Laurel graduate and Beauty Bar owner, Tiara Blosser, came in for a visit to show our Cosmetology students a demonstration on a how to do a blowout! It was great to have her in the clinic helping expand the knowledge and skill set these students get access to through amazing local employers like the Beauty Bar! Thank you Tiara, we hope to see you back soon!

Laurel College of Technology welcomed Dr. Lynn M. Linder and Dr. Theresa Black from West Virginia Wesleyan College to campus on Friday, September 13th to sign a collaborative agreement for a new educational pathway for Laurel Nursing graduates.

First Row, Left to Right: Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes President & CEO, Dr. Lynn M. Linder, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs of West Virginia Wesleyan College

Second Row: Dr. Michelle Borland, Nursing Program Director for Laurel College of Technology, Sherri Rimel, Campus President for Laurel College of Technology, Dr. Theresa Black, Associate Professor of Nursing

 

 

MORGANTOWN, W. VA. SEPTEMBER 13, 2024 – Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, West Virginia is excited to announce a new collaborative effort with West Virginia Wesleyan College of Buckhannon, West Virginia to allow graduates of Laurel’s 20-month Associate Degree of Nursing program to expand their education through an RN to Master Science in Nursing opportunity. The agreement allows eligible Laurel graduates who pass the NCLEX and obtain the credentials to be a Registered Nurse through the West Virginia RN Board to apply for enrollment in WVWC’s Master Science in Nursing program. According to the agreement, WVWC will accept eight eligible students a year who after an individualized review for potential admission for graduates meet the predetermined criteria.

Laurel’s Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN) is a 71 credit program that spans over 5 semesters and is designed to prepare the graduate to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for registered nurses and to enter a career as a beginning practitioner of nursing.�� In June of 2024, Laurel received initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Public information about accreditation is disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program on the ACEN website. Laurel has designed the courses to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people, a view of the patient as an integrated, unique individual that requires nursing knowledge and skills. The program and simulation center is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified nurses.

“Our program, and the students in it, are held to rigorous expectations for the safety of future patients and the care our students will provide the community,” states Doug Decker, Ph. D., Executive Vice President of Laurel Institutes. “We’re excited to see this pathway open up for our graduates. This agreement creates an additional entry point for students who want to expand on their career and professional training and complete a masters’ degree.”

West Virginia Wesleyan College offers graduate programs in nursing with various pathways and points of entrance. Currently, students can choose between Master of Science in Nursing programs with specializations in Nursing Leadership or the Family Nurse Practitioner. The school also offers Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwifery options in collaboration with Shenandoah University. For the past two years, the College has offered an RN to MSN program, which allows nurses with an associate degree in nursing to complete bridge course work and then directly enroll into the MSN program.��

Coursework for the graduate programs in the School of Nursing at West Virginia Wesleyan College is offered in a hybrid format including online, asynchronous, and limited on campus residency experiences.����

“Our College is dedicated to providing flexible and accessible continuing education opportunities for nurses at all career stages,” said Dr. Lynn M. Linder, Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. “This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to cultivate a highly skilled health care workforce for West Virginia. We’re thrilled to offer programs that accommodate the demanding schedules of working nurses while advancing their professional development.”

 

ABOUT �ǿմ�ý

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker,��Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the��WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV��Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, WV RN Board, and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.��Laurel has over 750 current students and more than 5,000 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education.��Learn more at laurel.edu.

ABOUT WEST VIRGINIA WESLEYAN COLLEGE
West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC) is a private, four-year residential liberal arts and sciences college in Buckhannon, West Virginia. A tradition of excellence for more than 130 years, West Virginia Wesleyan is home to 14 Fulbright Scholars. The Princeton Review ranked Wesleyan as one of its 2023 Best Colleges in the Southeastern Region of the United States.��U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best College Rankings designated Wesleyan seventh in Best Value – Regional Universities (South). WVWC offers students nearly 60 majors and 40 minors; graduate programs in athletic training, business administration, creative writing, nursing and clinical mental health counseling; 21 NCAA Division II athletic programs; multiple performing arts groups; and more than 50 organizations. Founded in 1890, the College is closely affiliated with the United Methodist Church and abides by the Wesley doctrine that emphasizes service to others. For more information, visit.

Laurel College of Technology held their Fall 2024 graduation ceremony on September 13, 2024. Opening comments were given by CEO and President of Laurel Institutes, Nancy Decker, saying “We couldn’t be more proud of your hard work. We know this is not always an easy journey, but here you are, and that alone is huge.” First to be recognized was the class Salutatorian, Hannah Martin. Next to be recognized were the September 2024 Distinguished Graduates, Victoria Hershman and Hannah Martin.��

During the ceremony, Laurel’s graduating Nursing students were also recognized and celebrated with a Pinning Ceremony led by Program Director of Nursing, Dr. Michelle Borland. Borland led the presentation of pins and talked to the class about what it means to be a nurse. “You will never be bored. You will always be frustrated,” she said. “You will be surrounded by challenges. You will step into people’s lives and you will make a difference.” Borland also says “You each brought something to my nursing career, and the career of your instructors, every conversation was a learning experience and we cannot thank you enough.” She and Clinical Director, Mrs. Hillary DeWitt, presented the pins to each of the six graduates with evident pride for each student.��

Following the Pinning Ceremony, Director of Education, Alfred Vallano, presented the Degrees and Diplomas to the graduates. Career Services Coordinator, Laurel Muhly-Alexander, reported that 50% of the September graduating class have already accepted an employment offer within their program of study! The following students were awarded Specialized Associate Degrees and Diplomas in the following programs:��

 

Specialized Associate Degree Programs:

Electrical Technician

Gary Flesher

 

Nursing

Jacob Allen

Sarah Dalzotto

Blake Greener

Victoria Hershman

Allison Hott

Alyssa Sauriol

 

Diploma Programs:

Cosmetology

Mary Croskey

Leah Elliot

Hannah Martin

ShyAnn Todd

Zoe Vannoy

 

Nail Technician

Jaden Wilson

Beginning September, 4th 2024, Laurel will offer a newly re-designed 8-month Nail Technician program as an evening option. The program teaches students comprehensive knowledge and instruction in the understanding of nail care and design. The program also provides students skill development in areas such as natural manicuring, pedicuring, nail design, and artistry! Laurel also included instruction in traditional and contemporary techniques for nail enhancements and nail extensions! With classes held three days a week, Tuesday through Thursday, in the evenings from 5 PM – 9:30 PM, students will complete the state required 400 hours of theory instruction and skill practice.

Laurel has designed the curriculum to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people – helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field.The Nail Technician program offers real-life experience in our on-site Student Cosmetology Clinic, used for student training and skill development. Laurel is a Redken Premier partner school, which is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified professionals in our area.

Laurel College of Technology believes in providing career and professional education with specialized associate degrees, diploma programs, and professional certifications for a variety of industries. For further information, visit www.laurel.edu, send an email to contactform@laurel.edu, or contact the Morgantown campus directly at 304-381-4097.

 

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Laurel College of Technology held their annual Week of Service on June 10th through the 14th at their Morgantown campus, located at 200 Wedgewood Drive in Morgantown, WV, just off of Van Voorhis Road.

Laurel got the community involved as they dedicate this week to raising funds for Animal Friends of North Central WV and the WVU Children’s Hospital Radiothon hosted by WVAQ & WKKW later this fall. Laurel had a great week of events, including raffle ticket drawings, student salon services, on-site food trucks, STEM projects for children in the community, and live on location appearance from WKKW and their boombox! “It’s always great to see this week come to fruition, our staff and students do a great job and we are always excited to see members of the community.” says Doug Decker, VP of Operations at Laurel. “We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who came out to support us here at Laurel, as always, we appreciate how involved this community is when it comes to giving back.”

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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The ADN Nursing program of Laurel College of Technology at the Morgantown campus located in Morgantown, West Virginia is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the West Virginia RN Board. The Accreditation Commision for Education in Nursing is located at 3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326. The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the ADN nursing program is initial accreditation. Laurel offers a direct route for ADN and an LPN/Paramedic to ADN route. Public information disclosed by the ACEN regarding this program on the ACEN website.

Laurel’s Associate Degree of Nursing (ADN), a 71 credit program that spans over 5 semesters, and the LPN/Paramedic to ADN, which is 4 semesters, are designed to prepare the graduate to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) for Registered Nurses and to enter a career as a beginning practitioner of nursing. Laurel’s coursework provides students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people, a view of the patient as a unique individual that requires nursing knowledge and skills. The program and simulation center is reflective of Laurel’s commitment to preparing exceptional, job-ready professionals in a way that addresses the ever-increasing need for qualified nurses.

“Our program, and the students in it, will be held to rigorous expectations for the safety of future patients and the care our students will provide the community,” states Douglas Decker, Executive Vice President of Laurel. The nursing program has a well-designed and equipped simulation lab that students will utilize throughout the program to prepare them for the Next-GEN NCLEX, critical thinking, and patient care. Laurel also adopted Virtual simulation in class learning to provide educational and useful scenarios. The curriculum students will take includes courses in Human Growth & Development, Fundamentals of Nursing, Mental Health Nursing, and much more!

Laurel is also pleased to have Dr. Michelle Borland with them as the Director of Nursing throughout the development and accreditation process. Dr. Borland is a resident of Uniontown, PA and owned and operated a rehabilitation and fitness center where she provided rehabilitation therapy and taught aerobics and martial arts for 17 years. She has over 20 years of teaching experience; teaching in high schools, hospitals, and universities. She also has an extensive educational background including a Doctorate in Nursing Practice, a Post-Master’s certificate as Nurse Practitioner, a Master’s degree in Nursing Education, Bachelor degrees in Nursing, Physical Education, and Athletic Training! She holds certification as Family Nurse Practitioner both in WV and PA, Nurse Educator, ACLS & BLS instructor as well as a license as an RN in WV and PA. She has multiple publications in journals, text, and online editorials. Dr. Borland states she is very excited to continue her journey with Laurel and is ready to assist our students in becoming future nurses!

With small class sizes and great faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great healthcare workers for the community and surrounding areas! In addition, Laurel College of Technology has established healthcare affiliations with Mon-Health, WVU Medicine in Morgantown and Uniontown (PA) as well as Encompass Health and Select Specialty Hospitals in Morgantown, as well as Washington Health System in Pennsylvania. The students in Laurel College of Technology’s healthcare programs will receive invaluable clinical experiences from all affiliations.

Laurel’s Nursing program has new class starts every January, May, and September, offering the option for more frequent opportunity for potential students. Find more information on Laurel’s programs at laurel.edu/nursing or laurel.edu/lpnparamedic-adn-transition.

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

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Laurel College of Technology held their Spring 2024 graduation ceremony on May 17, 2024. Opening comments were given by CEO and President of Laurel Institutes, Nancy Decker, saying “it’s not always easy, so we are excited to be here to celebrate your success and the wonderful support system you had throughout this educational journey.”

First to be recognized were the class Valedictorians, Kyra Rottler, Isaac Talkington, Stacey Peterson, and Mela Stewart. The Salutatorians we also recognized, Kaela Bowers, Carley Hazlett, and Sydney Fink. Next to be recognized were the May 2024 Distinguished Graduates, Gina Campbell, Alissa Payne & Gabrielle Riggleman. Kathleen Sypolt, Director of Education, then presented the Degrees and Diplomas to the graduates. Campus President, Sherri Rimel also reported that 40% of May graduating class have already accepted an employment offer within their program of study!

The following students were awarded Specialized Associate Degrees and Diplomas in the following programs:

Degree Programs:

Accounting & Business Administration

• Jessica Craig

Cardiovascular Technology

• Myah Gross

Electrical Technician

• Delton Logan
• Issac Talkington
• Evan Wiseman

LPN/Paramedic to ADN Transition Program

• Sloane Arco
• Julia Budzinski
• Madison Burchill
• Gina Campbell
• Sadie Daniel
• Destiny Matusky
• Andrea Mayle
• Coral Mossburg
• Laina McConnell
• Tara Philips
• John Phiri
• Melissa Rogers
• Dana Webster
• Ayeesha Ridgely
• Shelby Wilmoth
• Sara Yacup

Nursing

• Stacey Anderson
• Leeanna Downey
• Skyla Dulin
• Edward Goodwin
• Gabrielle Riggleman

Diploma Programs:

Cosmetology

• Anna Downs
• Emily Hunter
• Alissa Payne
• Kendra Pryce
• Emily Rowe

Esthetics

• Kaela Brown
• Cammie Bowman
• Gina Clark
• Sydney Fiffik
• Carley Hazlett
• Chloe Jones
• Stacey Peterson
• Kyra Rottler
• Jordan Skidmore
• Mela Stewart

Nail Technician

• Madison Greathouse

 

Founded in 1985 by Christopher and Nancy Decker, Laurel Institutes are a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania, North Central West Virginia, and Northern South Carolina. Laurel College of Technology located in Morgantown, WV is licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, initially accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. Laurel has over 700 current students and more than 4,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology and early childhood education. Learn more at laurel.edu.

# # #

Laurel College of Technology excitedly opened the doors and enrolled students into their newest 16-month Associate’s Degree of Cardiovascular Technology program in September 2022. The program coursework is designed to provide the students with an awareness of the value and dignity of people – helping shape them into integrated, unique individuals ready to take on career opportunities in this growing field. Laurel was proud to have the opportunity to graduate their first inaugural class of Cardiovascular Technology students at their January 2024 graduation ceremony.

The graduating class included:

• Timarie Repman of Morgantown, WV
• Alyssa Montgomery of Morgantown, WV
• Kylie Keller of Glen Dale, WV
• Chelsey Sansonetti of Connellsville, PA

Graduates “The most memorable part of my education was finding something that finally clicked with me,” states Timarie Repman, Cardiovascular Technology graduate, “I had a lot of career opportunities after completing the program, I was able to get a job at the clinical site I worked at through my program.” The material covered in the CVT program provides preparation for graduates to take the national certification examination to become a Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) and Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) RCS235 through Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). This program will have access to a well-designed and equipped simulation experience that students will utilize throughout the program to prepare them for certifications, critical thinking, and patient care. Laurel also adopted Virtual Reality simulation units for in class learning to provide educational and useful scenarios.

“The most impactful part of my education was going out to clinicals and seeing how my day to day work life would be in this field,” stated Alyssa Montgomery, Cardiovascular Technology graduate. “I am very proud of myself for sticking with it and getting my degree, I look forward to finally working in this field.” The curriculum the students take include courses in Anatomy & Physiology, Phlebotomy, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, Medical Law & Ethics, Cardiac Sonography, Cardiovascular Technology, Non-invasive Cardiology, and much more!

With small class sizes and great faculty, Laurel has high hopes of helping build great healthcare workers for the community and surrounding areas! “I felt the scan time we got in the classroom was very important to the development of my skills for this field,” says recent program graduate, Chelsey Sansonetti. “The hands-on work we had during class helped me get the job I wanted right out of school,” says Sansonetti. Laurel College of Technology has established healthcare affiliations with Mon-Health, WVU Medicine in Morgantown (WV) and Uniontown (PA), as well as Highlands Hospital in Connellsville (PA), and Washington Health System in Pennsylvania. The students in Laurel College of Technology’s healthcare programs will receive invaluable clinical experiences from all affiliations.

Founded in 1985 as Laurel Business Institute, LCOT is a private, post-secondary specialized associate degree-granting, Career and Technical Education (CTE) provider with four locations throughout Western Pennsylvania and North Central West Virginia. Licensed by the WV Council for Community and Technical College Education, WV Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists, provisionally accredited with the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing and nationally accredited as ‘School of Distinction’ by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, Laurel has over 500 current students and 3,500 alumni across approximately 20 different AST/B Degree and Diploma programs. These programs are focused on high-demand occupational classifications such as skilled trades, health care, information technology, business, cosmetology, and early childhood education.

Laurel College of Technology believes in providing career and professional education with specialized associate degrees, diploma programs, and professional certifications for a variety of industries. For further information, visit www.laurel.edu, send an email to contactform@laurel.edu, or contact the Morgantown campus directly at 304-381-4097.