Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) hosted a celebration this week recognizing a $3,500 donation from We Work for Health in support of the College’s Accelerated Nursing Program. The event brought together College leadership, faculty, students, and state legislators to highlight the impact of the program on Maine’s healthcare workforce.
Speakers included SMCC President Kristen Miller, Assistant Dean of Nursing Jessica Dreves, Speaker of the House Ryan Fecteau, and Accelerated Nursing student Hannah Young. Each shared reflections on the importance of education and community partnerships in addressing Maine’s nursing shortage and supporting students on the fast track to their careers.
“Strengthening our healthcare workforce is a crucial part of keeping Maine people healthy,” said House Speaker Ryan Fecteau. “Programs like SMCC’s Nursing Associate Degree training are preparing compassionate, motivated individuals for rewarding and well-paying careers in our communities. I congratulate SMCC on receiving this grant from We Work for Health to continue training the new nurses we need right here in Maine.”
In her remarks, Dreves shared the story of how the Accelerated Nursing Program came to life just over a year ago — an initiative sparked by a call from the Maine Department of Labor and made possible through the commitment of SMCC’s nursing faculty.
“Our faculty stepped up — committing to teach through the summer and reimagine how best to support our students in this new, fast-paced model,” Dreves said. “I’m incredibly proud to share that 21 of those students successfully completed the program and are now on track to graduate this December.”
Hannah Young, a current Accelerated Nursing student, shared her personal journey and the meaning of the program’s support.
“Your support directly impacts students’ lives — it makes it realistic for people with families, financial barriers, and responsibilities to pursue nursing,” Young said. “Thanks to your support, that path is achievable for more people like me.”
Following the speaking program, guests toured SMCC’s Health Sciences Building, including its state-of-the-art simulation labs. The tours were led by current Accelerated Nursing students, faculty, and staff, offering visitors a firsthand look at how SMCC prepares students with the technical and interpersonal skills needed to succeed in healthcare settings.
Kevin Burke, representing We Work for Health, was on hand to celebrate the organization’s contribution and the collaboration it represents between education and industry.
Legislators in attendance included Speaker Ryan Fecteau of Biddeford; Rep. Holly Sargent of York; Rep. Traci Gere of Kennebunkport; Rep. Kelly Murphy of Scarborough; Sen. Henry Ingwersen of Arundel; Sen. Teresa Pierce of Falmouth; and Rep. Michele Meyer of Eliot.
The Accelerated Nursing Program at SMCC provides an intensive, hands-on pathway for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing in just 18 months. The program is helping to meet Maine’s growing need for highly trained, compassionate nurses ready to serve their communities.