NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Oct. 8, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) total grant support of Stark State College’s NEO-WIN (Northeast Ohio Workforce Initiative in Nursing) program now stands at $3.98 million.

In April, Stark State was one of only 16 community colleges nationwide to receive a highly competitive DOL Strengthening Community Colleges grant for $1.75 million. Recently, the DOL announced Stark State was one of several initial grantees to receive an additional $2.23 million toward the program.

“The initial grant was a tremendous accomplishment for our students and health care partners regionally,” said Pat Roberts, Ph.D., vice president of marketing, advancement and partnerships at Stark State. “It has now become even more impactful with the additional grant award. This critical initiative will enable Stark State to work closely with hospitals in the region to graduate more nurses.”

The NEO-WIN project is a regional, career-building partnership among Stark State, employers, workforce organizations and other industry stakeholders. Its objective is to recruit, retain and provide career enhancement opportunities to underserved students in registered nursing (RN) and licensed practical nursing (LPN). Grant funds will be used to increase enrollment, graduation and connections with health care employers in the College’s nursing programs, with a focus on underserved students. The most recent grant award will also provide funds for additional project personnel, data management, and enhanced coaching and supportive services for students.

Nursing is one of the most in-demand careers in the region, state and nation. Stark State offers students an affordable and achievable into the field through several high-quality programs that are aligned with local hospital and health care needs.

For more information, contact Collyn Floyd, director of marketing and public relations, at 330-494-6170 or cfloyd@starkstate.edu.