Fort Valley State University Nursing Program Earns Accreditation from ACEN

Fort Valley State University's Department of Nursing announces that its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program has received official accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This milestone marks a historic moment for FVSU, expanding access to quality nursing education and strengthening the pipeline of nurses prepared to serve rural and underserved communities across Georgia and the nation.

The program completed its initial accreditation site visit February 11-13, 2025, and successfully met all standards set forth by the accrediting body. In its report, ACEN highlighted the program's innovative collaboration with the FVSU Cooperative Extension and Mobile Health Unit, which provides students with non-traditional clinical and service opportunities in rural communities. These experiences give nursing students a broader worldview of healthcare disparities and prepare them to make meaningful impacts in underserved areas.

"This accreditation not only validates the quality of our program, but it also fulfills a promise to our students and our community," said dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Eyualem Abebe, Ph.D. "By producing highly skilled nurses, we are addressing Georgia's critical nursing shortage, while opening new doors of opportunity for our students. I am incredibly proud of Dr. Greene and her team for achieving this milestone and grateful to FVSU's visionary leadership and our partners who share our vision for healthier communities."

FVSU's BSN program was approved by the University System of Georgia Board of Regents in 2021 and welcomed its inaugural class in Fall 2023. The program is housed in the newly renovated Meyers Hall, featuring simulation rooms, skills labs and modern classroom spaces. Investments from Atrium Health Navicent, Phoebe Putney Health System and Kaiser Permanente have further strengthened the program by expanding clinical training opportunities, simulation access and career pathways for graduates.

"Achieving accreditation is the result of hard work, perseverance and faith," said Lawanda Greene, DNP, founding director of the nursing program. "I am deeply grateful to our faculty, staff, students and the FVSU community for their support and dedication. This recognition affirms our commitment to preparing competent, compassionate nurses who will transform healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved communities."

Interest in the program continues to grow, with 49 current students enrolled in the BSN program and more than 328 students pursuing pre-nursing, reflecting strong demand for nursing education at FVSU. Applications are now open and the deadline to apply is January 31, 2026. Visit www.FVSU.edu/Nursing for more information.

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