MOSES LAKE, WA — Big Bend Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Program has received continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), achieving the highest possible outcome during its recent review process with no findings identified by evaluators.
The accreditation extends through the program's next scheduled evaluation visit in Spring 2034 and affirms that Big Bend's nursing program continues to meet the highest national standards for nursing education.
"This is an extraordinary accomplishment that reflects years of dedication, continuous improvement, and commitment to student success," said Dr. Jeannie Hunt, Dean of Academic Transfer and Allied Health at Big Bend Community College. "Receiving continuing accreditation with no findings demonstrates the exceptional quality of our program and the outstanding work of our faculty and staff."
The result recognizes the leadership of Nursing Program Director Katherine Christian and the collective efforts of the nursing faculty and staff, who spent years preparing for the comprehensive accreditation review. The process involves extensive self-evaluation, evidence collection, assessment of student outcomes, and ongoing program improvement.
While Big Bend's Nursing Program has long been recognized as one of the college's premier academic programs, the accreditation review confirmed its continued excellence in student learning, clinical preparation, assessment practices, and overall program effectiveness.
"Achieving continuing accreditation with no findings speaks volumes about the culture of excellence our Nursing Program has built and sustained," Hunt said. "This review affirms that our students are receiving an exceptional education and are being prepared for success in the nursing profession."
The ACEN accreditation review evaluates nursing programs on multiple standards related to curriculum quality, student achievement, faculty qualifications, resources, and program outcomes. A review resulting in no findings is a significant accomplishment and reflects a program that not only meets accreditation expectations but does so at the highest level.
College leaders praised the Nursing Program's faculty and staff for their unwavering commitment to students, the healthcare community, and the nursing profession.
"The dedication and professionalism of our Nursing Program team exemplify the very best of Big Bend Community College," Hunt said. "Their work continues to strengthen healthcare throughout our region by preparing highly skilled and compassionate nursing professionals."
Big Bend Community College's Associate Degree Nursing Program prepares students for careers as registered nurses through a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom instruction, laboratory learning, and supervised clinical experiences.