After spending 15 years in marketing, John Jadia felt a strong desire to switch careers and help others as a nurse. He was a bit anxious about this big change but found great support at Cal State Fullerton’s School of Nursing. It was here that he received hands-on clinical training and developed essential skills for his new role as an emergency RN at Providence Mission Viejo Hospital.
“My time in the School of Nursing taught me the knowledge and confidence I needed. The faculty encouraged us to think critically and focus on delivering top-notch patient care,” Jadia shared.
Cal State Fullerton’s School of Nursing has been guiding students like Jadia for 50 years, making a substantial impact on Orange County’s healthcare workforce. The school celebrated its anniversary on March 11, bringing together faculty, staff, and students to highlight its achievements.
Back in 1974, the nursing program started with just 51 students and four teachers. Now, it has grown to more than 600 students and has graduated nearly 8,000 nurses, many of whom serve in Orange County and beyond. In the last decade, the school has secured over $20 million in grants for research and training. This includes a significant $5 million grant from CalOptima Health to cultivate the next generation of nursing leaders.
“The School of Nursing has made an unmatched impact on our community over the last 50 years,” said Celestina Barbosa-Leiker, dean of the College of Health and Human Development.
University President Ronald S. Rochon emphasized the importance of nursing during the celebration. He told students, “You’re entering a field of service and dignity. Remember, what you’re about to do is essential.”
In its journey, Cal State Fullerton has been a leader in nursing education. The first RN to BSN program was launched in 1974, paving the way for national accreditation in 1981. In 2000, the School introduced its first Master of Science in Nursing program, which now has various specializations, including nursing leadership and women’s health.
“Our graduates achieve an impressive average first-time pass rate of 95% on their licensing exams, well above the required 80%,” noted Sadeeka Al-Majid, the interim director of the School of Nursing. “We will keep pushing our students to excel and prepare them for leadership roles in their fields.”
To stay current with the fast-changing healthcare landscape, the School has invested in modern facilities for hands-on learning. In spaces like the Nursing Simulation Center, students practice patient care techniques on simulation mannequins while learning valuable teamwork and communication skills with guidance from experienced faculty.
Strong partnerships with over 300 organizations, including Kaiser Permanente and Children’s Hospital of Orange County, provide students with vital real-world experience in various healthcare settings. Kerri Ruppert Schiller, CFO of Children’s Hospital, remarked, "These collaborations are crucial for enhancing nursing education and shaping the future of the profession."
Overall, Cal State Fullerton’s School of Nursing has built a legacy over five decades, continuously adapting and evolving to meet the needs of healthcare and nurturing the next era of nursing professionals. For more information, you can visit the CSUF Nursing School.
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