Vermont Business Magazine Vermont State University (VTSU) celebrated the graduation of 163 Practical Nursing students with commencement ceremonies held at its Randolph campus on June 19. Collectively, these graduates represented a dozen learning sites across the state, thanks to Vermont State’s distributed, community-based approach to nursing education.
Designed as a one-year pathway into the nursing profession, the Practical Nursing (PN) Certificate program combines classroom instruction, simulation-based learning, and direct clinical experience to prepare students to become Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs). Earlier this year, Vermont State shared its outstanding NCLEX licensure exam pass rates, for which the PN program prepares its graduates.
The program also serves as the first step in the university’s stackable nursing credential model, enabling graduates to seamlessly continue their education while working in the field. From this year’s class, 153 students will continue directly into VTSU’s Associate Degree in Nursing (ASN) program, underscoring both student persistence and the program’s role in building Vermont’s long-term nursing workforce.
VTSU President David Bergh shared, “In just one year, these graduates have gained the skills and experience needed to step into essential roles in healthcare. At a time when Vermont faces a critical nursing shortage, their contributions will make a meaningful difference in communities across our state. ”
The urgency of that need is significant. Vermont, like many states, continues to face workforce shortages across healthcare settings, from hospitals and outpatient clinics to long-term care facilities. Each year, more than 80 percent of all Vermont State’s nursing program graduates choose to remain in Vermont, helping to sustain and strengthen local care systems.
Graduates leave prepared to enter a range of healthcare settings, including long-term care, primary care, outpatient clinics, and physician offices, working under the supervision of registered nurses, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.
“Vermont State University has a long and proud history of nursing education,” said Nolan Atkins, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at VTSU. “Our stackable model is designed to meet students where they are, offering a flexible pathway that allows them to build credentials over time while continuing to work and support their families.”
Many students in the PN certificate program balance full-time employment, family responsibilities, and caregiving roles while completing their studies. The program’s flexible, community-based model allows them to train close to home and remain connected to the regions they will go on to serve.
“My experience at VTSU has been both challenging and rewarding, strengthening my passion for nursing and patient care,” said Jessica Riley, a Practical Nursing student on the Lyndon campus. “To me, being part of the nursing profession means advocating for patients, supporting them during vulnerable moments, and providing compassionate care when they need it most. I am excited to begin my nursing career and make a positive meaningful impact in healthcare.”
The university partners closely with healthcare providers across the state, including Central Vermont Medical Center, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, Rutland Regional Medical Center, Southwestern Vermont Health Care, and the University of Vermont Medical Center. Many of these partners offer tuition assistance and employment opportunities, further strengthening the connection between education and workforce demand.
Across its programs, Vermont State University graduates more than 440 nurses annually, making it the largest provider of nursing education in Vermont. Through continued program expansion and strong partnerships, the university is working to increase access to nursing education and address critical healthcare needs across the state and beyond.
To learn more about Vermont State University’s Practical Nursing Certificate Program, visit:
https://vermontstate.edu/academic-programs/practical-nursing-certificate/
About Vermont State University
Vermont State University, Vermont’s statewide public university, provides transformative, future‑ready education that empowers learners to shape their own course – professionally, personally, and within their communities. Rooted in Vermont values, Vermont State delivers hands‑on, career‑connected learning through in‑person, fully online, and blended programs built for real lives and real goals. Built in Vermont. Made for Everywhere. Learn more at VermontState.edu.
6.24.2026. Randolph, VT — Vermont State University
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