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Columbia-Greene Community College (C-GCC) in Hudson is launching a new Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program to address the critical shortage of nurses in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. The 15-month program, starting in January 2026, will offer clinical training, academic preparation, and hands-on experience. Applications are currently open, and an online information session is scheduled for tonight at 6:30 p.m.
The program is designed to meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals, particularly in rural and underserved areas. According to a press release from C-GCC, a 2024 report by the Center for Health Workforce Studies at UAlbany highlighted the persistent shortage of LPNs in various healthcare settings, making recruitment and retention challenging.
Dr. Victoria Walsh, President of C-GCC, emphasized the program's community impact, projecting that graduates could see an average annual salary increase of over $20,000. Dr. Latasha Powell, the inaugural Dean of Nursing at C-GCC, stated, "We are building a program rooted in excellence, compassion, and real-world readiness." The program will prepare students to pass the NCLEX-PN licensure examination, equipping them to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
For more information and to register for the information session, visit C-GCC's website.