FREEPORT —Highland’s Nursing and Allied Health program has more than one perfect reason to celebrate this spring.
The National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX), the nationwide examination for the licensing of nurses, reported a “first attempt” pass rate of 100 percent for the Highland Community College nursing program graduating class of 2024. To put things in perspective, the national average is 91 percent and the average Illinois pass rate was 85 percent for 2024.
“This was no accident. It’s what happens when an amazing team digs deep to transform a program and support their students,” said Dr. Stephanie Eymann, DNP, RN, Dean of Nursing and Allied Health at Highland.
The path to 100 percent hasn’t been easy, but it is rewarding. After COVID ushered in a dramatic drop in pass rates both locally and nationally, Dr. Eymann and her team got to work.
From implementing remediation support for students with “at risk” grades to providing all students with free, specialized tutoring, their efforts are paying off. Additionally, the department has elevated hands-on learning. In 2022, Highland cut the ribbon on a new simulation hospital, and last fall, they unveiled a mobile medical unit.
“We are sending a clear message to prospective students in our district: you will find an exceptional healthcare education right here in your community,” said Eymann.
Eymann explained a large part of their students’ success is because their faculty never view “good enough” as good enough. Up-to-date research and effective tools guide curriculum development. This approach isn’t limited to their registered nurse pathway.
Just last month, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) conducted a compliance review of Highland’s Basic Nursing Assistant Program and reported a perfect score. Cassie Mekeel, BSN, RN, serves as Highland’s Basic Nursing Assistant Coordinator. She explained why the IDPH’s latest review was a major affirmation.
“I was thrilled to open that email from the IDPH that congratulated us on a perfect visit,” said Mekeel.
The IDPH stated the perfect score as “truly rare” and expressed their appreciation for Highland’s investment in the program and excellent state exam scores, adding that their Basic Nursing Assistant Program “stands out in the best way possible!”
“I was elated to share the news with our team,” said Mekeel. “But more importantly, we are all excited to affirm we are providing our students with the training and skills they need to confidently enter the workplace and make a positive impact on their patients and community.”
Highland’s Nursing and Allied Health Department offers a variety of healthcare career pathways, including Medical Assistant, C.N.A/Basic Nursing Assistant, Phlebotomy and Nursing.
Students can complete some programs in as little as five to 12 weeks. Not only are these programs affordable, but each year, the Highland Community College Foundation awards $50,000 in scholarships and grants to students who are seeking a healthcare education.
To learn more about Highland’s healthcare career pathways, contact Dr. Eymann at 815-599-3439 or e-mail her at stephanie.eymann@highland.edu. Prospective students can also request more information about these and other programs at Highland.edu/request-information.