California Today

Santiago Canyon College Launches Humanizing Healthcare Initiative to Address Nursing Shortage

18 June 2026 07:30

Santiago Canyon College has launched the Humanizing Healthcare initiative, funded by a two-year state grant, to address the nursing shortage in Orange County. Key facts: - The initiative involves 30 faculty from 21 disciplines and includes a new Medical and Healthcare Humanities certificate, the first of its kind at a California community college.

- It expands access to nursing pathways through tuition-free noncredit certificates like Certified Nursing Assistant and a future Licensed Vocational Nurse certificate. - Partnerships with UC Irvine and Cal State San Bernardino aim to ensure seamless transfer to BSN programs.

- The program emphasizes a holistic, person-centered approach that integrates arts, humanities, and social sciences into health care education. The initiative seeks to prepare empathetic, skilled nurses to meet the region's growing health care needs.

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