GVSU, Mary Free Bed celebrate partnership that addresses nursing shortage, offers tuition assistance

Top photo: Christine Adams, simulation assistant, leads a tour of the Interprofessional Simulation Center for Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital staff during a partnership celebration with the Kirkhof College of Nursing.

Leaders at Grand Valley and Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital celebrated a partnership on April 2 designed to address a nursing talent shortage and reduce financial barriers for students pursuing a nursing degree.

Under the agreement, GVSU Kirkhof College of Nursing students interested in the program will receive tuition incentives of up to $5,000 per semester for four semesters. After graduating and passing the licensure exam, they will commit to working at Mary Free Bed for at least two years.

Linda Lewandowski, dean of the Kirkhof College of Nursing, said the partnership strengthens the nursing talent pipeline in West Michigan while providing GVSU students access to clinical experiences at Michigan's top-rated rehabilitation hospital and the soon-to-be-completed Joan Secchia Children's Rehabilitation Hospital.

"This is an innovative program that places GVSU students at its heart," Lewandowski said. "We appreciate the partnership with Mary Free Bed and this tremendous investment in our students. Mary Free Bed is a recognized leader in rehabilitative care and will offer our students a clinical experience in which they can continue engaging in interdisciplinary care."