Meadville Medical Center’s Nursing School has been recognized by The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) for the achievement award in the Workforce Innovators category. The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania (HAP) is recognizing 12 projects led by Pennsylvania health care teams that personify hospitals’ mission to provide high-quality care and improve their communities’ health. Started in 1978, HAP’s annual Achievement Awards program recognizes hospitals and health systems that are employing innovative approaches to strengthening the safety and quality of care, enhancing operations and patients’ experience, and partnering with their communities to address public health needs.
This year’s winners were selected from 125 entries. “The 2026 HAP Achievement Awards highlight the innovative ways hospitals are delivering outstanding results for patients,” said HAP President and CEO Nicole Stallings. “Hospitals are vital to Pennsylvania, working inside and outside their walls to improve health and strengthen the communities they serve.” Entries are judged in two divisions based on the organization’s size and selected among the following categories: Workforce Innovators, Optimal Operations, Excellence in Care, Community Champions, and In Safe Hands. The Living the Vision Award—celebrating bold, innovative work that transforms care, improves health, and enhances value—is selected from the overall pool of entries across all size divisions. Entries were scored on specific criteria including results, and adaptability.
“We are honored to be named as an Achievement Award HAP recipient for Workforce Innovators,” states Valerie Bond Waid, MBA, BSN, RN, FACHE, MMC Chief Nurse Executive. “Our Institute for Healthcare Professionals was developed to help our community strengthen our local healthcare workforce. Graduating our own registered and practical nurses supports our hospital, as well as physician offices, clinics, nursing homes, schools, and more. Quality nursing programs improve access to care and enhance the overall health of our community.”
With Pennsylvania facing a projected shortfall of nearly 9,000 RNs by 2032, and rural hospitals experiencing even higher vacancy rates, the healthcare system is under increasing strain. In particular, rural areas face unique challenges, such as higher rates of uninsured individuals, limited access to advanced care, and a reduced healthcare provider base, further complicating efforts to meet community needs. The loss of local nursing education programs posed a severe threat to the region’s healthcare sustainability, promoting the hospital to take decisive action.
The hospital launched a new nursing school under its organizational umbrella, offering both practical and registered nursing programs. This initiative required considerable effort in curriculum development, securing state approval, and navigating the accreditation process. Within 18 months, the hospital successfully established the practical nursing program, achieved accreditation, and graduated its first cohort, all while maintaining a 100% NCLEX pass rate among those who tested.
The hospital’s commitment to local education is reinforced through a model designed to reduce barriers to entry for students. By offering flexible program timelines (ranging from 12 to 20 months), local clinical placements, and affordable tuition options—including substantial scholarships—students are better equipped to succeed. These measures provide an accessible pathway for nontraditional learners, many of whom face financial and logistical barriers to traditional nursing programs.
The winners will be recognized during HAP’s Leadership Summit in early June 2026.
