UNCW Partners with Novant On Nursing Pipeline Program
Photo: JackBailey/UNCW
The College of Health and Human Services at UNC Wilmington and Novant Health have launched the Novant Health VITALS Accelerator Program to prepare incoming students for careers in nursing and help address the healthcare workforce shortage in southeastern North Carolina.
VITALS addresses financial and academic barriers to degree completion and supports aspiring nurses through immersive experiences, academic preparation, and the development of a strong professional network. Student Success Coordinator, Pipeline Initiatives Naamah Noble serves as the program coordinator for VITALS. “It’s an exciting opportunity that allows me to contribute to addressing the nursing shortage in Southeastern North Carolina,” she said.
Starting in their freshman year, students in the VITALS cohort take exclusive courses during both fall and spring semesters, offering a curriculum tailored to their future in healthcare, as VITALS Scholars. In addition to academic preparation, students participate in professional development and community-building experiences designed to recruit, train, and retain a healthcare workforce that is responsive to the needs of the region. Participants begin with a five-week Summer Bridge Program during the second summer session prior to their freshman year. This helps students build confidence, connect with peers, and prepare for the academic and professional journey ahead.
“This program has strengthened the relationship between Novant and UNCW,” Noble said. “Our shared commitment to addressing the nursing shortage and creating pathways for educational and professional growth have reinforced our shared mission to address healthcare challenges throughout our region.” To help reduce financial barriers, the VITALS program also offers scholarship opportunities to support students during their two-year nursing program. Interested students must apply before their freshman year and must indicate an interest in nursing on the UNCW admissions application to be considered. While admission is not guaranteed, this is the only opportunity to apply to the program.
Reacting to the success of the program, Noble said, “It feels amazing to see the VITALS program come to life and successfully engage students. To see it develop from a concept into something that benefits both students and the community is truly rewarding. Our students continue to inspire me, and I am proud to be part of a program that helps them grow and succeed.”
VITALS addresses financial and academic barriers to degree completion and supports aspiring nurses through immersive experiences, academic preparation, and the development of a strong professional network. Student Success Coordinator, Pipeline Initiatives Naamah Noble serves as the program coordinator for VITALS. “It’s an exciting opportunity that allows me to contribute to addressing the nursing shortage in Southeastern North Carolina,” she said.
Starting in their freshman year, students in the VITALS cohort take exclusive courses during both fall and spring semesters, offering a curriculum tailored to their future in healthcare, as VITALS Scholars. In addition to academic preparation, students participate in professional development and community-building experiences designed to recruit, train, and retain a healthcare workforce that is responsive to the needs of the region. Participants begin with a five-week Summer Bridge Program during the second summer session prior to their freshman year. This helps students build confidence, connect with peers, and prepare for the academic and professional journey ahead.
“This program has strengthened the relationship between Novant and UNCW,” Noble said. “Our shared commitment to addressing the nursing shortage and creating pathways for educational and professional growth have reinforced our shared mission to address healthcare challenges throughout our region.” To help reduce financial barriers, the VITALS program also offers scholarship opportunities to support students during their two-year nursing program. Interested students must apply before their freshman year and must indicate an interest in nursing on the UNCW admissions application to be considered. While admission is not guaranteed, this is the only opportunity to apply to the program.
Reacting to the success of the program, Noble said, “It feels amazing to see the VITALS program come to life and successfully engage students. To see it develop from a concept into something that benefits both students and the community is truly rewarding. Our students continue to inspire me, and I am proud to be part of a program that helps them grow and succeed.”
This article has the following tags: Academics College of Health & Human Services School of Nursing