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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Jean E. Swinney, PhD, RN and Christina Scharbaai, CAGS, MEd. School of Nursing, University of Massachusetts Amherst, PO Box 2484, Amherst, MA 01004, 413-545-3793, j.swinney@comcast.net

The need for diversity in the nursing workforce is well documented nationwide. In response, nursing as a profession has called for initiatives geared toward addressing the recruitment and retention of diverse nursing students. However, when prospective students are recruited from external geographical areas, there is a greater possibility that upon graduation they will return to their respective communities to work. The focus of the Embracing the Challenge (ETC) Project is on creating opportunities and providing support for area students as they will be more inclined to choose to live and practice nursing in the surrounding Massachusetts area. The ETC Project model provides participants with a variety of social, academic, and financial supports at the university, high school and middle school levels. The Project Team and Consultants are culturally and linguistically diverse and experienced in working collaboratively within community settings. The progress of participants is monitored and nurtured. There is a systemic focus within the ETC structure which allows for each student and their families in the project to receive personalized support, and advisement. The work of the Project has resulted in an increased awareness in nursing as a profession. Students who have participated in ETC activities and nursing clubs have maintained an interest in nursing and positive educational and career trajectories. During this presentation, the ETC Model and selected support activities will be illustrated and discussed. Presenters will convey the results of assessments and discuss opportunities to encourage students to enroll in nursing based experiences with the ETC Project.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation participants will be able to

• Describe at least three important elements of the Embracing the Challenge Model.
• Identify at least three key elements or activities associated with student support and success
• Identify at least three project evidenced based outcomes.

Keywords: Workforce, Nursing Education

Related Web page: www.umass.edu/loop/talkingpoints/articles/5792.php

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation