New LPN program at Bay Mills Community College to address nurse shortage in region
BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Community College will now be offering courses in licensed practical nursing to address local medical professional shortages.
On June 5, the college received approval from the Michigan Board of Nursing to launch the Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) certificate program. LPN certificates were offered at the college years ago but the program was removed in 1999.
The certificate will qualify people to work as a nurse with a foundation of the standards of the practice. It will also include teachings tied to traditional Native American practices to promote a better understanding of unique cultural, racial and social differences among patients in the area.
School officials said the reason for the return of the program is to help area hospitals address staffing needs and better provide for underserved populations, such as Native Americans.
According to the college, a regional survey done last year shows that 100% of health care employers in Chippewa, Luce and Mackinac counties are experiencing an LPN shortage, with more than half reporting vacancy rates of 20% or higher.
“LPNs are critical members of a health care team, and we’re incredibly excited to play our part in helping address the shortage of health care workers in our community by offering education programs that train those who wish to pursue a career or advance themselves in health care,” said Carrie Perez, director of nursing at Bay Mills Community College.
The program was developed with the help of the Michigan Board of Nursing, National Nursing Accrediting Agencies, Lake Superior State University’s Nursing Program and regional health care partners, including MyMichigan Medical Center Sault and Mackinac Straits Health System.
“This outcome was possible due to the exceptional team that undertook this challenging endeavor of securing approval,” said Bay Mills Community College President Duane Bedell. “I applaud the dedication and effort invested in making this a successful endeavor. I eagerly anticipate witnessing the positive impact that the LPN program will have on our community.”
The program is designed not just to support the local workforce but will also provide more opportunities to students to pursue higher nursing degrees and continue advancing their career. The program will begin teaching students in January 2026. After 12 months of education, program participants will be able to take the Michigan NCLEX-PN exam, which will qualify them for nursing with a license.
— Contact Brendan Wiesner: [email protected]
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