Mega Doctor News
By Roberto Hugo González
The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Apprenticeships has approved RGV College’s inaugural Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program. To commemorate this milestone, 12 nursing students from RGV College were celebrated in a White Coat Ceremony. They will commence their professional journey while participating in paid, on-the-job training at DHR Health, Rio Grande Valley’s largest healthcare provider, helping curb the national nursing shortage.
Traditionally, nursing students have to balance their studies with employment obligations. However, through this apprenticeship with DHR Health, RGV College nursing students will not only receive compensation but also the necessary support to successfully pursue their education and clinical requirements.
Julian Alvarez, Senior Vice President of Lone Star National Bank and former Texas Workforce Commissioner, highlighted the significance of the day for South Texas and the state as a whole. Appointed by Governor Abbott in 2016 to the Texas Workforce Commission to represent labor interests, Alvarez recounted the program’s inception in 2019, spurred by Texas’s low unemployment rate of 3.6%. He acknowledged key figures like Frank Almaraz, Dr. Daniel King, Dr. Annabelle Palomo, and representatives from Senator Juan Hinojosa’s office.
“By 2050, Texas is expected to face a 200 to 450 registered nurses’ shortage,” Alvarez emphasized. “Reviewing and expediting the registered nursing program curriculum without compromising quality was critical. RGV Educational institutions, state, and nation will implement this apprenticeship model’s success.”
Joel Ramos, Director of the Nursing Program at RGV College, explained that apprenticeship programs were traditionally associated with trades like plumbing, culinary arts, and welding. He highlighted the unique aspects of the nursing apprenticeship, which provides students with one-on-one mentorship for a year in various nursing specialties. This personalized training is rare and significantly benefits the students.
“Ensuring the program’s effectiveness and integrity involved rigorous scrutiny from DHR Health, RGV College, and the Board of Nursing,” Ramos said. “I am incredibly proud of the dedication and passion of our students, which are evident in their clinical performance and active engagement in learning. We hope this program serves as a model for other regional institutions.”
Mariam A. Hammad, Chief Nursing Officer at DHR Health, emphasized the critical role of healthcare institutions in supporting nursing apprenticeship programs. DHR Health, having launched the first nursing apprenticeship program nationwide, demonstrates its commitment to healthcare excellence. Hammad highlighted the importance of partnerships with educational institutions like RGV College to provide comprehensive training and support for students.
“We integrate students into our team, offering mentorship, mental health support, and flexibility to ensure their success,” Hammad stated. “Our commitment is to develop skillful, well-trained nurses capable of delivering high-quality care to patients and the community.”
Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, Mayor of Pharr and DHR Health Physician, congratulated the students and Dr. Palomo on their achievements and efforts. He praised DHR Health’s innovative approach to healthcare, prioritizing the local community of the Rio Grande Valley. Hernandez encouraged students to embrace their journey within the supportive DHR Health family.
“Investing in human capital is paramount,” Hernandez noted. “We are proud of our nursing programs’ high scores and achievements and remain committed to expanding educational opportunities. Dr. Palomo’s faith, humility, and dedication to pushing students and the partnership forward are commendable.”
Dr. Saroja Viswamitra, Chief Medical Officer at DHR Health, expressed happiness and excitement about the innovative programs at DHR Health. She congratulated DHR Health and welcomed the 12 new nursing students to the DHR Health family. Viswamitra emphasized the importance of patient-centered care and nurses’ integral role in providing care to future generations in the Rio Grande Valley.
“Our goal is to develop local talent, eliminating the need to bring nurses from other cities,” Viswamitra said. “We are committed to supporting our new nursing students and recognizing their invaluable contributions.”
Dr. Annabelle Palomo, CEO and President of RGV College, expressed gratitude for the support from the City of Pharr, Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, Pharr EDC Victor Pérez, and Region One. She acknowledged the significant contributions of key individuals that made this program possible. Palomo emphasized the extensive collaboration between DHR Health and RGV College required to develop the nursing apprenticeship program.
“Balancing work and school is challenging, but we are here to support you,” Palomo reassured the students. “We are confident in the program’s success and are exploring potential articulation agreements with UTRGV for further education. This collaboration is a true community effort addressing regional needs.”
The White Coat Ceremony marks a historic milestone for RGV College and DHR Health. This innovative Registered Nurse Apprenticeship Program sets a precedent for future nursing education and community collaboration. With the combined efforts of key leaders and institutions, the program aims to develop skilled nurses who will provide high-quality care to the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
