CHICAGO (CBS) — A partnership between some Chicago education giants and a medical giant could be the key to paving the way for more young people on the South Side to pursue medical careers.
A University of Chicago nurse spoke about how this expansion will help the hospital connect with future employees.
“I'm glad I was able to participate in a program like this.”
Chiara Taylor, a registered nurse and Malcolm X College graduate, talks about City Colleges of Chicago, the University of Chicago, and the University of Chicago Medical Center collaborating to expand medical career programs and facilities.
“If you had told me years ago that this little girl from the South Side of Chicago would grow up to be a nurse and be here today to talk to you about her journey to get here. , I probably wouldn't have believed you,'' Taylor said.
At Kennedy-King College in Inglewood, educational leaders say the expansion will increase access to affordable higher education, bring two new facilities in Washington Park, add 600 jobs and increase clinical It was announced that a laboratory technician program will be offered.
“This investment and this program ensure that more students will have access to the opportunities that post-secondary education truly offers,” said City Colleges of Chicago President Juan Salgado.
With Tuesday's announcement, City Colleges of Chicago will introduce a full nursing program at Kennedy-King College.
This includes an associate degree in nursing and an accredited practical nursing program run by Malcolm X College within Kennedy-King College.
“I think there are a lot of great things coming out of this. One is that people on the south side will be able to get an education and work in the medical field. I think that's great,” Taylor said.
The partnership comes as safety-net hospitals on the South Side struggle to fill openings.
“This is a great time to be in this field. There's a shortage of nurses, so we're waiting for them to come and join us,” Taylor said.
Education leaders said the program will begin this fall.
