On Tuesday, November 1, Marian University’s Ancilla College hosted a blessing and open house for its new, state-of-the-art nursing simulation and laboratory.
The Leighton School of Nursing Simulation and Leep Family Skills Laboratory blessing and open house allowed attendees to see the latest technology being used to educate and enhance the skills of students participating in Ancilla’s four-year Bachelor of Science (BSN) in nursing program. The program was created to fulfill Indiana’s nursing shortage and continue to meet the higher education needs of northern Indiana students.
“More highly skilled and well-trained nurses are greatly needed in our northern Indiana communities and across the state. Through Marian University’s Leighton School of Nursing, students who are called to make a difference in this in-demand profession have a new bachelor’s degree opportunity close to home,” said Marian University’s Ancilla College Chancellor Joseph Heidt. “In thanks to a few generous donors and supporters, we are able to open a new nursing simulation and skills lab so we can continue to fulfill our mission to achieving excellence in learning through scholarly activities in the Franciscan and liberal arts tradition. We are hopeful to make additional enhancements in the near future.”
In its first year at Marian’s newest campus, the program welcomed new and continuing students, and Marian University staff and faculty continue to partner with local hospitals and other healthcare providers for clinical opportunities and internships. The new lab will help to best prepare students for these rotations through high-tech and hands-on equipment, including a newly purchased Student Auscultation Manikin.
“The nursing students will experience greater learning with the state-of-the-art simulation now available at Marian University’s Ancilla College,” said Rebecca Zellers DNP, MSN, RN, assistant dean of nursing. “Combining this learning, with the blessing of our community partners providing clinical opportunities, ensures the students receive a well-rounded nursing education.”
As Indiana continues to experience a critical need for skilled nurses, nursing student Niyoka Ashford is answering that call and realizing her nursing dreams with a BSN degree from Marian University’s Ancilla College.
Ashford was pursuing a two-year nursing associate’s degree at Ancilla when the program was transitioned into a four-year BSN degree. She said she was initially concerned, but after speaking with an instructor she decided to stay and pursue the advanced degree, and she’s glad she did.
“I look forward to just being around my nursing classmates and the environment. They are inspiring and the instructors are so helpful,” said Ashford.
