Wayne College receives grant for ADN program
The University of Akron Wayne College recently announced the receipt of a grant from the Carl E. Congdon Jr. and Susanna Congdon McIntyre Memorial Fund at Wayne County Community Foundation.
These funds will be used to support Wayne College’s Nursing Space and Equipment initiative, a facilities improvement-based project aimed at providing dedicated lab and classroom space and specialized equipment for the associate degree in nursing program offered at Wayne College. This initiative underscores Wayne College’s commitment to addressing regional health care needs by providing advanced educational opportunities to aspiring health care professionals.
The Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program, which welcomed its first cohort in the spring 2025 semester, provides students with the foundational knowledge and hands-on training needed to become a registered nurse. The accelerated pathway offers a direct route to RN licensure while also serving as a steppingstone toward the Bachelor of Science in Nursing for those pursuing advanced nursing roles.
With the growing demand for registered nurses in Wayne County and rural areas, the ADN program aims to strengthen the local health care workforce. Graduates are positioned for employment at institutions such as Wooster Community Hospital, Aultman Orrville and Akron Children’s Hospital.
Nearly 100 students are currently completing prerequisites, with 40 new students expected annually starting fall 2025.
“This is an exciting time for our ADN program at Wayne College,” said Amber Murray, director of the ADN program. “With access to advanced facilities and specialized equipment, our students will gain the hands-on experience needed to become confident, highly skilled registered nurses. We are incredibly grateful for this support as we prepare them to make a meaningful impact in health care.”