CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Shawnee State University (SSU) is expanding access to nursing education in Southern Ohio by bringing its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program to Chillicothe. Beginning soon, the program will be offered at the PACCAR Medical Education Center on the Adena Regional Medical Center campus, providing a convenient, local pathway for students pursuing a career in nursing.
University leaders say the expansion removes barriers for students in Ross County and surrounding areas who may otherwise have to travel outside the region for a four-year nursing degree.
“By offering our BSN program at the PACCAR Medical Education Center, we are removing barriers for students in Ross County and neighboring areas who want a high-quality nursing education,” said Dr. Christine Raber, dean of SSU’s College of Health and Human Services. “This partnership with Adena Health reflects our shared commitment to strengthening health care in Southern Ohio.”
Students enrolled in the Chillicothe-based BSN pathway will train in a modern health care education environment and complete clinical experiences directly within Adena Health facilities. The new offering also provides Adena employees with a streamlined pathway to earn a BSN, supported through employer tuition assistance and professional development opportunities.
“Expanding access to nursing education is an important investment in the health of our community,” said Mike Diener, president of Adena Regional Medical Center. “By hosting Shawnee State University’s BSN program on our campus, we’re making it easier for students and Adena caregivers to pursue advanced education locally, while strengthening the care available to our region.”
According to Kimberley Dinsey-Read, director of SSU’s School of Nursing, the expansion responds to a growing regional demand for nurses and flexible training options.
“Our region needs more nurses, and offering the BSN pathway in Chillicothe allows students to stay close to home while preparing for a critical, high-demand career,” Dinsey-Read said. “By partnering with Adena, we’re able to give students meaningful clinical experiences and support the health care workforce our communities depend on.”
The Chillicothe program is part of SSU’s broader effort to support regional workforce development and expand access to high-demand academic programs across Southern Ohio.
Shawnee State University’s baccalaureate nursing program, currently offered in Portsmouth and awaiting approval for the additional Chillicothe location, is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
More information about Shawnee State’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is available at shawnee.edu/bsn.
