~ Achieves ACEN Accreditation, Expands Partnerships, and Strengthens Community Impact ~
January 21, 2025 – West Palm Beach, Fla. – HCI College celebrates a year of significant achievements and milestones that underscore its commitment to providing quality educational programs, professional development, and community engagement.
ACEN Accreditation: A Major Milestone
In October, HCI College’s Associate Degree in Nursing program at the West Palm Beach campus earned initial accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This achievement places HCI College among the select percentage of nursing programs that meet ACEN’s standards. Notably, according to data from the Florida Department of Health, out of 183 associate degree nursing programs in Florida, only 38 (approximately 21%) hold ACEN accreditation.
“Receiving ACEN accreditation is a testament to the dedication of our faculty and students, as well as our commitment to excellence in nursing education,” said Celeste Blackwell, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer.
This accreditation benefits students by improving eligibility for funding support from federal and state agencies, and scholarship programs, streamlining credit transfers, and elevating employer confidence in the quality of HCI College’s graduates.
New Academic Partnerships
Demonstrating its dedication to providing students and graduates with comprehensive tools for success, HCI College established four new academic partnerships in 2024:
- Parker University
- Everglades University
- South University
- Post University
These partnerships allow HCI College graduates to seamlessly pursue additional degrees, further enhancing their career prospects, and build upon the College’s existing collaborations.
Expanding Access and Resources
To broaden financial support for its students, HCI College’s Fort Lauderdale campus received approval to offer funding through CareerSource Broward, previously available only at the West Palm Beach campus through CareerSource Palm Beach County. This new funding option, with scholarships of up to $12,000, will help more Broward County residents access quality nursing education at HCI College.
Additionally, the Veterinary Assisting program introduced hands-on learning experiences by partnering with Sea Turtle Adventures, allowing students to participate in sea turtle nest excavations. This initiative enhances career readiness by providing practical field experience.
Engaging in Community Service
HCI College reinforced its commitment to community engagement through various health-centric initiatives, including the Veterinary and Medical Assisting programs hosting four mini-clinics in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. At the mini-clinics, students offered free health screenings and services to help neighbors in need.
Other community service initiatives included:
- Partnering with Justin Bartlett Animal Rescue for a pet adoption event and an ongoing pet supplies drive, promoting animal welfare and community involvement.
- Donating 32 laptops to Centro Educativo Cristiano Bachínivain Chihuahua, Mexico, supporting their dual diploma program for K-12 students and enhancing educational resources.
- Participating in Go Red Day for the American Heart Association, emphasizing cardiovascular health education, and hosting several blood drives with OneBlood, contributing to the local blood supply.
Memberships and Industry Recognition
In 2024, HCI College became a member of the Florida Association of Postsecondary Schools and Colleges (FAPSC), reinforcing its dedication to supporting student success, advocating for advancements in postsecondary education, and contributing to the state’s higher education landscape.
Reflecting on its 2024 achievements, HCI College remains steadfast in its mission to provide exceptional education and create opportunities for students to excel in the healthcare industry. The successes of this year set the stage for continued innovation and growth in 2025.
About HCI College
HCI College is a private accredited postsecondary school in West Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale with diploma and associate degree programs for Nursing, Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting, and Veterinary Assisting. HCI College is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) and licensed by the Florida Commission for Independent Education. HCI’s programs are designed to instill the knowledge and skills of professional practice and foster the values of higher education and social responsibility. HCI faculty consists of experienced practitioners and educators. Instruction involves classroom and hands-on experience with seasoned professionals in the pre-hospital and hospital environments.
