McKendree Offers On-Site BSN Classes at Hardin Memorial Hospital
McKendree University and Hardin Memorial Hospital (HMH) in Elizabethtown, Ky., are
partnering to provide on-site classes for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in nursing for HMH nursing staff members.
“In addition to supporting our nursing workforce, research demonstrates having a BSN
helps improve patient outcomes,” said Sharon Wright, MSN, RN, HMH vice president and
chief nursing officer. “We’re thrilled to be able to offer our employees the opportunity
to further their education right here at the hospital.”
The idea stemmed from a conversation between Wright and Dr. Richelle Rennegarbe ’92, nursing division chair at McKendree, about advancing education and patient care
while helping students balance their work schedules. McKendree offers an on-site RN-to-BSN
program at two southern Illinois hospitals; this partnership is its first in Kentucky.
“Hardin Memorial Hospital has a stellar reputation in the field of nursing. We felt
a partnership to offer our RN-to-BSN program with them would be a win-win for both
of our organizations,” Richelle said.
