#United States #Phoenix #Nursing Education #Arizona College #NLN Excellence

Arizona College of Nursing Earns NLN Center of Excellence Designation

Arizona College of Nursing (AZCN), located in Phoenix, has received significant national recognition for its commitment to nursing education. Selected as a 2026 National League for Nursing (NLN) Center of Excellence™ in the category of Promoting the Pedagogical Expertise of Faculty, AZCN stands out among only 20 nursing programs across the United States to earn this prestigious designation. This achievement celebrates AZCN’s dedication to fostering the skills and knowledge of nursing faculty, ensuring that the next generation of registered nurses is highly prepared and well-educated.

Dr. Jason Dunne, the Chief Academic Officer at AZCN, highlighted the importance of investing in faculty development programs to guarantee students receive top-quality education and mentorship. The institution’s commitment is exemplified through initiatives such as the annual Educator Conference, where faculty members convene, share innovative teaching strategies, and engage with experts to refine their educational methods. These efforts foster a collaborative environment where teaching practices continually evolve to meet the changing needs of nursing education.

Jason Anderson, the Chief Executive Officer of AZCN, expressed pride in this recognition, stating that exceptional educators are fundamental to preparing competent nurses. He emphasized the importance of their faculty’s dedication to academic excellence and the impactful role they play in nurturing future healthcare professionals.

In a broader context, NLN President Beverly Malone praised the selected programs, acknowledging their ongoing commitment to elevate nursing education. She emphasized that the designation reflects their hard work in creating innovative educational experiences that seamlessly integrate classroom learning with real-world clinical applications.

Founded on the principle of enhancing lives through education, Arizona College of Nursing offers a comprehensive three-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, which is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. The program now spans 24 campuses across 15 states, catering to aspiring registered nurses and equipping them with the necessary skills for a rewarding career in healthcare.

The formal recognition as an NLN Center of Excellence will be celebrated during the Honors Convocation at the upcoming 2026 NLN Education Summit scheduled for September 25, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This accolade not only reflects the college's continuous effort to uplift the standards of nursing education but also places AZCN in the national spotlight alongside other esteemed nursing programs committed to excellence.

As the nation faces a pressing nursing workforce shortage, initiatives from educational institutions like AZCN play a pivotal role in addressing this challenge. The collaboration with Scholars Network aims to expand nursing job opportunities and improve loan repayment options for graduates, furthering the college's mission to influence the healthcare landscape positively.

The recognition by the NLN reaffirms Arizona College of Nursing’s commitment to producing not just good nurses but leaders in nursing who are equipped to enhance patient care and contribute to the overall healthcare system. As Arizona College of Nursing moves forward, its strategic focus on faculty development and innovative educational practices will ensure that it remains a leader in nurturing the nursing professionals of tomorrow.