UC Area Health Education Center invests in Southern State nursing students
Southern State nursing student Bri'Aunna Willis, utilizing the new Chester Chest™ training model made possible by the Area Health Education Center (AHEC).
By Elizabeth Burkard
Director of Marketing
Southern State Community College
Southern State Community College nursing students will gain valuable hands-on learning opportunities thanks to support from the University of Cincinnati’s (UC) Area Health Education Center (AHEC).
The funding, provided by AHEC, allowed Southern State’s nursing program to purchase a Chester Chest™ training model and IV practice pads for use in nursing skills labs and simulation. The equipment will support students in both the Practical Nursing (PN) and Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) programs as they learn, practice, and strengthen essential nursing skills.
“Having the right equipment gives our students the opportunity to practice a skill, ask questions, build confidence, and try it again before they are caring for a patient,” said Dr. Abigail Storrs, Director of Nursing at Southern State Community College. “That hands-on practice is such an important part of nursing education, and we are incredibly appreciative of AHEC’s investment in our students.”
The new equipment will be used throughout laboratory and simulation experiences and will also be available for additional skill practice and review. These experiences give students a safe environment to connect what they are learning in the classroom with the skills and clinical judgment they will need at the bedside.
The partnership closely aligns with AHEC’s mission to enhance primary and preventive healthcare in underserved rural and urban communities. AHEC works to strengthen the healthcare workforce through education, partnerships, interprofessional learning, and support of healthcare programs and providers.
For Southern State, the partnership also supports a shared commitment to preparing healthcare professionals who can meet the needs of the communities they serve.
“Many of our students have deep roots in this area, and after graduation, they stay here to work and care for their neighbors, friends, and families,” Storrs said. “We are grateful for AHEC’s support and for partnerships that allow us to continue strengthening the education and experiences we provide our nursing students.”
Southern State’s Practical Nursing and Associate Degree Nursing programs combine classroom instruction with laboratory, simulation, and clinical learning experiences to prepare students for nursing practice.
To learn more about Southern State’s nursing programs, application deadlines, and the enrollment process, please call 800.628.7722, Ext. 2640 or visit the college's website at www.sscc.edu.