Lead Agency: Delta State University Robert E. Smith School of Nursing
Through this project, Delta State University anticipates being able to effect sustainable growth in both the quantity and quality of nurses serving in our region, improve job satisfaction, and ultimately contribute to the region’s economic development through a healthier, more effective work force. The project proposes four goals as follows:

1. To increase capacity and improve resources of the Delta State University School of Nursing,
2. To increase both quality and quantity of applications to programs of the Delta State University School of Nursing,
3. To reduce attrition of nursing students and improve graduation rates,
4. To increase the number of nursing students who elect to remain in the Delta region and practice after graduation.

This project also supports what is formerly known as project #19, the Healthcare Workforce Initiative. The Healthcare Workforce Initiative is implemented through the Office of Nursing Work force and aims to meet the following goals:

1. To successfully implement a nursing extern program in collaboration with Delta hospitals,
2. To partner with schools of nursing, Healthcare facilities, and NOW to plan, implement and collect data on the StudentMax™ Clinical placement program.

Since the inception of the Nursing project in 2006, the School of Nursing enrollment tripled during fall 2010 with more than 200 students enrolledl. Ninety six percent (96.55%) of the class graduating in fall 2010 passed the NCLEX-RN on first write, with 100% passing on the second write; the overall (since the first graduation class) pass rate is 94%.

In addition, 80% of the BSN nursing class that graduated in 2007, 43% of the BSN nursing class that graduated in 2008, 66% of the BSN nursing class that graduated in 2009, and 78% of the BSN nursing class that graduated in 2010, signed contracts to practice nursing in the Yazoo-Mississippi Delta region. Continuation of these activities is anticipated to continue to have a positive effect on DSU School of Nursing enrollment, retention and ultimately in increased numbers of DSU nursing graduates staying to practice nursing in this region.

The program now boasts a state-of-the-art facility, including new simulation and computer labs, which will aid greatly in clinic skills and program sustainability.  Additionally, the project continues its growth programmatically, including seeking approval to bring in-house the DNP program.  The program recognizes the importance of preceptors to the placement and retention of nurses and continues to use the services of ONW (formerly Project #19).