Gateway Community College’s Nursing Division Director Sheila Solernou, MSN, RN, recently received the Nursing Professional Award at the Southern Connecticut Black Nurses’ Association’s Annual Scholarship and Award Luncheon. 

The Nursing Professional Award was established to acknowledge registered nurses who, through strength of character, commitment and competence, contribute to the advancement of nursing practice and receive recognition from peers. Recipients also participate in community and organizational affairs, demonstrate an ability to work with others, and have an innovative outlook. 

Graduates of GCC’s  nursing program  receive an associate degree designed to prepare registered nurses to function in professional roles utilizing current standards of nursing practice. Graduates are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses and can apply for licensure through the Connecticut Department of Public Health. 

Since its inception in 2002 in response to the dire need for nurses in the greater New Haven area, GCC’s nursing program has almost tripled in size and has produced more than 300 graduates. It features award-winning faculty and is the first and only program of its kind in the state community college system to offer courses and clinical rotations in the evening, making nursing a career option for working students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to pursue it.