FLORENCE — Officials with the University of North Alabama and Helen Keller Hospital have
recently signed a learning agreement that establishes the Keller Initiative for Nursing Diversity (KIND) Program.

The agreement is designed to increase the number of BSN-credentialed nurses who choose to pursue employment with Helen Keller Hospital after graduation, the university said in a news release.

“Our nursing staff and leadership, led by our Chief Nursing Officer Sherry Sands, are the epitome of skilled, tenacious, and caring nursing practice,” said Kyle Buchanan, Helen Keller Hospital president and member of UNA’s Board of Trustees. “This investment in our future and partnership with President (Ken) Kitts, Dean (Tera) Kirkman, and the University of North Alabama team is an example of true alignment with community impact for years to come.”

As part of the KIND Program, Helen Keller Hospital will fully subsidize the tuition and fees for a minimum of two nursing students, the release said. In return, these students sign an agreement to work at the hospital after graduation.

According to UNA, efforts like this program assist Helen Keller Hospital and UNA to continue to reflect the diversity within the Shoals, the region, and the state.

“UNA’s partnership with Helen Keller Hospital has been long-standing,” said Dr. Kirkman, dean of the Anderson College of Nursing and Health Professions. “This collaboration will maximize opportunities to increase the number of nurses working at the bedside in the Shoals.

“Through this collaboration, we will continue to meet the critical needs of the healthcare industry.”

Students who are accepted into the undergraduate nursing program receive information about applying for the KIND Program, UNA said. Two students will be selected from each incoming cohort of Level I undergraduate nursing students.