TMCC Nursing Program Celebrates Perfect NCLEX Pass Rate and Strong Job Placement
At Truckee Meadows Community College, the journey from nursing student to professional nurse begins with a solid foundation of rigorous education and hands-on experience. TMCC’s Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program graduates consistently demonstrate their exceptional preparation for the nationwide licensing exam known as the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX). In the first quarter of 2024, TMCC’s nursing graduates boasted a 100% pass rate on the exam, ranking the program at number one in the State of Nevada and the United States.
The NCLEX is a standardized exam to determine whether a candidate is ready for entry-level nursing practice. NCLEX uses computer-adaptive testing (CAT) technology to deliver the exam, ensuring a valid and reliable measurement of nursing competence. Passing the exam is vital for nursing graduates to obtain licensure and practice as registered nurses.
The ranking demonstrates the program’s passing rate compared with other programs within TMCC’s licensing jurisdiction, with that of different programs of a similar type (Associate Degree in Nursing), and within the US. The rankings derive from the percentage of graduates passing the NCLEX compared to other programs, with at least ten graduates who took the NCLEX during the same reporting period. All nursing programs with the same percentage of graduates passing the NCLEX will have the same rank.
The high pass rate of TMCC’s graduates underscores the effectiveness of the program’s comprehensive curriculum, dedicated faculty, high-tech simulation laboratories, clinical rotations, and supportive learning environment.
Dr. Jody Covert, director of the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program, attributes the program’s success to a combination of intensive academic coursework and extensive clinical training. “Our students engage in a dynamic learning environment that includes state-of-the-art simulation labs, real-world clinical rotations, and personalized instruction from experienced nursing professionals,” said Covert. This multifaceted approach ensures students are well-versed in theoretical knowledge and adept at practical skills, critical thinking, and compassionate patient care.
Stacy Navarro, a 2024 graduate of the ADN program at TMCC, explained, “The faculty design their exams to prepare us for the NCLEX. I did not have to pay outside resources to prepare for the NCLEX. I used the resources provided by the program and passed the exam on the first try in 85 questions.” Navarro is employed on the telemetry unit at Renown Regional Hospital and enrolled in TMCC’s RN to BSN program.
Sarah Jack, another 2024 graduate, commented, “The faculty present their lectures similar to NCLEX-style questions. They provide case studies, practice questions, and content from textbooks designed to prepare students for the NCLEX. The faculty also use the Health Education Systems Inc. (HESI) review and testing program, administering practice exams at the end of each semester on different subjects to help us gauge our knowledge depth.” Jack is employed at Renown Regional Hospital as an RN in the med-surg unit.
Kristina Deming poses for a photograph while working her new job at Renown Health.
Kristina Deming, also a 2024 graduate of TMCC’s ADN Program, is currently employed as a registered nurse (RN) at Renown Health on the telemetry unit, saying, “The nursing faculty at TMCC do so much more than teach; they support your personal and professional growth and give you the room to explore the nursing profession. The last semester of the program focuses on ensuring each student is ready to pass the NCLEX. TMCC’s program is well organized and efficient, preparing students to hit the ground running when they enter the workforce.” Deming is enrolled in TMCC’s RN to BSN program, too.
In addition to academic success, graduates of the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program are sought highly in the job market. With over 90% of graduates securing employment at graduation, TMCC’s nursing program in Nevada produces highly competent, job-ready nursing professionals. Graduates find positions in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, and many quickly advance to leadership roles or pursue further education in advanced nursing degrees.
“Our strong partnership with local healthcare providers and the real-world experience our students gain during their clinical rotations play a significant role in their job readiness,” said Covert. “Employers know that TMCC graduates are well-prepared and capable of delivering high-quality patient care from day one.”
“I’ve heard from healthcare professionals in the region that TMCC produces the most prepared new-grad nurses,” explained alumna Sarah Jack. “TMCC’s nursing program is challenging and will push you to the limits to prepare you to become the best new grad nurse you can be.”
TMCC’s nursing program is a competitive entry program that admits two cohorts annually. The Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) accredits the ADN program. The program also has an RN to BSN program currently a candidate for accreditation.
Natural History Museum Debuts Library Public Displays
Over 10,000 specimens in 15 collections reside in the TMCC Natural History Museum; however, most students and employees will likely never see them—because they are in closely monitored spaces in the Red Mountain Building. Previously, those who did engage with the museum’s collections often enrolled in a science class related to undergraduate research.
With a festive unveiling ceremony earlier this month, the second floor of the Elizabeth Sturm Library is now equipped with two public display cases to show off a variety of precious specimens, says Dr. Megan Lahti, Biology Professor.
Employees inspect one of the extensive, fascinating TMCC Natural History Museum display cases during its premiere in the library.
“We have two cases: one is going to be an esthetic display profiling the Dandini Gardens,” Lahti detailed during the event’s opening remarks. “We encourage you to engage, loan a book and a pair of binoculars, go up there, and see what species you can find.”
“Then we have more of a scientific display case, which details who we are and what we do. We profile specimens representing our 15 different collections,” Lahti continued. “We want students or the public to come by and want to learn a little bit more about natural history and biology and get curious and engaged.”
“As a natural history museum, our mission is to be research-grade so that we operate at the same level and capacity as the Smithsonian or Los Angeles County Museum,” said Lahti. “We set that bar high, bringing high quality and professionalism to our campus, classrooms, and students who interact with the museum.”
Second-year student Jackson Rockwell has been working with Lahti and the Natural History Museum for about eight months and was present to unveil one of the library display cases. “Student submissions are about 80% of what makes up the Natural History Museum,” he explains.
“In our Bio 191L class, students go out on field lab expeditions to get experience in the real world,” Rockwell continued. “They would collect things, take them back to the museum, catalog, and practice identifying them. And then, instead of throwing the specimens away, Dr. Lahti keeps all of them and puts them in the museum.”
Annual Career Champions Gathering Honors Faculty and Staff
On the verge of a new semester, we celebrate the employees who propel TMCC students to achieve their highest career potential. Through student nominations, we recognize an extraordinary group, Career Champions, whose passion for instruction shines brilliantly in their work. It reflects our purpose as a college and gives you a voice to show appreciation for faculty and staff who’ve positively affected your higher education experience.
Unique situations can appear throughout the term, but there’s an infallible willingness to find a productive solution. For instance, a professor sitting down with you until you’ve reached clarity on a subject because you know the terms “after hours” don’t apply to them. Perhaps challenges arise in your private life, and they extend you flexibility for your assignments with empathetic consideration. Maybe they offered grace and provided one last chance to save yourself from failing a course – a commitment to lifelong learning gifts you academic experts who support your goals. The relationship between educator and pupil is a bond that could last you well beyond graduation. Our community exceeds its responsibilities, investing its time so you may chase the calling you aspire to.
“Sometimes that means putting a student in contact with an employer or offering them an encouraging word when they need to hear it the most. Sometimes, it’s making a challenging academic subject fun and understandable for the first time,” said Sidney Sullivan, Career Hub Program Director and Recognition and Activities Committee member.
These patient mentors and advocates influence and inspire, and your nominations are a gesture of gratitude for these employees, assuring the significance of what they strive for in their roles. Universities can’t match our environment because of the sincere interactions in and outside the classroom, where vigilance creates trust, and one-on-one is a crowning philosophy. Remember the moment genuine interest began to flourish in your studies? Help never vanishes; it remains an email, phone call, or text away. You’re in safe hands. A fresh start is dawning, and you’ll have the opportunity to meet someone who could epically brighten your future.
“My grandmother recently passed away in the middle of class with [Chemistry] Professor Olga [Katkova]. I rejoined and talked to her about being excused for the rest of the lab. She was very thoughtful, and later that day, I got a message from her sharing her condolences to my family. She pushes for her students to be successful. She understands unexpected, tragic incidents or job obligations. I admire how hard she works. She’s made me realize I can graduate,” said an anonymous student’s warm testimonial.
“Dr. [Amy Cavanaugh] has been a life-changing professor. She has the expertise to do what she does and be forthcoming. Dr. C taught me BIOL 190 during COVID-19, and her class was why I ultimately decided to pursue medicine. Not only is she an exceptional professor, she’s an excellent mentor. Dr. C was there from the beginning of my disability, encouraging me to keep pushing. There were times that I felt undernourished in many areas of my life, and even when I was on the verge of failing, I managed to pick myself back up and make it through. Dr. C is an example of a Career Champion, an outstanding professor, a strong-minded woman, a nurturing mother, and one who saved my education,” another heartfelt remark from a student explained.
“Mr. [Jaime] Sandoval is an amazing instructor. He runs a very fun, interactive, and informational course. I am walking away with loads of understanding I didn’t previously have. He is compassionate, attentive, and motivating. Jamie is everything you could want. He makes you feel heard and included and will leave you feeling good about yourself and your life,” a satisfied student recalled.
Career Champion recipients from multiple departments smile together for a group photo during the video conference ceremony.
Congratulations to the employees recognized in August for the Spring 2024 semester:
● Jocelyn Cabrera - Recruitment and Access Center
● Roger Putnam - Geology
● Sameer Bhattarai - Environmental Science
● Meeghan Gray - Biology
● Megan Lahti - Biology
● Jon Reddick-Lau - Biology
● Heidi Julius - Nursing
● Julie McMahon - Veterinary Nursing
● Sandy Munns - Emergency Management
● Dara Darbyshire - Radiologic Technology
● Kyle Smith - Diesel
● Kreg Mebust - Architecture
● Vanina Coudriet - Hospitality and Tourism Management
● Jennifer Griffin - Social Work
● Kofi Poku - Business
● Joe Sanpietro - English
● Jennifer Davis - Dance
● Erin Shearin - Art
For more information, please visit the Maxine S. Jacobs Nursing Program, TMCC Natural History Museum, and Recognition and Activities Committee websites.