Providing opportunity through a career-ladder approach, for individuals to enhance their education and improve their nursing practice, Helene Fuld endeavors to produce high quality and technically adaptable nurses who are able to function effectively in a changing society.
Providing Opportunities to the Aspirers and Preparing the Best Caring Hands
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, Helene Fuld College of Nursing (HFCN) holds a permanent charter from the Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York and is registered by the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions. Its associate in applied science degree program in nursing is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Inc. The baccalaureate program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. HFCN offers a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to Registered Nurse (RN) Associate Degree Program and an Upper Division Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science (RN to BS) Degree Program that focuses on environmental urban health nursing. HFCN offers a range of support services for students including a library, three nursing arts laboratories, a computer lab, writing support, tutoring in science and nursing, review of the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) exam, a mentoring program, as well as academic and mental health counseling. Furthermore, they provide 24/7 online tutoring as well as on-site tutoring in math, science, and nursing.
The College has a faculty with specialists in each program area; all full-time and adjunct faculties hold Master’s or Doctoral level degrees in their areas of expertise. Prof. Stephen Lawrence, a prominent member of the nursing faculty, is just one of the College’s many success stories. He graduated from HFCN’s LPN to RN Associate Degree Program in 2010. He later earned his Bachelor of Science degree in nursing and Master of Science in nursing education. He then returned to HFCN to impart his knowledge upon students who aspired to become professional registered nurses.
In December 2016, the College bestowed its first Distinguished Alumni Award upon Ms. Joanne Sylvestre, the founder and CEO of Nutressence Network, a non-profit organization that focuses on women’s empowerment and mentors women toward leadership pathways for entrepreneurship and executive level leadership positions.
Life of an Aspiring Nurse at HFCN
Driven by their desire to succeed, the students at HFCN are well aware of the fact that their options are limitless. Upon completion of the LPN to RN Associate Degree Program, graduates are eligible to take the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCLEX-RN) exam and apply for licensure as registered nurses. The RN to BS degree program builds upon the students’ critical thinking skills so that they gain increased knowledge and know-how to face the ever-increasing challenges of the health care system, as graduates practicing in the field. Most HFCN graduates go on to pursue careers within the NYC metropolitan area. Many who have earned their graduate degrees have come back to teach at Helene Fuld College of Nursing.
As part of a social and cultural development program, HFCN celebrates Nurses Day to show appreciation for nurses during National Nurses Week. Twice a year, the college hosts a Pinning and Candle Lighting Ceremony for graduating students. Along with the bi-annual commencement exercises, events are also held at the College to recognize academic achievements and community service.
Taking HFCN Ahead from Strength to Strength
Developing a strategic plan, reorganizing the College’s recruitment efforts, and implementing strategies to develop courteous employees who exemplify excellent customer service are some of the deeds that Dr. Wendy Robinson has achieved during her tenure as the President of the college. Dr. Robinson has brought the community into the college through cultural and wellness initiatives. She is also credited for engaging the faculty, students, and alumni in going out into the community to address the health care needs.
It was during her tenure that HFCN was ranked the number one community college in the nation as compared to 820 other community colleges by WalletHub, a personal finance website. The analysis was made on the basis of various factors such as cost and financing, education outcomes, and career outcomes.
Helene Fuld College of Nursing was ranked the #1 two-year college to produce the highest paid graduates in PayScale’s 2017-2018 College Salary Report.
Opportunities Galore at HFCN to Grow in Knowledge, Understanding, and Skills
Students in the LPN to RN program attain clinical experience with patients of all ages as part of their college curriculum. Students in the RN to BS program are required to participate in outreach activities with community partners and non-profit organizations in the New York City area to complete their coursework. Along with health fairs and health initiatives, HFCN also invites healthcare facilities and organizations that hire nurses to the College to speak with students about career opportunities. HFCN participates in several federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), and Post– 9/11 GI Bill. Students of HFCN are also eligible for several New York State Financial Aid Programs including Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), and Regents Grants for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans. Other sources of financial aid include the Alfreda Brown Memorial Scholarship, Hospital League/District 1199, Training and Upgrading Fund, The Mascione Family Scholarship Program, Peggy Wines Memorial scholarships, Rudin Foundation scholarships, and Switzer Foundation grants.
