Nursing students play a vital role in shaping the policies, culture and academic direction of the college and nursing program by actively participating in student governance, committees and program development. Student engagement enhances the educational experience, cultivates leadership skills, and demonstrates a commitment to the college’s mission of academic excellence and the nursing programs philosophy to acquire the knowledge, skills and attitudes to provide safe and quality patient centered care.

Nursing students can make significant contributions through:

• Student Senate — Advocating for student needs and contributing to policy discussions
• College Governance— Serving on the college Student Senate and its committees, including:
  • College Council — Overall college governance structure
  • Professional Development Committee — Enhancing faculty and staff skills
  • Curriculum and Learning Outcomes Committee — Developing, implementing, and evaluating academic learning and outcomes
  • Diversity Committee — Promoting equity and inclusion
  • Committee on Academic Policies (CAP) — Reviewing college academic programs, courses and policy
• Student Clubs and Organizations — Participating in or leading groups that promote professional development, community service and peer networking
• College Orientation Leaders — Assisting new students with their transition into college life by sharing insights and fostering a supportive community
• Nursing Program Development and Evaluation — Nursing students participate directly in program improvement through:
  • Student Representatives — Two representatives from each cohort meet with faculty monthly to provide feedback on program performance, policies, and student experiences. Meets monthly.
  • Advisory Committee — Offering input on program direction, curriculum innovation and alignment with industry standards. Meets once a year.
  • Policy and Handbook Development — Contributing to updates and revisions that reflect current student and academic needs. Meets once a month
  • Pinning Committee — Planning and organizing the nursing pinning ceremony, a significant milestone event. Meets once a month, then more frequently in final semester
  • Peer Tutoring and Mentorship — Supporting fellow students academically and socially. Peer tutors meet on a scheduled basis. Mentors will greet incoming students at orientation and then as scheduled or use text, email, or calls as needed.
  • Recruitment Activities — Participating in outreach and informational events to attract prospective nursing students. Meets as needed.
  • Course Surveys — Providing anonymous feedback on course objectives and outcomes to inform curriculum development
  • Graduate Surveys — Providing post-graduation feedback to inform program effectiveness and continuous improvement. Course surveys are sent six months after program completion.

By engaging in these opportunities, nursing students embody leadership, service, and advocacy, which are core to both the nursing profession and the college’s mission. Their active participation helps shape a dynamic, student-centered academic environment while preparing them for professional success.