Belmont University's Inman College of Nursing and VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System today announced an expanded academic partnership to enhance nursing education and support veterans.
The partnership builds on an existing relationship, as Belmont nursing students have completed clinical rotations at the Nashville VA Medical Center for more than 25 years. For the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, this partnership realizes a priority goal for expanded community relationships driven by the senior leadership team: Executive Director Daniel Dücker, Deputy Executive Director Michael Renfrow and Acting Associate Director for Patient Care Services Emma Phillips, in conjunction with Chief Nurse Mary Harper. Elevating this collaboration, the academic partnership includes two significant enhancements: the integration of a VA faculty member who will offer clinical instruction directly to Belmont students and Belmont’s active participation on the VA's academic committee.
"This is a true partnership — one that benefits both of our organizations and, most importantly, the future nurses and Veterans we serve," said Amanda Docktor, nurse manager at VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System. "By having a VA faculty member work directly with our Belmont colleagues, we're able to provide enriching clinical experiences that give students a deeper understanding of the unique needs of the veteran population. In turn, this helps us cultivate a pipeline of talented nurses prepared to deliver excellent care."
This evolving partnership offers Belmont students who engage in internships or clinical rotations at the VA Hospital a potential pathway to employment opportunities post-graduation, allowing the VA to leverage Belmont's strong nursing program to build a skilled workforce to better serve veterans. This collaboration combines the strengths of both institutions, creating a supportive environment for healthcare students while enhancing care for veterans.
"Collaborating with VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System aligns perfectly with our mission to educate exceptional nurses who are prepared to serve their communities,” said Dr. Julie Honey, dean of Belmont's Inman College of Nursing. “We're grateful for the VA's partnership and commitment to supporting the professional development of our students."
The two institutions also plan to explore expanded opportunities for Belmont alumni and VA staff to continue their education.
"This partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration between academia and healthcare to advance nursing education and, ultimately, improve patient outcomes," Docktor said. "We're excited about the future of this relationship and the chance to work alongside our colleagues at Belmont to support veterans and cultivate the next generation of nursing leaders."