Shelton State Community College (SSCC) has recently been bestowed with a significant grant amounting to nearly three million dollars. This substantial sum is earmarked for the establishment of a Healthcare Academy, designed to offer a comprehensive selection of vocational and academic courses. These courses will be accessible not only to high school students but also to members of the community. Spread across the campuses of Bibb Medical Center (BMC), Bibb County High School, Bibb County Career Academy, and West Blocton High School, this initiative is set to bring transformative opportunities to the region.
One of the distinguishing features of the Healthcare Academy is its integration of practical experience alongside classroom education. Students enrolled in the program will have the unique chance to gain hands-on experience at BMC outside of regular school hours. This dual approach not only enriches their learning but also allows them to earn a wage while immersing themselves in a healthcare setting. Furthermore, the curriculum is meticulously crafted to ensure that participants are well-prepared for employment in the local healthcare sector upon completion of their studies.
“The $2.8 million dollars in funds Shelton State has been awarded will go a long way to bridge the healthcare gaps in our rural areas and provide much-needed training for our local high school students and community members who are setting their sights on the next phase of their lives,” remarked Dr. Jonathan Koh, President of SSCC, emphasizing the significance of this grant in addressing critical needs within the community.
The overarching aim of the Healthcare Academy is not only to impart academic knowledge but also to provide a robust support system for its participants. Various initiatives such as tutoring, ACT preparation, and career coaching will be offered to help students identify their career paths and address any skill gaps they may encounter. Additionally, the program extends its support to incumbent workers, assisting them in upgrading their skills to align with the evolving demands of the healthcare industry.
This ambitious endeavor has been made possible through the generous funding provided by the Alabama Community College System under the 2024 Alabama Centers for Rural Healthcare Opportunity appropriation. This initiative is specifically geared towards enhancing opportunities for health science students statewide and bolstering the workforce pipeline for Alabama’s growing healthcare sector.
“We are thrilled to have an opportunity like this where we can really build something that transforms career trajectories in our rural community,” expressed Joseph Marchant, Chief Executive Officer of Bibb Medical Center, reflecting on the potential impact of this initiative on the local populace. “A special thank you to Senator April Weaver for her role in helping craft the legislation that has provided these funds throughout rural communities in Alabama like ours.”
Sharing a special statement with the Centreville Press, Marchant added, “BMC wants to help meet the growing needs within the healthcare industry as well as the workforce needs in our community. We are excited about recruiting additional students to grow local programs and ultimately developing future health professionals.”
The significance of this initiative extends beyond its immediate geographical context. Superintendent Kevin Cotner of Bibb County lauded the partnerships that have made this program possible, emphasizing the enduring value of healthcare as an occupation. “We are thankful for partnerships that allow our students to have more opportunities to succeed in life. Healthcare is an occupation that will always be needed, and if our students take advantage of this program, they will hopefully be able to stay local and give back to our community in a positive way,” remarked Superintendent Cotner, underscoring the transformative potential of this initiative for the community.
The establishment of the Healthcare Academy at Shelton State Community College welcomes a new chapter in the region’s educational opportunities. By combining academics with practical experience and extensive support mechanisms, this initiative is prepared to empower individuals and communities, paving the way for a brighter and healthier future.
