By: Jennifer Gasiorek—
Muncie, IN—Students returned from spring break with a new dean of nursing at the helm at Ivy Tech Community College, Muncie-Henry County campus. Che’Reese Anderson has accepted the position of dean for the School of Nursing. Anderson has more than 20 years of experience and has been with Ivy Tech for 10 years. Most recently, she was the nursing program chair for the Henry County site.
“In-line with COVID-19 protocol, all of Ivy Tech’s courses are being taught virtually. We know the nursing program is important to get our students ready for times such as these,” said Jeffrey D. Scott, Chancellor. “Che’Reese will be a great leader to help these students overcome challenges, stay focused and keep our nursing students on track to complete their studies.”
“My vision is to create an environment where faculty and staff are welcomed, supported, and prepared to produce outstanding students that our workforce partners are proud to hire,” said Anderson.
Anderson is prepared to lead Ivy Tech Muncie-Henry County’s nursing program with 140 students currently enrolled. The College has historically outperformed Indiana and national pass rates for their State Board Certification (NCLEX) exams. Ivy Tech practical nursing (LPN) graduates have a 100% pass rate on PN NCLEX in 2018—present, which is well above the national average of 82.2.
Ivy Tech nursing program’s students and graduates help provide care locally. Between 110-140 Ivy Tech nursing and health science students are completing clinical training at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital. On average the hospital works with 360 of Ivy Tech’s nursing students and is one of the College’s biggest employers with more than 400 Ivy Tech alumni on staff.
“Our employers have told me that our graduates are prepared, professional, resilient, adaptable, and are team players that are committed to continuing to learn and grow,” said Anderson. “I want our students to become healthcare professionals that recognize the vulnerability of each patient and their families. My goal is that our students bring compassion along with their clinical skills to the healthcare field as they are called to care for diverse people,” added Anderson.
Dr. Mia D. Johnson, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs said, “Che’Reese Anderson has an exciting vision for the future of the School of Nursing in Muncie and Henry County. Che’Reese’s cultural competence and ability to connect with students, employers and the community is exactly what we need. I am confident she is the right person for this job.”
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College serves communities across Indiana, providing world-class education and driving economic transformation. It is the state’s largest public postsecondary institution and the nation’s largest singly accredited statewide community college system. It serves as the state’s engine of workforce development, offering high-value degree programs and training that are aligned with the needs of its communities, along with courses and programs that transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana. It is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association.
