Blue Ridge Community and Technical College Receives Nursing Accreditation Continuation
Also Dedicates New Skills Lab

Martinsburg, West Virginia [August 28, 2006]– Blue Ridge Community and Technical College is pleased to announce that the National League for Nursing Accreditation Commission (NLNAC) recently voted to continue their associate degree nursing program accreditation through 2012.  In addition, they will be holding a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, August 28th to dedicate their new Nursing and EMS Skills Lab.  Senator Walt Helmick will be participating in this event. 

“We are thrilled to have our accreditation extended for another six years,” stated Dr. Carol Plautz, Dean of Health Sciences for Blue Ridge Community and Technical College.  “This news coincides with the dedication of our new Nursing and EMS Skills Lab.  Both of these events illustrate that our exceptional nursing program will continue to grow and improve, providing the highest quality education possible to our students.”

The Associate of Science Degree in Nursing (ASN) is designed to prepare the graduate to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for registered nurses and to enter a career as a practitioner of professional nursing.  The accreditation process consists of a report from the department, as well as the recommendation from a NLNAC representative who visits the site.  The next evaluation of the nursing program will be in Spring 2012.

Over 100 students will use the new skills lab this semester.  The lab was funded by appropriations from the State of West Virginia in addition to an equipment grant from Valley Regional Enterprises.   The lab is equipped with new EMS equipment and a simulation manikin. 

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College offers more than 40 associate degree and certificate programs, as well as workforce development training.  Blue Ridge is conveniently located at 400 West Stephen Street in downtown Martinsburg, WV.  For more information about our courses and services, please call 304-260-4380 or visit our website at www.BlueRidgeCTC.edu.

###