A new chapter in Fort Worth healthcare began on January 13 as the University of North Texas Health Science Center welcomed its inaugural class of 30 nursing students. This marks the launch of HSC’s first on-campus nursing program, designed to combat Texas’ critical nursing shortage.
A growing, aging population in North Texas is projected to cause a shortage of 15,700 nurses by 2030. While recent improvements have lowered nurse vacancy rates from 18% in 2022 to 8%, the pandemic’s impact and declining national exam pass rates pose ongoing challenges.
HSC aims to graduate highly competent nurses, ready for residency programs, under the guidance of Dean Cindy Weston and curriculum architect Darla Gruben. Students like Tobechi Duru and Sarah Pappoe bring personal stories of inspiration and dedication to the profession, showcasing the human side of this vital field.
For Ciara McCarthy’s full story, visit Fort Worth Star-Telegram.com.
