Date Posted: December 18, 2024
Southern Crescent Technical College proudly announces the graduation of the first cohort of students from the innovative LPN/Paramedic to RN Bridge Program. The milestone ceremony, held December 11, 2024, recognized the achievements of 33 nurse graduates who were pinned to signify that they have successfully completed this transformative program designed to advance their nursing careers and address critical workforce needs in healthcare.
SCTC’s new Nursing Bridge Program provides an accelerated and streamlined pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Paramedics to earn their Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) and become eligible to sit for the NCLEX-RN state board exams to become official Registered Nurses (RN). The program combines rigorous academic coursework with hands-on clinical training, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to deliver exceptional patient care in a variety of healthcare settings. It consists of three semesters, enabling participants to complete their RN education in just one year.
“I am deeply honored to celebrate the first graduating class of the LPN/Paramedic to RN Bridge cohort at Southern Crescent Technical College,” said Kim Register, SCTC Vice President for Academic Affairs. Their hard work, resilience, and passion for advancing their careers in nursing are a testament to their commitment to making a difference in healthcare and beyond. This milestone not only reflects their personal achievements but also reinforces our mission to equip students with the skills and knowledge to transform lives and serve our communities.”
The RN Bridge program provides upward mobility for students seeking career development. Graduates of the first cohort have already begun securing more advanced roles in local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, contributing to the region’s healthcare workforce and addressing a growing demand for skilled nursing professionals.
Graduates of the RN Bridge program include: Danielle Alexander, Erica Banks, Yarwin Barton, Samantha Chander, Marcia DeWeever, Kya Dominguez, Lauren Epperson, Ashley Edgin, Betty Green, Christy Hill, Whitney Hill, Kimberly Hobgood, Hannah James, Jose Jno Charles, Tamia Jones, Victoria Long-Pickle, Bethany Marbut, Jessical Mayfield, Kacey McCarty, Dena Moore, Lenard Morris, Courtney Morrison, Cathy Moss, Kaylee Normand, Jasmine Odon, Nikkara Page, Jennifer Snyder, Amanda Stubbs, Brnadon Thompson, Marquite Williams, Desiree’ Wilson, and Antrice Wynn.
Erin Jones, SCTC Nursing Department Chair said, “The inaugural pinning ceremony honors this special group of student nurses, recognizing their dedication and achievements as they step into the future of nursing. This milestone symbolizes a pivotal step in addressing healthcare needs and marks the expansion of opportunities for aspiring nurses. We have recently announced plans to expand the RN Bridge program in the coming year and are extremely excited to further strengthen the profession.”
“The RN Bridge program has been life-changing for me,” said graduate Lauren Epperson. “It allowed me to be physically and financially present for my family and provided me with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take the next step in my nursing career.”
As demand for skilled nurses continues to rise statewide, SCTC is committed to providing high-quality, accessible education that meets the needs of both students and the community. The success of this first graduating class reflects the program’s effectiveness and the college’s dedication to fostering career-ready graduates.