| 18 November 2008
There is some positive news to report regarding licensure of our nursing graduates in Georgia. While we remain disappointed at the recent actions of the Board of Nursing denying licensure to our graduates, despite a 30-year history of doing so, the Governor's office has issued a statement in support of nontraditional nursing programs such as ours.
Today (November 14), Governor Sonny Perdue spoke out against the Board of Nursing's decision that affects Excelsior College's associate degree nursing students and graduates (read the full text). The Governor has pledged to work "with the General Assembly to make it clear that bona fide nontraditional and for-profit education institutions can have a place in Georgia." Furthermore, the Governor said "I hope the Board’s decision will not discourage emerging graduates and future students in these programs from continuing their studies and joining the dedicated group of nurses in this state working every day to create a healthier Georgia.”
For our associate degree students, current and future, and our recent graduates, this is welcome news. Excelsior College and our colleagues at the Georgia Nurses Association will work with the Governor and the Legislature to keep our nationally accredited program available as an education alternative for experienced, working adults in Georgia seeking to become registered nurses.
At this time, we do not know how long it will take for this issue to be resolved on a permanent basis, but we will keep you apprised. Please know that we are working on a collaborative basis to advocate for you in every possible way to ensure that you can continue on your career path in nursing. In the meantime, we sincerely appreciate the support of Governor Perdue and we suggest that you write the Governor to personally thank him for his support.
Here is the link if you want to see it on the site: Click Here