Event offers a first look into simulation lab and other high-tech nursing training available To MUAC’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing students
On Tuesday, Nov. 1, Marian University’s Ancilla College is hosting a blessing and open house for its new, state-of-the-art nursing simulation and 
laboratory.
The Leighton School of Nursing Simulation and Leep Family Skills Laboratory blessing and open house will allow attendees to see the latest technology being used to educate and enhance the skills of students participating in Marian’s four-year Bachelor of Science (BSN) in nursing program. The program was created to fulfill Indiana’s nursing shortage and continue to meet the higher education needs to northern Indiana students.
“More highly-skilled and well-trained nurses are greatly needed in our communities and across the state. Through Marian University’s Leighton School of Nursing, students who are called to make a difference as future nurses now have access to Marian University’s excellent bachelor degree opportunity in northern Indiana”, said Marian University’s Ancilla College Chancellor Joseph Heidt. “We are grateful to the generous donors, including the Leep Family Foundation, and those organizations desiring to support the new nursing simulation & skills lab and our mission to achieving excellence in learning through scholarly activities in the Franciscan and liberal arts tradition.”
In its first year at Marian’s newest campus, the program welcomed new and continuing students, and Marian University staff and faculty continue to partner with local hospitals and other healthcare providers for clinical opportunities and internships. The new lab will help to best prepare students for these rotations through high-tech and hands-on equipment, including a newly purchased Student Auscultation Manikin.
“As more students move through the program, our hospital and clinical partners have been a blessing in providing critical opportunities for our students to complete their clinical rotations”, said Rebecca Zellars DNP, MSN, RN, assistant dean of nursing. “The new Sim-Man is just one example of the sophisticated and innovative ways we are preparing our students.”
Local student advances nursing education through Bachelor of Science in Nursing
As Indiana continues to experience a critical need for skilled nurses, nursing student Niyoka Ashford is answering that call and realizing her nursing dreams with a BSN degree from Marian University’s Ancilla College.
Ashford was pursuing a two-year nursing associates degree at Ancilla when the program was transitioned into the four-year BSN degree. She said she was initially concerned, but after speaking with an instructor she decided to stay and pursue the advanced degree, and she’s glad she did.
“I look forward to just being around my nursing classmates and the environment. They are inspiring and the instructors are so helpful,” Ashford said.
For more information, please visit https://www.marian.edu/ancilla/academics/degree-programs/degree-programs-in-nursing.