Wednesday, May 7, 2008

Capital Health Plan Announces Investment in FAMU's Nursing Education

Capital Health Plan (CHP) announced it will invest over the next five years a total of $1.5 million in nursing education programs at Florida A&M University, Florida State University, and Tallahassee Community College. The initiative is aimed at alleviating a growing nursing shortage in this area and throughout Florida. Demand for new nurses in Florida is expected to grow by nearly one quarter or more than 36,000 new jobs by 2014.

“Capital Health Plan is proud to invest in nursing education,” said Dr. Nancy Van Vessem, CHP’s Chief Medical Officer, speaking at a news conference held on National Nurses Day. “Today’s nursing students are the professionals who’ll care for CHP members and the community for years to come.”

The grants will total $100,000 a year for five years for each school. The State of Florida might match 50 percent, potentially increasing the total investment to $2.25 million.

“The cost of college is a barrier that many of our students face,” said FAMU President James H. Ammons. “With CHP’s generous investment, we will break down that barrier for local students who are interested in nursing. We believe that these students are likely to stay and fill the need for nurses in the capital region.”

FAMU President James H. Ammons, Ruena Norman, interim dean of the FAMU School of Nursing and FAMU nursing students are all smiles after Capital Health Plan announces its investment in FAMU's nursing program.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Nancy Van Vessem died very unexpectedly. She was the cousin of Abraham Lincoln!