The Samueli Foundation Awards Vanguard University $830,000 to Support Nursing Education
The Samueli Foundation awarded Vanguard University $830,000 to support the university’s Simulation Healthcare Infrastructure for Nursing Excellence (SHINE) initiative. The Samueli Foundation’s Build OC Fund grant will greatly expand Vanguard’s Department of Nursing’s ability to educate exceptional nurses while increasing the university’s Bachelor of Nursing graduates annually.
“Vanguard students and graduates embrace the call to serve, and this generous grant from the Samueli Foundation helps ensure they are effectively prepared to serve patients with competence and compassion,” said Ryan Hartwig, PhD, provost.
Many of Vanguard’s nursing graduates remain in Orange County’s healthcare sector, directly strengthening local hospitals, clinics, and community health centers. “By raising our capacity, we will significantly increase our production of qualified nurses specifically trained to serve Orange County’s diverse communities with cultural competence and clinical excellence,” said Mike Wilson, PhD, dean, College for Arts and Sciences.
“The Samueli Foundation values community wellness, which aligns with our goals to enhance the pool of well-prepared nurses,” said Sandra Morgan, PhD, executive director, Global Center for Women and Justice at Vanguard University. “This gift allows Vanguard to respond to the current nurse shortage in Orange County.”
The Build OC Fund supports the growth and development of Orange County nonprofit organizations by funding capital projects. The grant will upgrade VU’s two Nursing Simulation Labs with essential equipment to support increased enrollment in our prelicensure Bachelor of Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing programs, including simulation wearable equipment, simulation monitors and software, simulation wearable equipment, and high-fidelity adult and baby manikins. Simulation technology creates realistic learning experiences that replicate actual healthcare environments, accelerating student competency development and workforce readiness.
“The awarded funds will help Vanguard’s Department of Nursing strengthen simulation infrastructure and learning resources, enabling realistic, scenario-based experiences where students can practice critical decision-making in a safe environment,” said Jade Kay, PhD, MSN, PHN, FNP-BC, director, Department of Nursing. “Ultimately, this award will help us graduate nurses who are better prepared to serve our community as competent, compassionate professionals.”
