In this edition of the Nightingale Newsletter, join us for a fireside chat with Nightingale Education Group Board Chair Kimberly MacPherson as she discusses the skills, expertise, and perspective she brings to our board. Readers will also be able to review the 2024 Impact Report, gain insight into what goes into spring intreat and why it is essential, learn about the new OSC ticketing system, and more!
Nightingale Newsletter A Year of Purpose, Progress, and People: Nightingale Education Group Celebrates 2025
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How to Use FlippingBook for the Nightingale Newsletter : A Step-by-Step Guide To enhance the collaborator experience, the Nightingale Newsletter is now available in an interactive format via FlippingBook. This new platform format offers a more engaging, user-friendly way to explore content.
Key features include: Seamless page turning Replicates the feel of a physical magazine. Interactive Table of Contents Click the first icon on the bottom toolbar to jump directly to a specific section. Thumbnail previews Allows for quick visual navigation. Note-taking Add notes or comments to specific sections for future reference. Sound control Mute page-turning effects for a quieter experience. Zoom access Easily zoom in by clicking on embedded links or videos. Full-screen mode Offers an immersive reading experience. Page navigation Allows you to enter a specific page number and jump directly to it. Search function
Click on the magnifying glass icon in the top-right corner to search for keywords or topics. All these tools are accessible via the toolbar at the bottom of the FlippingBook platform. If you have any questions or run into issues navigating this new format, please reply to cnewsletter@nightingale.edu . We hope this enhancement makes accessing Nightingale Education Group information more enjoyable.
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Contents
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06
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Feature Story
Farewell to a Friend
Nightingale Newsroom
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11
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Words of Wisdom
Illuminations
Nightingale Spotlight
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15
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Collaborator Anniversaries
Collab Connections
Collaborator Corner
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Behind the Screen
Brightening Our Future
Important Events and Observances
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Nightingale Wellness Program Work-from-Home Tip
Nightingale Classifieds Feedback Form
Mission Fufillment
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A Year of Purpose, Progress, and People: Nightingale Education Group Celebrates 2025
Group, we aren’t just another nursing school. We spark innovation, change lives, and continue to challenge the status quo. With that momentum behind us, we’re excited to share the moments and milestones that made this year extraordinary:
As we wrap up and put a bow on 2025, we take a moment to reflect and celebrate what we’ve accom- plished together. This year has been more than a collection of milestones; it’s been a year of movement, meaning, and momentum. At Nightingale Education
NWCCU SITE VISIT In October, Nightingale Education Group proudly welcomed the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) for a mid-cycle accreditation review, a vital step in our seven-year accreditation journey. Peer evaluators visited our Operational Support Center (OSC) in Salt Lake City to see firsthand how we live our mission every day. The visit highlighted our strengths in areas such as data use, leadership, communication, and student success. “NWCCU accreditation ensures that the College meets rigorous standards of quality and effectiveness, fostering continuous improvement and institutional accountability,” said Cindy Marten, Senior Manager, Accreditation. “For learners and graduates, it provides assurance that their education is recognized, transferable, and valued by employers and graduate programs.”
1,000 COLLABORATORS STRONG At this year’s Flame Forward! conference, we cele- brated a milestone that captured the heart of who we are. One thousand collaborators strong isn’t just a number — it represents 1,000 voices, 1,000 minds, and 1,000 hearts working together to elevate education, employment, and contribute to closing health equity gaps. Every collaborator plays a vital role in advancing our Purpose of building a Better World through Better Humanity and Better Health.
THREE Rs In 2025, Nightingale College sharpened its focus with the introduction of the Three Rs, a framework that defines what it means to be a Nightingale nurse: rele- vantly skilled, readily available, and representative of the communities they serve. These principles are more than just a model. They reflect our deep commitment to preparing nurses who are not only ready to practice but equipped to meet the ever- evolving demands of health care.
STRATEGIC GOALS With eyes fixed on the horizon, Nightingale College is dreaming big. By 2028, we aim to reach 20,000 learners, an ambition that represents more than growth. It’s a commitment to meeting a national demand for nurses, closing equity gaps, and expanding access to quality nursing education across the country. Every learner who joins Nightingale College creates a ripple of impact, bringing us one step closer to a healthier, more equitable world.
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COLLABORATOR EXPERIENCE In keeping with the Core 7 framework and further opportunities for collaborators to achieve greater financial wellness, Collaborator Experience introduced a valuable tool for collab- orators in a pinch. An earned-wage access program using “On Demand” in the Branch app provides collaborators an opportunity to receive some of the wages they have already earned in the current pay period before the paycheck period is issued. Marissa DiPaola, Senior Manager, Collaborator Experience Systems, said the way Nightingale offers earned-wage access is innovative in its approach. “Because it is one tool in a whole toolbox of finan- cial wellness opportunities, it allows collaborators to make proactive choices overall rather than reactive ones,” said DiPaola. She also encourages all collaborators to schedule a call with a financial coach at Yourmoneyline.com to learn more about how to use Branch and earned-wage access in a strategic and helpful way. Nightingale Education Group also launched the Paid Parental Leave policy, ensuring wage
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION The impact of our mission did not go unnoticed in 2025. Throughout the year, Nightingale College received several meaningful honors that reflect our ongoing commitment to our Purpose and Pathway. We were awarded HR.com’s Best Employee Wellbeing Program, ranked the No. 1 Practical Nursing Program Employer by PracticalNursing.org, and earned multiple Top Workplaces accolades, including recognition from The Salt Lake Tribune , honors in the Education category, and Energage ’s Fall 2025 Culture Excellence Award. These recognitions collectively celebrate the dedication of our teams and the meaningful work we continue to do together. Along with the collective achievements, we also celebrated individual accomplishments that exemplify leadership and excellence across our organization. Dr. Juliet Kolde was recognized with a Healthcare Heroes Award for her outstanding contributions to health and education while the vice president of accounting and finance, Kendra Owens, was named Utah Business ’ 40 Under 40, honoring her as one of the state’s most influential young professionals.
continuity during the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child, so collaborators can focus on family without financial strain. The policy offers up to 12 weeks of paid leave for birth parents and up to 8 weeks for partners as well as adoptive or foster parents, depending on tenure. “By ensuring wage continuity during these pivotal moments, we affirm our mission to care for the whole collaborator, honoring family, well-being, and equity,” said Lily Detwiler, Business Partner I, Collaborator Experience. “This benefit not only strengthens our culture of compassion and inclusion but also reinforces our dedication to creating a workplace where people feel valued and supported at every stage of life.”
LOOKING AHEAD 2025 was a big year and it happened because of you. Every collaborator, learner, and partner played a vital role in shaping Nightingale’s story. Together, we’re building more than just another nursing school. We’re shaping the future of health care, one confident, competent, and compassionate nurse at a time. But the work doesn’t stop here. As we head into the new year, we do so with gratitude for how far we’ve come and excitement for what lies ahead. Let’s carry this momentum into 2026 as we continue transforming health care and empowering the communities we serve.
FLAME FORWARD! Flame Forward! serves as a powerful reminder of what makes Nightingale Education Group truly extraordinary. Over several days, collaborators from across the country came together to connect, share ideas, and explore how we can continue to “Forge the Future.” Every hallway chat, breakout session, and keynote reflected the energy, creativity, and passion that drive our mission forward.
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Farewell to a Friend
Our Nightingale community was deeply shaken by the unexpected loss of fellow collaborator Richard “Rick” Allen Bentz on Dec. 1 this year. For six-and-a-half years, Rick, 60, was Nightingale’s director of marketing, but his reach extended beyond that title. He was a close confidant, friend, motivator, encourager, mentor, and go-to source thanks to his deep knowledge of higher education marketing and market awareness. As marketing director, Rick was a staunch advocate for Nightingale utilizing his wealth of experience to continue sharing our mission through numerous creative means. From ads at the Delta Center during Utah Jazz games, TV commercials sharing Nightingale’s impact, and to the swag bags and fantastic gifts that had been given every year at Flame Forward!, Rick had a hand in it. “Not many marketing professionals have Rick’s skills, experience, and instincts, and his ability to mentor and lead his team promoted growth and ensured we were all better for having him in our lives,” said Jonathan Tanner, Nightingale Education Group's chief growth officer, who also credited Rick with helping Nightingale navigate through COVID and expand nationwide. “For me, he has been a steadfast sounding board and idea man who never forgot to hold space for the con- versations that go beyond business.” While this loss is profound for our community, please take a moment to share a thought or prayer for Rick’s family: his wife of 25 years, Jessica; his son Dexter (Jonalyn); and grandsons Jack and Otis; his daughter, Cloe; his mother, Geraldine; his siblings Jim (Linnea) and Cindi (Dan); his father and mother- in-law, Roger and Marian; sister-in-law Jennifer (Scott) and brother-in-law Jeff (Tammy); and his many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. A service celebrating Rick's life was held on Dec. 8 at Jenkins-Soffe Funeral Home in Murray, Utah. Those wishing to learn more about Rick and his legacy may do so by reading his obituary .
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Newsroom Nightingale
NEG/World Innovations
College
Solutions
Foundation
BSN Tuition Reduction for Utah Residents As part of Nightingale’s commitment to the state of Utah, and in recognition of the vital role the state has played in our overall impact, the College has announced a tuition reduction of $205 per credit for qualified Utah residents enrolled in the BSN Program as of Summer Semester 2026. The waiver will be applied to each semester for the remainder of each learner’s program, providing all eligibility require- ments are met. The opportunity is available to current and prospective Utah learners who meet residency and enrollment criteria. For more information, please reach out to your function leader. Daily Nurse Covers School Nursing: The Overlooked Career Catalyst In the October issue of Utah Business magazine , Dr. Juliet Kolde, President, Nightingale Innovations, was named a 2025 Healthcare Hero. This award recognizes individuals who are making a lasting impact on their communities and the healthcare industry while working to improve the overall state of health in Utah. As Nightingale’s second Healthcare Hero recipient following Mikhail Shneyder’s recognition in 2022, Juliet’s selection is a proud moment for us all. A dynamic leader, Juliet is transforming nursing education through a wide range of innovative strate- gies, including immersive virtual reality (VR) simulations that bring clinical scenarios to life. Her leadership and commitment to Nightingale's mission make this recognition no surprise. This award is a testament to Juliet’s growth mindset as she works to shape a stronger, more prepared nursing workforce for the future. You can read about Juliet's honor through this article in Utah Business and this article on our website.
Spring Semester Financial- Compliance and Payment-Plan Updates Bursar would like to share important updates pertaining to Spring Semester 2026. In terms of financial-compliance deadlines, all remaining fall balances and all spring balances must be paid in full or placed on an active payment plan by the last day of add/drop at noon MT. All long-term institutional financing (serviced by Tuition Options) must also be current by this deadline. Learners who do not meet these requirements will be locked out of classes. If a lockout occurs, learners must resolve their financial noncompliance to avoid withdrawal. Failure to take action within 12 days of nonattendance will result in withdrawal from the College. When learners enroll in a payment plan, 10% of the total balance is due at the time of enrollment. The remaining 90% will be divided into three equal monthly payments, due on the 15th of the following three months. Thank you for helping us ensure a smooth and successful semester for all learners. Please share this information with your team as needed. For ques- tions, reach out to bursar@nightingale.edu . Nightingale College Leverages VR to Improve Nursing Skills Acquisition: Our organization has leveraged VR learning by adapting its curriculum so that prelicensure learners were no longer tethered to in-person simulation labs, and learning could be accessible to those in underserved communities. In this article from Meta, learn about how new learners receive a Quest 3S headset, the importance of practice training scenarios, individualized learner needs, our partnership with Meta, and more.
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Newsroom Nightingale
NEG/World Innovations
College
Solutions
Foundation
Revisiting the Core 7 At Nightingale, the Core 7 represents the operating system of our high-performing community. It defines our attitudes and practices and unites us in purpose. As a community, we are more than the sum of parts. Together, we strive for excel- lence, empathy, and deliberate evolvement, ensuring that we always strive to fulfill our purpose. We invite all collaborators to revisit the Core 7 framework as we continue to move forward together. Vacation Donation for Wellness Program Life throws unexpected curves, and despite having multiple programs in place to support collab- orators, sometimes we need more support than our benefits can provide. The Collaborator Vacation Donation for Wellness Program allows collaborators to donate their own accrued vacation days to a shared pool to help those experiencing a qualifying medical emergency. Recipients must be experiencing a qualify- ing medical emergency supported by medical documentation. For more information on how to use this resource or donate, please refer to the Collaborator Guidebook on SharePoint or Paycom .
Winter Floating Holidays This year’s designated winter floating holidays are Thursday, Dec. 25-Friday, Jan. 2, 2026. We encourage you to use this time to relax and recharge before the start of the new year. Please coordinate with your function leader to confirm whether your work schedule allows the flexibility to use these days off. If you are unable to use them during this period, you can save this time and use your winter floating holidays later. For questions, contact CX using the “Ask Here” function in Paycom. Nightingale Education Group Ranks Among Nation’s Best Remote Workplaces Based on employee feedback, Nightingale Education Group has been named a 2025 Remote Work Top Workplaces award winner by Energage . This award recognizes employers that excel in fostering engagement, connection, and belonging. Our survey results ranked among the highest nationally in key areas such as well-being, inclusion, leadership, trust, and meaningful work, reflecting the organization’s intentional approach to remote culture and collaboration. Celebrating Together: Branded Holiday Teams Backgrounds Coming in 2026 To contribute to our culture that embraces a growth mindset, the creative team will roll out branded Teams meeting backgrounds representing an array of holidays and cultures in 2026. This tool is a great way to show pride and spark connection and conversation in meetings with fellow collaborators. From Kwanzaa to Labor Day, these backgrounds will encourage collaborators to celebrate with us and create lasting experiences.
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Nightingale Education Group Give Back Days In this season of giving, the Building Community Committee encourages collaborators to give back to their local communities. Nightingale Education Group offers collaborators one paid day off a year to participate in a “Give Back Day.” Through these days, our Nightingale community continues to foster an environment of wellness and belonging. Volunteering must be done at a 501(c)(3) organization that is aligned with the Core 7 framework, such as a health or human services organization (i.e., food or housing insecurity, distribution centers, affordable and accessible health care, etc.). For more information on Give Back Days, contact CX using the “Ask Here” function in Paycom. The NFL Players Trading Their Helmets for Scrubs To feel connected to something as much as they did with sports, many retired NFL athletes have given nursing a try due to its wide array of career paths and specialties. Men currently make up 13% of registered nurses, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Although the path from bone crunching to healing may seem odd, many former athletes say that a football career gave them solid preparation for nursing. Both careers have an intense need for mental toughness, resiliency, and the ability to act quickly and perform under pressure, allowing them to become excellent nurses and healthcare advocates. A Shared Vision: Nightingale Visits the Cherokee Nation After the New Learner Welcome Forum in Oklahoma in October, the College met with representatives of the Cherokee Nation, including their director of nursing, and toured their healthcare facility in Tahlequah. Raye Mahlberg, Assistant Vice President, Learner Experience, described the visit as inspiring, noting that the entire facility was designed around the patient experience rather than convenience. The College was impressed by the Cherokee Nation's commitment to ensure their community feels comfortable and supported in healthcare settings. Both Nightingale and the Cherokee Nation share a common goal: preparing nurses who reflect and represent the communities they serve.
Positioning for Success for the 2026 BRN Sunset Review The Nightingale legislative team is preparing for the California Board of Registered Nursing’s sunset review next year. During this process, the board must go before the state legislature to justify its continued existence and request the passage of a bill that extends its authority for another five years. Our organization is actively engaged in discussions surrounding this renewal and hopes the legislature will require the board to allow access for distance education programs to conduct clinical rotations in the state. We are optimistic because lawmakers are already aware of California’s nursing shortage, and key policy- makers have heard our concerns. These committees will draft the renewal bill, and we are working to include our proposed language. Assemblymember Heath Flora, our bill sponsor, is now the Republican leader in the Assembly, and Senator Ashby, a strong sup- porter likely to hold a Senate leadership role next year, both strengthen our position. With their support, we are coordinating closely with committees and staff to present a united front going into the 2026 review. Discontinuation of Professional Development (PD) Accounts To streamline processes and ensure consistency across departments, the organization has discontinued the use of Professional Development accounts. All activity will now be processed through existing standard (non-PD) accounts. In Concur, PD reimbursement accounts have been removed. Collaborators will now only see standard accounts when submitting reimbursement requests. In Divvy/BILL, the PD account remains visible for now, but please select the standard account for all transactions moving forward. No further action is required by collaborators. All reimbursements and transactions will continue to be processed as usual through standard accounts. If you have any questions, please reach out to Reimbursement at reimbursements@ nightingale.edu .
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Words of Wisdom
Dear Collaborators, The winter solstice draws us into the quietest, deepest part of the year. It marks the moment when darkness reaches its peak and light begins its slow return in tiny increments until little by little, the days feel normal again. Beneath the surface, roots grow deeper, conserving energy for the season ahead, and seeds lie dormant, not dead. In fact, soon I plan to plant bulbs for spring — not so early that warm autumn days trigger growth only to be killed by the first freeze, but late enough for the bulbs to settle deep under a blanket of snow, protected until spring’s first thaw. Winter reminds us that progress isn’t always visible. The unseen work, preparation, waiting and planning, is as essential as the sun when recalibrating for a new season. For me, the solstice is an annual check-in. Falling near the holidays and New Year, it naturally inspires gratitude for what I have and helps me reflect upon what I want for the future. It’s a time to pause, sift through what truly matters, and set intentions for the year ahead. This pause matters.
At Nightingale, we embrace the pause through the win- ter floating holidays because it provides an opportuni- ty to prepare for the upcoming year. Goals set in haste lose their power, while those set with intention endure. For organizations like ours, few things are bigger than forging a Better World through Better Humanity and Better Health. At our core, we are stewards of human needs. Just as nature slows down to take root, service-based organizations must periodically pause to ensure people, resources, and systems are aligned. This season is ideal for evaluating how well we listen to each other, our learners, our system partners, and the communities we serve. Intentional thought, rest, and planning create capacity for a more meaningful, productive season when the pace picks up again. During this break, I invite you to narrow your focus, acknowledge your limits, identify where you can stretch, and most of all, embrace clarity. When daylight is fleeting, every hour of sun feels precious. When we pause — even briefly — we quiet the noise and create space to reflect on the past year’s goals and set new ones for the year ahead. Wishing you a happy holiday season, Tyler Asman
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Illuminations
Kayla Berwanger Instructor, Experiential Learning “Kayla played a key role in helping me transition into Nightingale’s unique instructional model, which is quite dif- ferent from my previous experience as a traditional nursing instructor. As on-ground faculty in a system driven by remote learning and real- world clinical experiences, the shift initially felt unfamiliar. Kayla’s clear guidance, patience, and support made it much easier to adapt and build confidence in this new environment. Her approach made what could have been an overwhelming transition into an engaging and positive experience.” Michele Parker “During our second one-on-one, Angenita not only coached me to become a member of Nightingale with great direction and imperative information, but she also took moments of the meeting to connect with me personally. She shared stories that resonated with me, and I will never forget that.” Maya Smith, MA Assistant Professor II General Education Assistant Professor I Experiential Learning Angenita Williams Associate Professor General Education
Sarah Jones Manager, Learner Helpdesk “A special shout-out to Sarah for going above and beyond for our learners as the manager of the Learner Help Desk! Her extensive knowledge of the College and ongoing collabora- tion with various functions helps direct concerns quickly and effectively, leading to better outcomes for learners and other stakeholders. I particularly appreciate her empathy and positive attitude when navigating challenging situations and learner frustrations; she makes a significant impact every day!” Erin Hungerman Investigator, Ethics Office
Erica Ellsworth Instructor, Learner Resources “Erica brings 28 years of teaching experience to Nightingale College and has quickly become an indispens- able part of our team. Despite being new, she consistently goes above and beyond by offering her support across departments and stepping in wherever help is needed. She has graciously taken me under her wing as a mentee, offering encourage- ment, guidance, and genuine care. Nightingale is a stronger, kinder, and more collaborative place because of Erica’s presence. I am so grateful to call her a friend and colleague!“ Mike Rendon-Thofson Instructor, Learner Resources Christy Smith Supervisor Government Funding Programs “Christy is a treasure trove of knowledge when it comes to deferral regulations regarding student aid. She has taken the time to comb through Nightingale’s policies and found ways to streamline our interpretations of the policies of the Department of Education. More importantly, she conveys these updates in user-friendly diagrams and charts, so all involved functions are in sync moving forward. I can’t believe we get to work with someone like this!” Diane Shaffer Supervisor, Learner Funding
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Nightingale Spotlight
Education as a Catalyst: Growing the
Next Generation of Nurses at Bayberry
A devoted organization with a lasting presence, Generations Healthcare has established itself as one of Nightingale Education Group’s purpose-driven partners. What began as a small nursing facility has grown into a trusted and successful healthcare provider. Rooted in the belief that caring for the sick, elderly, and infirm is a unique stewardship, Generations Healthcare has built a strong vision of quality, set high standards, and empowered communities through training and education to create a meaningful impact. At Generations
Bayberry Skilled Nursing and Healthcare Center in Concord, California, exceptional leadership helps prepare Nightingale learners for meaningful nursing careers. Through its partnership with Nightingale, Generations is actively contributing to the development of the next generation of nurses. “Our facility operates two specialized units to serve diverse patient needs,” said Prabjot Dhaddey, Administrator at Bayberry Skilled Nursing and Healthcare Center. “Our traditional skilled nursing unit provides comprehensive care, while our behavioral health unit — established within the last
18 months — focuses on supporting clients with mental health disorders, empowering them to successfully reintegrate into the community.”
Prab is dedicated to achieving operational excellence, overseeing key areas such as delivering high-quality care, ensuring compliance with regulatory surveys, managing finances, and optimizing staffing.
“I love this role because it allows me to engage with every aspect of our operations while ensuring our team feels valued, supported, and empowered,” said Prab.
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Several Bayberry employees are currently attending Nightingale College. After hearing about our program from a colleague, Prab began encouraging members of her staff to further their education through Nightingale. “I’m truly honored to work with such an exceptional, dependable, and talented team,” said Prab. “As a leader, I believe it’s my duty to foster growth, provide unwavering support, and create pathways for our staff’s success.” When opportunities for advancement arose, she championed her staff’s pursuits to join their management team, recognizing that the online format would enable them to seamlessly balance their professional responsibilities, educational goals, and family commitments. Prab finds deep meaning in supporting her employees’ growth and is proud to see them apply what they have learned in the classroom to the workplace. The feedback she has received about Nightingale’s program has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly regarding its flexibility. Prab’s team is the heart of the facility, and each day they show up with pride, passion, and a commitment to make a meaningful impact.
It is evident that Prab is deeply passionate about her work and leads with positivity, inspiring those around her every day. “Cultivating a positive environment starts with leadership and flows throughout the organization,” said Prab. As a leader, she is a positive force to her employees, consistently taking responsibility and bringing a great attitude every day, believing it sets the tone for her team. “Leading with clarity and focus sets the tone for a vibrant workplace culture,” said Prab. “A strong culture is the foundation for delivering our best, and it begins with me. I’m confident that pairing this mindset with the exceptional education our team is gaining at Nightingale will inspire and empower them to achieve remarkable success.” Prab’s leadership at Generations Healthcare Bayberry facility exemp- lifies the dedication that transforms workplaces, patients, and lives. Through her commitment to operational and cultural excellence and employee growth, it reflects the same values Nightingale strives to instill in its learners and collaborators. Together, Nightingale and Generations are continuing to shape a confident, competent, and compassionate nursing workforce.
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In November and December, we celebrate 62 collaborator anniversaries at Nightingale Education Group. We are proud of the contributions each collaborator has made in their tenure, and we would not be successful without their efforts. Thanks to these collaborators’ dedication we have been able to make a meaningful impact and contribute to a Better World through Better Humanity and Better Health.
View Collaborator Anniversaries
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What are you grateful for this holiday season? Collab Connections
“This holiday season, my heart is full of gratitude for the incredible NCLEX Success team. I cherish our daily conversations, laughter, cheers, and the way we lift each other up whenever advice and encouragement are needed. I’m so proud to be part of this family and I am grateful for each of you and all that we share together!”
“This holiday season, I embraced the silver linings. We had a health scare with my 4-year-old earlier this year and it put into perspective the advan- tage of having a job that allows me to work from home. While KPIs are objective and work can be hard, I can still be with my daughter at night and on weekends. With this flexibility, I was able to coach the girls’ soccer teams, and our family had the ability to fit in a staycation this fall. I think many of us get so hyperfixated on the ins and outs of our daily grind that we forget there is so much more to life and family comes first!” Courtney Davis Senior Manager Faculty Development and Curriculum Delivery
Nisha Philip-Crisano Associate Professor NCLEX Success
“I am grateful for the little things, every year. I’m profoundly grateful for another holiday season and another chance to hold the ones I love so very tight. We lost our daughter right before Christmas years ago, and ever since the season has taken on a deeper meaning for us. It’s not about gifts, bells,
or glitter; it’s about the time we spend together, the laughter, the warmth, and the memories we create that linger long after the lights come down. Life is so incredibly sweet, yet heartbreakingly short, and it’s the little moments that stay etched in your heart, especially the ones that come rushing back when you miss someone most. For me, those tiny moments are everything. I think about the way my kids’ faces glow around the campfire as they roast marshmallows, the flour that’s dusted across their noses as they turn my kitchen into a cookie-making disaster zone, how Harry Potter is playing on repeat like it’s brand new, and the scent of coffee swirling with peppermint fills the morning air — just all the little things. Those are the memories I hold closest, and those are the moments that make this season so special: the little ones.” Crystal Schmitt, Director, Funding Management
“I am grateful to have found a career that values work-life balance and allows me to spend more time with my family and make memories during my favorite time of year.” Julie Mills Assistant Manager Experiential Learning Placement
“In December 1992, I donated a kidney to my older sister. This year we will celebrate our 33rd ‘Happy Kidney Day’! Every December, I am reminded that good health is the greatest
gift of all.” Robin Hill Assistant Controller
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Collab Corner
What is one professional skill professional skill you’re currently working on? If you aren’t working on one, what is one you would like to learn?
I am completing my Doctor of Nursing Practice degree specializing as a family nurse practitioner. My first master’s degree was in nursing education, and I value how this added clinical expertise will enhance my role as assistant director of nursing education. I am also coteaching a course to help nursing educators achieve their Certified Nurse Educator certifications. Blending clinical knowledge with effective teaching is a passion and a professional skill I plan to continue developing.” Savannah Salvesen, MSNEd, RN, CNE
In social media, the landscape is contantly shifting, so I’m always working to stay proficient with the latest tools. It’s important to ensure that I’m using the right platforms and adopting new ones that others in my field are finding success with. I love picking up new software and apps and testing them out to see how they can help us better serve our learners. By implementing fresh social media strategies, I’m able to do my job more effectively, so I’m always on the lookout for the next best thing.” Ben Coughran
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Assistant Director Nursing Education
Social Media Specialist II College Communications
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Sam Clarke
Curious about what it’s like to work in other areas of Nightingale Education Group? Stay tuned for the next edition of the Nightingale Newsletter to see which function will be featured next!
Take a peek Behind the Screen and meet Sam Clarke, Vice President, AI Strategy and Application. Discover how his team is shaping the future of learning through AI.
Watch Here
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To provide more resources for learners and alumni to ensure they have long and prosperous careers in nursing, the Nightingale College Alumni Association is launching an alumni advisory committee. Attendees at Flame Forward! may recognize four of the five advisory committee members — Sadie Carlsen, Kylie Carter, Michael Pulsipher, and Laura Richitelli — as they spoke during the townhall panel discussion. The fifth, Ana Lisa De Vera, was the fall 2024 Nightingale College class valedictorian. “This committee will be proactive in everything it does,” said Bernard C. Austin II, Director of Alumni Relations. “This won’t be an advisory committee where we sit around, eat, and laugh. The reason why this committee is being formed is to shape and make the alumni experience better.” Austin said the alumni experience will be enhanced by virtue of the different backgrounds of the alumni committee, noting that Carlsen didn’t go the education-into-nursing route but instead started her own business. Richitelli is a former U.S. Air Force LPN, Carter oversees hiring nurses, and Pulsipher facilitates his own center. “Their experiences post-Nightingale could provide insight to learners or alumni who are curious about what they wished they had done or had access to while they were a learner,” said Austin. “This is where that peer-to-peer mentorship comes in.” One of the more immediate means of establishing the committee is the launch of the Alumni Advisory Committee podcast. The format will be similar to the Flame Forward! panel where the committee will have an open chat with Austin about lots of topics.
“It might be asking, what was your hardest class? How did that class set you up for success? What would you say to someone entering the field?” said Austin. “It’ll be where alumni, learners, and faculty members can come into the chat.” Podcast topics will consist of what the committee feels needs to be discussed along with learner feedback. As the committee seeks ways to be impactful, Austin suggested possibilities could include regional meet and greets where learners and alumni could learn what to expect after getting their degree. The overall goal for the committee is to ensure learners and graduates do not contribute to the number of nurses that end up leaving the field after one or two years. “We don’t want to be part of that statistic,” said Austin. “The alumni committee solves issues and creates a community where they have something to look forward to after graduation. We are invested in the time from graduation to retirement, and this is what we need to do to make sure that we keep engagement up.” Involve- ment will be measured through surveys, engagement increase, and overall interaction, added Austin. Austin also noted opportunities for employer partnerships, including sponsored job fairs, facility tours, and hosted meals promoted through the Nightingale network. “Engagement leads to results, partnerships, and a strong alumni pipeline,” he said.
Ultimately, Austin said the committee aims to highlight postgraduation opportunities for alumni to use available resources. “We want to break down barriers and make it easier for people to reach out when they need support.” Brightening Our Future Alumni Advisory Committee Aims to Strengthen Postgraduation Success
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National Observances & Important Events
December
January
Monday, Dec. 1-Monday, Jan. 5 Hiring Moratorium Wednesday, Dec. 10-Friday, Dec. 12 New Collaborator Orientation (NCO) Monday, Dec. 15 First Day of Hanukkah Friday, Dec. 19 Semester Ends at 5 p.m. MT Wednesday, Dec. 24 Christmas Eve Thursday, Dec. 25
Thursday, Jan. 1 New Year’s Day Monday, Jan. 5 Semester Start Date Monday, Jan. 5 New Learner Welcome Forum
Sunday, Jan. 11–Tuesday, Jan. 13 New Collaborator Orientation (NCO) Friday, Jan. 16 Last Day to Add/Drop by Noon MT Monday, Jan. 19 Martin Luther King Day – College Closed Saturday, Jan. 24 Virtual Commencement – Fall 2025 Graduates
Christmas Day Friday, Dec. 26 Kwanzaa Wednesday, Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve
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Gratitude Practices for a Healthy Holiday Season Nightingale Wellness Program
Work-from-Home Tip No. 19 Remote Work To better reflect the need for our growing Nightingale community, we encourage collabora- tors to revisit the small but important updates to our workplace policies. Our approach to remote work remains rooted in trust, and it’s something we are proud of. While our functional workplace Science reminds us that gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a practice that rewires the brain for joy, resilience, and calmness. Regular gratitude activates the brain’s reward pathways, increasing serotonin and dopamine. It is the same “feel- good” chemical that lifts our mood and strengthens our sense of connection. Over time, this gentle practice helps us see the good more easily, even on harder days. It’s proof that something as simple as a few moments of appreciation can shift our inner landscape in lasting ways. As the days grow shorter and the year begins to wind down, we’re invited to slow our pace and notice the small, golden moments that make up our days. Gratitude doesn’t always ask for grand gestures; it asks for presence. It’s the warm mug between your hands, the laughter that fills a quiet space, the breath that reminds you that you’re here. When we take the time to notice these moments, we shift from rushing through life to savoring it, and our bodies, minds, and hearts begin to soften in return.
Gratitude also brings us back to what is real. When life feels full or uncertain, it reminds us that peace doesn’t come from having more, but from noticing what’s already here. The more we return to this practice, the more our perspective begins to soften. Our small world feels bigger, brighter, and more possible when we take inventory of what’s working, what’s beautiful, and what’s holding us up. This holiday season, try weaving gratitude into your rhythm in ways that feel natural and meaningful. Maybe it’s pausing before a meal to appreciate the hands that prepared it or reflecting on one high- light from your day during your evening wind-down. Try taking a “gratitude walk” and noticing the crisp air or the way the light hits the trees. You might even start a gratitude jar at home or with your team that consists of small notes that become reminders of joy on the days you need it most. As we move through the holiday season, let gratitude be your anchor.
policies remain unchanged, we continually refine how we manage our work to align with our desired impact. If you have questions about the new Work Location policy, please contact your function leader, CX, or refer to the Collaborator Guidebook.
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Mission Fufillment Finding Comfort and Guidance Through the ANA Code of Ethics
Nursing is a demanding yet rewarding career path centered on human care. Consequently, this dynamic and imperfect profession holds great responsibility for those who earn licensure. As educators, we recognize that practicing the art and science of nursing is a privilege, not a right. Nurses consistently put their patients first, and as a result, the job can leave you feeling exhilarated, depleted, thrilled, scared, happy, and exhausted, all in the same 12-hour shift. As educators preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals, we must remind our learners to find balance. Nurses must not only care for their patients and communities, but also care for themselves. Our learners have many key stakeholders in their corner. One of the most important is the American Nurses Association (ANA), specifically through its Code of Ethics (COE). As many of us know, licensed nurses must follow the Nurse Practice Act in each state where they are licensed. In addition, all licensed nurses are ethically held to the standards set forth by the ANA COE. Providing our learners with knowl- edge and understanding of the ANA COE can be empowering, especially as nurses encounter challenging situations and must make complex decisions every day. The COE was recently revised to include 10 Provisions . These provisions provide guidance and inspiration for nurses of all backgrounds and career trajectories.
If you are preparing your learners for potential workplace conflicts, I suggest you review Provisions 5 and 6, “Duties to Self” and “Ethical Work Environments.” If you have a particularly challenging learner in a clinical setting, see Provision 8, “Collaborative Relationships.” If you are trying to keep your learners focused on their career path while contributing to the greater good, provisions 7 and 9 explain “Knowledge Development” and “Commitment to Society” in a way that applies to practicing nurses of all ages and scopes. It is important to incorporate real-world scenarios into our teaching so that learners can engage with and apply the 10 provisions before going into the practice arena. As an NCLEX coach working with both RN and PN learners, I make a concerted effort to emphasize ethics in all webinars and individually, especially when reviewing the NCSBN test plans. Both the RN and PN test plans highlight the importance of ethical practice: RN under “Management of Care,” and PN under “Coordination of Care.” Each test plan states that a nurse shall: “Practice in a manner consistent with the nurses’ code of ethics.” By grounding our practice in the ANA Code of Ethics, we not only uphold the integrity of the profession but also empower our learners to navigate the challenges of a career with confidence, competence, and compassion. Respectfully, Stephanie Orth, PhD, RN
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Nightingale Classifieds
Referral Bonus Program: $250 bonus is available for all positions.
Happy holidays, Fellow Collaborators, As we look ahead to 2026, the Nightingale Education Group Talent Acquisition (TA) team is preparing for another exciting year of growth. We will seek exceptional new talent to help us continue fulfilling our purpose and we’d love your help finding them! Remember, the organization offers referral bonuses for all open positions. Referrals have always played a key role in how we grow, and we appreciate your continued support in helping us find great people to join our growing organization.
$500, $750, and $1,000+ referral bonuses are available for certain positions (manager, director, assistant professor, assistant vice president, etc.). We have many exciting initiatives launching next year, so be sure to visit the Career page on the website and keep an eye out for communications on the latest information regarding open positions and opportunities to refer talented candidates.
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