On March 22, 2024, a group of individuals gathered at Barton College in Wilson, North Carolina to celebrate the progress of the School of Health Sciences on campus. Among those present were North Carolina Senator Buck Newton and North Carolina Representative Ken Fontenot, who presented a ceremonial check of $3.7 million to College leadership, Board of Trustees members, faculty, and students. This funding will support the development of innovative healthcare programs at Barton College aimed at addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals in Wilson and Eastern North Carolina.
Dr. Douglas N. Searcy, president of Barton College, expressed gratitude for the partnership with state legislators and community support in advancing healthcare education and workforce development in the region. The funding secured by lawmakers will primarily go towards the construction of a health science facility featuring a simulation hospital and teaching facility. This initiative is a direct response to the increasing need for healthcare and mental health professionals in Eastern North Carolina.
The region is currently experiencing shortages in nurses, nurse educators, primary care providers, and mental health professionals, creating challenges in access to care for residents. Barton College, as the only institution offering undergraduate, graduate
