To strengthen health care education and address the statewide nurse shortage, the Georgia Board of Health Care Workforce has granted $500,000 to Gordon State College for the purpose of growing its nursing programs.
Gordon Executive Director of Advancement Natalie Rischbieter commented, “This investment will enhance our nursing program, expand access for students, and prepare highly skilled, compassionate health care professionals to address the growing needs of communities across Georgia.”
Gordon State College plans to use the funding to strengthen its nursing pipeline through a series of targeted upgrades, including adding a new faculty member, replacing outdated training manikins, and upgrading seven simulation VOX stations. The initiative will also introduce advanced AI-assisted simulation management and electronic health record training systems, positioning students with the tools and experience needed for today’s evolving medical field.
Interim Dean of the School of Nursing, Dr. Samantha Bishop added, “It is essential that students train in environments that reflect the complexity of modern clinical settings. High-fidelity simulation will allow students to safely practice critical decision-making and clinical skills, ultimately improving patient safety and outcomes.”
The grant will increase the nursing school’s enrollment capacity to 275 students, with the possibility of growing to 300 students. Alongside increased capacity, the funding will provide stronger support for faculty, boost student retention efforts, and better equip students for clinical work in critical areas such as pediatrics and adult acute care.
GSC reported that about 70% of nursing students at Gordon State College live within the college’s immediate service area. Many choose to remain in the local area after graduation, helping meet local healthcare needs.
Highlighting that local impact, GSC President Donald J. Green said the college’s continued investment in healthcare education is directly benefiting the surrounding community, noting that “through strong partnerships with regional health care providers, Gordon State continues to build a sustainable workforce pipeline that supports both local and statewide systems.”
At the end of the day, this $500,000 investment comes back home.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
