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By Mary Ray

Special to The Greenville Advocate

 

Reid State Technical College proudly announces the receipt of a $1.4 million grant from the Alabama Community College System’s Alabama Centers for Rural Healthcare Opportunities program. This significant funding, drawn from a broader $31 million statewide initiative, is designated for establishing a state-of-the-art Practical Nursing Program in Georgiana. This initiative marks a major advancement in healthcare education and workforce development for Alabama’s rural areas.

With this $1.4 million grant, Reid State Technical College is set to establish the Alabama Center for Rural Healthcare Opportunities, with its first major project being the Practical Nursing Program in Georgiana. The critical investment will address the urgent demand for qualified nursing professionals in rural communities, offering high-quality, accessible training and education locally.

Dr. Coretta Boykin, President of Reid State Technical College, shares her excitement about this development: 

“The $1.4 million grant is a game-changer for healthcare education in rural Alabama,” Boykin said. “By establishing a Practical Nursing Program in Georgiana, we’re not just opening doors to career opportunities for our students; we’re also ensuring that our communities have access to the quality healthcare they critically need. We’re grateful for the trust and support shown in us, and we’re committed to making this program a model for rural healthcare education.”

Dr. Boykin expressed her gratitude and recognition towards the collaborative efforts of local officials from Georgiana, the Butler County Economic Development Office, and the Butler County Board of Education. Their continuous support has been instrumental in securing this transformative grant for the community.

The awarded funds will facilitate a broad range of activities necessary for the program’s success, including the establishment of a new instructional service center and enhanced student services. By building strategic alliances with healthcare providers in the area and capitalizing on community support, Reid State aims to create a durable, impactful educational pathway that will serve the region for years to come.

This initiative reflects Reid State Technical College’s ongoing dedication to addressing the critical needs of rural healthcare through innovative educational programs. By equipping students with essential skills and knowledge, the Practical Nursing Program in Georgiana will play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery in underserved areas, benefiting both the community and the healthcare industry at large.

The College anticipates launching the healthcare training program in Spring 2025, marking a significant milestone in addressing rural Alabama’s healthcare workforce needs. Prospective students and community members seeking further information about the grant or the nursing program are encouraged to contact Reid State Technical College at 251-578-1313 or visit the College’s website at RSTC.edu.

Reid State Technical College is an associate degree-granting, two-year institution that provides quality academic and technical education to students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. The College promotes economic growth by preparing a qualified workforce for business and industry.