Published: September 3, 2025
LANSING, Mich. – University of Michigan Health-Sparrow is partnering with The University of Olivet to launch a new Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, addressing the state’s critical nursing shortage by creating a direct pipeline for new talent.
The partnership, which is starting with the new school year, provides The University of Olivet nursing students with clinical training across UM Health-Sparrow. Students will gain experience in diverse settings, from rural hospitals to UM Health-Sparrow’s Level I Trauma Center for advanced care.
Upon graduation, students will be prepared to apply for positions at UM Health-Sparrow or any hospital of their choice. The collaboration ensures the curriculum meets the specific health care needs of the region’s patients. The initiative was driven by UM Health-Sparrow leadership, including U-M Health Regional President Margaret Dimond, who serves on The University of Olivet board.
“This partnership is a direct investment in the future of health care in our community. This program will produce nurses we wouldn’t have had otherwise. It’s a whole new cadre of students who will become our future caregivers,” said Kathy Marble, chief nursing officer at University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Lansing.
The program is designed for 24 students each semester, with the goal of significantly increasing the number of new nurses in the region’s workforce.
“UM Health-Sparrow has been gracious in providing us places for various clinical experiences that enhance our nursing student’s education,” said Jodi Swain, director of nursing at The University of Olivet.
For more information: UofMHealthSparrow.org.
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University of Michigan Health-Sparrow is Mid-Michigan’s premier health care organization and includes hospitals in Lansing, Carson City, Charlotte, Ionia and St. Johns, as well as UM Health-Sparrow Specialty Hospital, Care Network, the Michigan Athletic Club, and AL!VE. UM Health-Sparrow is part of University of Michigan Health. Through the dedication of our 10,000 team members, UM Health-Sparrow pursues a vision to be nationally recognized as a leader in quality and patient experience. For more information, visit UofMHealthSparrow.org.