Date Posted: July 2, 2025
Southern Crescent Technical College (SCTC) proudly hosted a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Wednesday, June 25, at 1:00 PM at its Jasper County Center, commemorating the expansion of its highly successful LPN/Paramedic to RN Bridge program. This significant milestone marks SCTC’s continued commitment to addressing Georgia’s nursing shortage by bringing high-quality, accessible nursing education to more communities.
Nestled in the heart of central Georgia, Jasper County is a close-knit community with a strong heritage of resilience, service, and local pride. By offering in-demand nursing education right in Monticello, SCTC is directly investing in the people of Jasper County by empowering residents to pursue rewarding healthcare careers without having to leave the communities they love.
Launched in January 2024, the RN Bridge program offers an accelerated pathway for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Paramedics with at least one year of field experience to become Registered Nurses in just three semesters. With approval from the Georgia Board of Nursing, the program’s expansion now includes both Jasper and Butts counties, creating 25 new seats at each location starting August 12, 2025.
“Addressing the critical workforce needs in nursing is a top priority for TCSG colleges across Georgia,” said Greg Dozier, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia. “Southern Crescent Technical College is taking bold steps to meet this need. These two new program sites will help graduate approximately 160 registered nurses annually strengthening our healthcare system and creating life-changing career opportunities. We’re investing in Georgia’s future by building a skilled, globally competitive workforce right here in our communities.”
The ceremony drew strong support from local and state leaders who recognized the program’s immediate and long-term impact:
Dr. Kenny Garland, Superintendent of the Jasper County Charter System, emphasized accessibility: “This new nursing lab is a direct response to what we’ve envisioned for our students. We’re thrilled to see it come to life—it represents real opportunity for our community.”
Tony Rogers, Executive Director of the Development Authority of Jasper County, linked the program to local economic growth: “This is exactly the kind of strategic economic development we need. It creates high-demand, high-paying jobs and will have a direct impact on institutions like Jasper Memorial Hospital.”
State Representative Dale Washburn praised the initiative’s alignment with community needs: “We know the nursing shortage is real, and this program provides real solutions. It’s inspiring to see students training to follow their passion while serving a critical need.”
Senator Rick Williams of Georgia Senate District 25 shared a personal reflection on the importance of technical education. “I’m a product of a vocational school. Back in 1973, I graduated as an EMT right here in central Georgia. My daughter is a registered nurse, so I understand firsthand the dedication it takes to enter the healthcare field. I know what it is like to dedicate your life to taking care of others. Technical College education is vital because it allows people to earn their degree while they live and work in the same communities they call home. We’re all working to create and fill good jobs, and this program at Southern Crescent Technical College does just that. This education opportunity provides a direct path to a better quality of life for our constituents.”
SCTC President Dr. Irvin Clark highlighted the College’s strategic vision: “Expanding our Associate of Science in Nursing program to Butts and Jasper Counties ensures students across our service area have access to the education they need to enter high-demand careers. We’re committed to developing the next generation of healthcare professionals, especially in rural Georgia.”
The expansion was made possible through a $3.95 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), along with a $450,000 Nursing Education Program Expansion Grant used to equip both sites with cutting-edge technology. With the RN Bridge program now offered at all six SCTC campuses, the College continues to fulfill its mission of delivering transformative, career-focused education across the region.
As SCTC trains the next generation of nurses, the College remains dedicated to supporting students throughout their academic journey, preparing them to lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.