyon College campus are designed to meet the growing demand for skilled nursing professionals, the release said. Students benefit from a curriculum emphasizing critical thinking, clinical skills, and compassionate patient care. Upon completion, graduates will be well-prepared to pursue advanced career opportunities and leadership roles in nursing.
“This agreement showcases our proactive strategy to tackle the regional nursing shortage. By offering a clear pathway for students, we are ensuring that more skilled and knowledgeable nurses join the workforce, ready to make a positive difference,” said Dr. Cassia Oliveira, assistant dean of the faculty and professor of biology at Lyon College.
Image provided by Ozarka College
Have a news tip or event to promote? Email White River Now at news@whiterivernow.com. Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. And don’t forget to download the White River Now mobile app from the Google Play Store or the Apple App Store.
Get up-to-date local and regional news/weather every weekday morning and afternoon from the First Community Bank Newsroom on Arkansas 103.3 KWOZ. White River Now updates are also aired weekday mornings on 93 KZLE, Outlaw 106.5, and Your FM 99.5.
