BTC Given Over $172k Grant for Faculty & Preceptor Development 

    We are excited to share that Bolivar Technical College has recently been awarded a substantial grant of over $172,000 from the Missouri State Board of Nursing aimed at enhancing faculty and preceptor development within the institution. This grant, which will help lower tuition for Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs and facilitate participation in conferences and other development programs, emphasizes our commitment to advancing the skills and expertise of our faculty members. 

    The generous grant, part of a larger $5 million initiative approved by Governor Mike Parson for nursing education programs across the state, is a testament to the significance placed on improving healthcare education in Missouri. 

    Erin Mock RN-MSN, Director of Nursing Education at Bolivar Technical College, emphasized the importance of having well-prepared nursing faculty in schools. “We’ve got to make sure that we’ve got nursing schools that are ready to take all qualified applicants, and that we have nursing faculty that are prepared to give them an excellent education so that they can enter the workforce ready to become nurses,” said Mrs. Mock. Watch the full interview with KY3 here. 

    One major aspect of the grant is the provision of financial support for faculty pursuing advanced degrees, such as MSN programs. By partially covering tuition costs, the grant aims to empower faculty members with the latest knowledge and skills, ensuring they are well-equipped to educate the next generation of nurses. 

    Additionally, the grant allocates funds specifically for preceptor development, with an earmarked $43,000 for this purpose. Preceptors play a crucial role in the clinical training of nursing students, guiding them through real-world experiences in healthcare facilities. The investment in preceptor development aligns with the broader goal of enhancing the quality of education provided by faculty at Bolivar Technical College. 

    Notably, a portion of the grant will be directed towards hiring two skilled support staff at BTC. Plans are in place to add a Simulation Technician and Administrative Assistant to the team. These support staff members will allow BTC faculty to work at top of license, providing excellent educational experiences for nursing students. 

    The grant from Governor Mike Parson reflects a statewide commitment to addressing the growing demand for well-trained nursing professionals. BTC, as a recipient of this funding, is at the forefront of driving positive advancement in nursing education. The college’s proactive approach to utilizing the grant for faculty and preceptor development underscores our dedication to providing high-quality education and producing competent and compassionate nursing professionals.  

Check back here for updates on how our faculty and preceptors are using this grant and the impact it’s having right here in Bolivar!