St. John Fisher University Launches Fisher Nursing Opportunity Program to Strengthen Pathways for the Nursing Workforce
The Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fisher University has announced the launch of the Fisher Nursing Opportunity Program, a comprehensive new pilot initiative designed to support Pell-eligible incoming nursing students.
Funded in part by a grant from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust, and supported by a previous grant from the Wegmans Family Foundation focused on strengthening the healthcare workforce in Monroe County, the Fisher Nursing Opportunity Program provides a year-round network of academic, social, and financial support to help students thrive while pursuing their educational goals. Eligible students will receive room and board scholarships and a stipend to support on-campus living and engagement.
“This program represents Fisher’s dedication to ensuring that every aspiring nurse has the opportunity, preparation, and support to succeed, further broadening our commitment to access and affordability,” said Dr. Gerard J. Rooney, president of Fisher. “By investing in students early and holistically, we are investing in the health of our communities.”
Beginning this summer, the inaugural cohort of students will participate in a residential five-week institute—running July 7-August 8—focused on academic readiness and early exposure to the nursing profession. In addition to the academic portion, the institute will include simulation experiences in the School’s state-of-the-art Glover-Crask Simulation Center and in the AR/VR simulation classrooms, and engage in clinical experiences, service projects, résumé and interview workshops, and social events as well.
Students will also participate in nursing assistant training and be eligible to take the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) certification, enabling them to get early clinical experience and immediate employment opportunities within the healthcare workforce. In addition, they will benefit from the School of Nursing’s strong partnerships with local healthcare agencies that provide paid, career-aligned employment during the academic year.
Throughout the academic year, students will also receive sustained academic coaching, tutoring, mentoring, and financial aid guidance.
Dr. Tricia Gatlin, dean of the School of Nursing, said that the program is designed to elevate students’ academic and professional trajectories.
“The program creates an ecosystem of support that meets students where they are and helps them build toward where they want to go,” said Gatlin. “This model has the potential to transform how we prepare the next generation of nurses.”
For more information, visit the Wegmans School of Nursing website.