Rome, Ga. (April 17, 2025) – Piedmont Healthcare proudly participated as a Platinum Sponsor at the Georgia Highlands College Nursing Science Symposium on Friday, April 11. This event, aimed at nursing educators and students, focused on essential topics such as workforce-ready skills, resilience, and professional growth.
Representing Piedmont Healthcare were Andrea Wilkins Howard, Director of Clinical Practice / Nursing Residency Program; Jim Gay, Nurse Residency Coordinator at Piedmont Mountainside; Kristie Richardson, Nurse Residency Coordinator at Piedmont Atlanta; Lauren Williamson, Nurse Residency Coordinator at Piedmont Atlanta; Leah Marshall, Nurse Manager, 2 North at Piedmont Cartersville; Julie Jones, Nurse Residency Coordinator at Piedmont Cartersville; and Jenni Borosky, Director of Academic Engagement.
Andrea Wilkins Howard commented on the event, stating, "The Nursing Science Symposium was an excellent platform for engaging with future nursing professionals and educators. It was inspiring to see the dedication and enthusiasm of the attendees, and we are committed to supporting their journey toward excellence in nursing."
The symposium began with breakfast and vendor visits, allowing attendees to connect with various sponsors. Shea Walker, DNP, RN, welcomed everyone as the MC of the event, setting the stage for a day of insightful discussions and learning.
Maria Flores-Harris, DNP, RN, CNE, delivered the keynote address, "Charting Your Path in Nursing: The Importance of Professional Identity," emphasizing the significance of developing a strong professional identity in nursing. Following the keynote, attendees transitioned to breakout sessions, where they explored topics such as shared governance, high-impact practices in ASN education, and building resilience in healthcare professionals.
During lunch, attendees evaluated the nursing science poster presentations, fostering an environment of collaborative learning and exchange of innovative ideas, further enriching the symposium experience. The Piedmont nurse residency team presented “Looking Back to Help New Nurses Thrive” and shared how residency programs should be considered a strategic workforce investment. The team presented data on Piedmont's residency program's measurable impact on retention and organizational outcomes.
The afternoon breakout sessions continued with discussions on building clinical judgment in the classroom and clinical settings, as well as practical skills like "Stop the Bleed." These sessions provided valuable insights and practical knowledge to enhance nursing education and practice.
The day concluded with a final plenary session by Rhonda P. James-Jones, DMIN, MDIV, MED, CPS, BCC, who spoke on "Building Resilience and Retention in Nursing: Strategies, Principles, and Inspirations (Grounding Not Grinding)." Her talk provided strategies to foster resilience and retention in nursing, inspiring attendees to implement these principles in their practice.
In addition to participating in the symposium, Piedmont Healthcare highlighted its Nursing Scholars Program. This initiative supports qualified nursing students by providing financial assistance to defray the cost of their education and offering them the opportunity to work as Piedmont nurses after graduation. The program awards $2,500 per semester, up to $10,000, and includes a service commitment to Piedmont for each semester of scholarship received. This commitment begins after graduation, passing the NCLEX exam, and starting full-time employment. This program empowers students to join a leading healthcare provider in the Southeast and positively impact the lives of patients across Georgia and beyond.
Piedmont Healthcare also showcased its RN Residency Program. This comprehensive 12-month transition-to-practice initiative has recently earned accreditation from the Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP). This program prepares new graduate nurses through education, mentorship, and peer support, equipping them with the skills necessary to improve quality and safety at the point of care. Nurse residents will develop clinical judgment, cultivate communication skills, and engage in cohort experiences to promote professional socialization and commitment to nursing. Opportunities are available in various specialties, including Acute Care, Critical Care, Emergency Department, Women's Services, Cardiovascular/Progressive Care, Surgical Services, and Transplant. Both programs reflect Piedmont Healthcare's teamwork, excellence, and continuous improvement values.
The symposium offered valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and fostering a community dedicated to advancing nursing education. Piedmont Healthcare's participation underscored its commitment to nurturing the next generation of nursing professionals and promoting the importance of resilience and professional growth.
Are you ready to take the next step in your nursing career with Piedmont Healthcare?