Gastonia Times

Belmont Abbey College has announced that its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Master of Science in Nursing Leadership (MSN) programs have received full accreditation from the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). This accreditation is effective retroactively from February 28, 2024, until December 2029. At the end of this period, CCNE will conduct another site visit to reaffirm the standards.

Dr. Lee-Ann Kenney, Chair and Program Director of the Department of Nursing, expressed gratitude for the accreditation: “We are deeply grateful for this accreditation, which reflects our mission of preparing nurses who not only excel in clinical skills but also embody the values of service, integrity, and compassion.” She emphasized that their programs focus on educating the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—and fostering professional excellence along with a commitment to dignity and care.

The BSN program aims to prepare students as registered nurses with a focus on holistic patient care and ethical practice. The MSN program provides advanced training in specialized nursing roles and leadership. Both programs emphasize evidence-based practice and critical thinking within a framework grounded in Catholic social teaching.

Dr. Joseph Wysocki, Provost at Belmont Abbey College, highlighted the importance of investing in healthcare education: “Investing in the future of healthcare is part of Belmont Abbey’s service to our community. Caring for the sick is a hallmark of Benedictine values, and we believe that infusing Catholic ethics and social teaching into the healthcare curriculum sets future nurses and healthcare leaders up for success in the field.”

The accreditation process involved an evaluation covering curriculum design, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, and institutional resources. This achievement confirms that Belmont Abbey's nursing programs meet national standards necessary for graduates to succeed in various healthcare environments while emphasizing ethical leadership.

Belmont Abbey College remains committed to offering exceptional nursing education aligned with its mission and values. The college aims to ensure its graduates are well-prepared to contribute positively to their communities.