NASHVILLE, TN - Two major healthcare and education organizations are teaming up to highlight career opportunities in one of the nation’s most in-demand fields... Dr. Tia Bell, Dean of the Marian University - Leighton School of Nursing, told WGNS in a recent interview that the continued need for nurses will remain overwhelmingly high until at least 2035.
Residents in Rutherford, Davidson, and surrounding counties are invited to attend the annual “Come Explore Nursing,” scheduled for Tuesday, April 21, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Ascension Saint Thomas Hospital West in Nashville.
The initiative, a collaboration between Ascension Saint Thomas and Marian University’s Leighton School of Nursing, is designed to introduce prospective students to a wide range of career pathways in the nursing field.
Organizers say the program will provide attendees with direct access to admissions staff, faculty, current students, alumni, and nursing leadership. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about educational programs, ask questions, and explore how to enter or advance in the healthcare field.
“This is a chance for students to learn firsthand all that nursing has to offer,” said Tia Bell, dean of Marian University’s Leighton School of Nursing.
Marian University offers several pathways into nursing, including an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program. The 16-month program is designed for individuals who already hold a degree and want to transition into nursing quickly through a combination of online coursework, hands-on labs, and clinical experiences.
The university also offers advanced training through its Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program, which includes a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) track. Graduates of the program are prepared to work in high-demand settings such as hospitals, trauma centers, and delivery rooms.
The event comes at a critical time, as both national and local projections point to a growing need for healthcare professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that demand for nurses will grow by 5% through 2034, while the Tennessee Hospital Association projects a shortfall of approximately 8,500 nurses in the state by 2035.
That demand is expected to increase further with regional growth. Ascension Saint Thomas is currently planning a new full-service hospital in Clarksville-Montgomery County, a $148.5 million project expected to create about 250 healthcare jobs and expand access to care in the area.
“Nurses are the backbone of the healthcare system,” said Misa Ewing, vice president and chief nursing officer at Ascension Saint Thomas. “This event will underscore the important work we do and the many opportunities for those interested in entering the field.”
The April 21 event is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register in advance.
