BUCKHANNON — West Virginia Wesleyan College and Valley Health Care, Inc. have formed a strategic partnership to enhance continuing education for medical professionals in North Central West Virginia.
“This strategic partnership between West Virginia Wesleyan College and Valley Health Care embodies our institutional mission to share educational resources with our local and regional communities, while preparing students to think critically, communicate effectively, and act responsibly,” said Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Lynn M. Linder.
Linder emphasized the partnership’s dual benefits. “By providing accessible continuing education opportunities for Valley Health employees and their families, we’re not only investing in their professional development, but also fulfilling the college’s vision to prepare the next generation of leaders to meet the needs of West Virginia and Appalachia,” she explained.
West Virginia Wesleyan College will offer Valley Health Care employees a 10 percent tuition discount for the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) programs. General scholarships are also available for employees and their dependents to pursue one of nearly 60 undergraduate majors.
In addition to nursing programs, the college has introduced an Executive MBA program. This robust online offering includes short weekend residencies for networking and collaboration.
“Valley Health Care Inc.’s partnership with West Virginia Wesleyan College marks a significant step forward in educational development and professional growth opportunities for employees and their families,” said Dr. Amanda Jones, Chief Medical Officer at Valley Health Care.
According to Jones, this collaboration aligns with the spirit of Lyndon B. Johnson’s words by transforming education into a valuable opportunity. “By making higher education more accessible, Valley Health Care Inc. not only invests in the personal advancement of its staff but also contributes to the broader goal of enhancing the health care sector in West Virginia,” she said.
The partnership is expected to create a ripple effect, increasing the number of qualified health care professionals in the region and improving overall health care services.
