Malone, GlenOak High School partner to prepare nurses
As one of the first graduates of GlenOak High School’s Advancement to Nursing Program, Stephanie Vaughn began her freshman year at Malone as a nursing major ready to go
Vaughn had taken psychology classes with Professor of Psychology David Entwistle, participated in clinicals at Mercy Medical Center, ridden in ambulances with patients, earned her State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) certification from the Ohio Department of Health, and worked nearly 80 hours a week during summer break at the Canton Regency as a nursing assistant.
“I felt really well-prepared for both college and work,” said Vaughn. “I love my patients and find it rewarding to help them with their daily needs. Some of my patients have become like grandparents to me.”
Director of the Advancement to Nursing Program at GlenOak is Peggi Johnson, who designed the curriculum, which incorporates Malone's nursing support courses as a dual enrollment opportunity. Johnson earned her BSN from Malone in 1996, and went on to earn masters degrees in education and school nursing from Ashland University. She has experience in critical care nursing, vaccine research, acute and chronic dialysis, nursing management, nurse education, and school nursing.
The dual enrollment program allows juniors and seniors to earn both high school and college credit through a Post-Secondary Options Program (PSEOP).
“I’ve really enjoyed developing the curriculum and the classes, and I work really hard to make sure the students are learning practical lessons,” said Johnson. “This is a great opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in the medical field. I am honored to be part of this amazing program.”