1/19/24

By FHSU University Communications

HAYS, Kan. – United in their commitment to addressing the critical shortage of nursing professionals in Kansas and the nation, Fort Hays State University and the presidents of 11 Kansas community colleges signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) today on a new guaranteed admission program ensuring Kansas community college nursing graduates admission to FHSU. The event took place in the State Capital Building in Topeka. The presidents were joined by Senate Majority Leader Larry Allen, state Senator Rick Billinger, and state representatives Barbara Wasinger, Ken Rahjes, Dr. Bill Clifford, and Dr. Ron Bryce.

Data from the National Council of State Boards of Nursing indicates that 100,000 nurses left the workforce during the pandemic. The Kansas Department of Labor's 2022 Occupational Outlook report shows that by 2026, the state will face a shortfall of more than 18,000 registered nurses. The impact in rural Kansas is especially dire, and hospitals now face nursing shortages that could lead to closures.

“This workforce-focused partnership is an example of Kansas higher education at its best,” FHSU President Tisa Mason said. “While this guaranteed admission program in nursing is new, our long-standing partnerships with Kansas’ community colleges have contributed greatly to the quality of higher education in our state.” 

Under the terms of the MOU, FHSU will provide guaranteed admission to students who have completed an accredited nursing program, hold a current Registered Nurse (RN) license, and meet all other FHSU admission requirements. The signing of this MOU follows a recent approval by the Kansas State Board of Nursing for the university to move from 65 to 90 students admitted per year to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Heather Morgan, executive director of the Kansas Association of Community Colleges, framed this partnership as an excellent opportunity to expand student access and affordability across Kansas.

“Under this agreement, our students will enjoy a seamless opportunity to advance in their nursing careers, secure in the knowledge that they will be accepted into the FHSU BSN program,” Morgan said.

The RN to BSN program at FHSU plays an integral role in advancing the education of nurses from across Kansas and the US. The BSN degree opens the door to higher-level degrees, including FHSU's Master in Nursing Education or Nursing Administration or the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree that allows a nursing professional to become a Family Nurse Practitioner.

“Our faculty do an amazing job of listening to students and employers, with a continual goal to keep courses engaging and impactful,” said FHSU Department of Nursing Chair Dr. Jenny Manry. “We are excited to launch this partnership, and we look forward to the opportunity to better serve nursing students from across Kansas.”

Contacts:

Heather Morgan, Executive Director, Kansas Association of Community Colleges, hmorgan@eacct.org

Scott Cason, Chief Communications Officer, Fort Hays State University, sacason@fhsu.edu.