St. John’s Episcopal Hospital Partners with Plaza College

Far Rockaway, New York, February 28, 2025 — St. John’s Episcopal Hospital is pleased to announce Plaza College as the academic partner for its Nurse Residency Program – a collaboration that enhances the development of new nurses and strengthens the future of healthcare.

“In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, the need for well-prepared, competent, and confident nurses has never been greater. Our partnership with Plaza College bridges the gap between academic preparation and professional practice, strengthening the future of nursing and investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals,” said Denise Potts, DNP, MSN-Ed, RNC, EHS Assistant Vice President of Professional Practice.

Through this partnership, Plaza College nursing students will complete their clinical rotations at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, gaining hands-on experience while immersing themselves in the health system’s culture, values, and patient care standards. Plaza College will also have representation on the hospital’s Nurse Residency Program Advisory Board, ensuring the program remains dynamic and responsive to the evolving needs of nursing education and the healthcare workforce.

The clinical rotations provide students with valuable, real-world skills as they engage with interdisciplinary teams, technology, and evidence-based practices. More importantly, this collaboration creates a direct recruitment pipeline to the Nurse Residency Program, ensuring a seamless transition from student to professional nurse.

“Our partnership with Plaza College reflects our commitment to developing a skilled and compassionate workforce,” said Donald T. Morrish, MD, MMM, Chief Executive Officer of Episcopal Health Services. “By integrating academic excellence with hands-on clinical learning, we are preparing new nurses for success, and ensuring our community receives the high quality care they deserve for years to come.”

“Plaza is very proud to be partnered with St. John’s Episcopal Hospital,” said Chad Callahan, the Provost of Plaza College. “It is our mission to work together to prepare capable bedside nurses that can take on paramount specialties such as critical care, women’s health, pediatrics, and mental health. This partnership has afforded the students the opportunity of learning by interacting with patients from diverse and complex backgrounds. We look forward to expanding our partnership to include additional professions that will reinforce interdisciplinary collaboration within the healthcare industry.”

Plaza College faculty will also provide critical insights into the residents’ academic preparation, helping St. John’s to refine its orientation and transition process for new nurses. By aligning educational objectives with clinical expectations, this partnership fosters a structured and supportive learning environment, empowering new nurses with the confidence and competence needed to succeed from day one.

“This endeavor is truly exciting because it keeps us closely connected to the academic environment, helps us attract and develop new nurses, and inspires our veteran nurses as they mentor the next generation,” said Keisha-Ann Wisdom, DHA, MBA, BSN, RN, NEA-BC, Senior Vice President of Patient Services & Chief Nursing Officer at EHS.

Together, St. John’s and Plaza College are building a stronger, more resilient nursing workforce – one that is ready to meet the challenges of modern healthcare with excellence and compassion.