Partnership supports 37 working nurses with tuition-free education and career growth
Career-Focused Education for Working Nurses
In May 2025, 22 nurses completed the program. Another 12 will graduate in the summer. Most of these nurses are working full-time while studying part-time—balancing patient care, family, and academics.
“The BSN program was an incredible blessing,” said May graduate Katelynn Weldy. “Balancing work, family, and school was tough. However, the support I received from Glen Oaks and Baker College made it possible. The financial help eliminated stress. Now, I feel prepared to deliver higher-quality care to my community.”
Community Partnerships Broaden Access
Between January and May 2025, 85 students enrolled in the program. Of those, 63 earned their Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) from Glen Oaks. Additionally, the college expanded access by partnering with Three Rivers Beacon Health, which funded BSN education for 22 ADN nurses—even those who graduated from other institutions.
Learn more about nursing programs at Glen Oaks here.
Local Healthcare Leaders Applaud the Program
“This partnership has changed lives,” said Hope Bailey, vice president of nursing at Beacon Health System Three Rivers Health and a Glen Oaks alumna. “It gives nurses a chance to grow without the stress of debt. It’s reignited passion and pride among our staff.”
Sara Birch, dean of health sciences at Glen Oaks, emphasized the program’s broader value. “The grant-funded BSN program offers a pathway to financial security and career advancement. We’re proud of our students and excited to support even more in the years ahead.”
How to Apply to the Glen Oaks and Baker College BSN Program
Interested in learning more about the Glen Oaks & Baker College grant-funded BSN program?
- Visit baker.edu/
- Glen Oaks ADN graduates and students can contact Sara Birch at 269.294.4287 or sbirch226@glenoaks.edu
- ADN nurses from other institutions can contact Sue Kelly, senior admissions advisor at Baker College, at 231.247.0780 or Sue.Kelly@baker.edu
Explore other healthcare programs at Glen Oaks here.
