Cornerstone University’s new School of Health, Science and Technology just graduated its first class of nurses under the leadership of its first dean, Dr. Misty Emmons. She says as a faith-based university, the nursing program focuses on a holistic approach, teaching that providing great care means addressing a patient’s physical, mental and spiritual needs.
“We recognize that our patients aren’t always going to have the same faith background as we do so we talk about that and how we care for other people that many not have our same beliefs. But really its such an important piece of who we are at Cornerstone and the nursing program we have.”
In getting the program accredited, Emmons examined the national nursing shortage and considered what nursing education of the future will look like.
“We’ve increased opportunities for our students to be hands-on in the community, to be in our simulation room and not just learning from a textbook what it means to be a nurse but let’s get out there and actually do that.”
Expanding community partnerships means students have the chance to work while going to school and learn about options outside a hospital setting with jobs at in-home care programs and long-term assisted living facilities.
“The students we prepare to be nurses have the ability to be flexible and adaptable and care for people where their needs are not just where we want them to be.”
Emmons also says as a new program, Cornerstone doesn’t have a waitlist like other area nursing programs.
“We’ve been able to offer students the opportunity to get in and start their educational track faster and get out to be a nurse sooner.”
Emmons is also the Chief Nursing Administrator and assistant professor, and as dean will oversee the science and technology programs as well.
