NEW FUNDS TO SUPPORT NURSING STUDENT TESTING FEES

Thanks to a number of recent new donors, the A-B Tech Foundation has created a number of new scholarship funds for current A-B Tech Nursing students in need of support for the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). Nursing graduates must pass the NCLEX to be licensed and work as a nurse. The NCLEX is a challenging exam that requires preparation as well as additional coursework and clinicals. Students are now offered two options for preparation for the NCLEX. Because of this additional preparation, the most recent nursing cohort had a 100% pass rate for the NCLEX!

Cindy Tate is one of these new donors and created The Lisa Boone Memorial Nursing Fund to support NCLEX test prep fees. Cindy and her best friend Lisa are A-B Tech alumni of the nursing program and spent their careers in nursing here in Buncombe County. Lisa recently passed away, and Cindy wanted to honor friend and support the next generation for nurses. Cynthia writes, "Lisa had a passion for caregiving that extended to not only her patients but family, parents, friends, and anyone who had a need! Her family and friends are honored to continue her giving with this Memorial Fund to help nurses succeed in caregiving!"

Counterbalance is a student support program focused on helping A-B Tech's undeserved student population be successful in achieving their educational and career goals. Support comes in the form of aiding in academic development, assisting students with basic college requirements, and helping to motivate students toward the successful completion of their credentials here at A-B Tech.

To date Counterbalance has helped 380 students work towards achieving their goals. One student writes, "Since being accepted into the project, my life has changed for the better. This project started something for me that I didn't know was possible and it has in turn made events in my life turn around for the better. Going back to school for my degree with the project on my side has made it feel more achievable than I even thought was possible. I cannot give enough thanks to everyone involved in the project." Another has this to say about the program, "As a single woman in recovery, returning to school at the age of 36 was a daunting yet exhilarating decision. This program has provided not only financial assistance but also a community of encouragement and resources that have been vital to my success."

Read more about Counterbalance here.