McLeod Health makes $75K contribution to Coker University nursing program

FLORENCE, S.C. (WBTW) — McLeod Health on Monday announced a $75,000 contribution to Coker University’s nursing program.

“McLeod recognizes the enormous value of the nurse’s contribution in patient care,” Tony Derrick, McLeod Regional Medical Center’s chief nursing officer, said in a statement. “Providing patient advocacy, promotion of a safe environment, participation in shaping health policies and patient education are also key nursing roles.”

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in healthcare professions to add about 1.8 million jobs a year through 2032 — outpacing the average of all other occupations.

Coker launched its nursing program in 2022 and has since expanded its offerings to include the university’s first doctoral track.

“Coker University is doing truly unique things in nursing education. We are so appreciative of the organization’s vote of confidence in all of Coker’s nursing program options,” said Carolyn Hart, Coker’s dean of nursing.

Derrick said the donation is also an investment in future of healthcare across the Pee Dee.

“The relationship and financial support of allied nursing education is imperative to McLeod and our area,” he said. “With competent nurses as part of the medical team, McLeod is capable of carrying out its mission of providing quality healthcare for patients in the region.”

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Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12 . See more of his work here .

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