BAY MINETTE, Ala. — Coastal Alabama Community College proudly announces that its Nursing Program has been designated as a National League for Nursing (NLN) Center of Excellence™ in the category of Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development. This prestigious recognition honors nursing education programs that demonstrate sustained excellence and innovation in preparing the next generation of nurses. Coastal Alabama Community College is one of only 20 programs across the nation to receive this designation for 2026.

The NLN Centers of Excellence™ program recognizes nursing schools and organizations that have achieved measurable, sustained excellence in key areas of nursing education. The designation reflects Coastal Alabama Community College’s unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and academically rigorous learning environment where students thrive and faculty are empowered to excel.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit of our nursing faculty, staff, students, and clinical partners,” said Dr. Tiffany Scarborough, Dean of Nursing and Allied Health at Coastal Alabama Community College. “Our mission has always been to prepare compassionate, highly skilled nurses who are ready to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our communities. Being recognized as an NLN Center of Excellence validates the intentional work our team has invested in creating exceptional learning experiences.”

The Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development designation recognizes institutions that successfully cultivate learning environments characterized by innovation, collaboration, evidence-based teaching practices, student engagement, and continuous professional growth for faculty and staff.

“This honor reflects our commitment to student success from admission through graduation,” said Dr. Tyler Sturdivant, Associate Dean of Nursing and Nursing Program Administrator at Coastal Alabama Community College. “We have intentionally built a culture that promotes academic excellence, resilience, mentorship, and professional development while preparing graduates to provide safe, high-quality patient care. We are honored to receive this national distinction.”

The recognition highlights several strengths of Coastal Alabama Community College’s Nursing Program, including:

• Student-centered teaching and learning strategies
• Innovative simulation education experiences provided through a Society for Simulation in Healthcare-accredited Simulation Laboratory
• Comprehensive academic support and student success initiatives
• Faculty excellence, mentorship, and ongoing professional development
• Strong partnerships with healthcare organizations throughout the region to offer superior clinical experiences
• Nursing apprenticeship opportunities, including the nation’s first registered Practical Nursing (PN) apprenticeship option
• A culture of continuous quality improvement and evidence-based education

The National League for Nursing is the premier organization for nurse faculty and leaders in nursing education, dedicated to promoting excellence in academia to build a strong and diverse nursing workforce. Institutions designated as NLN Centers of Excellence™ serve as national models for innovation, leadership, and excellence in nursing education. The NLN Center of Excellence™ designation reinforces Coastal Alabama Community College’s position as a leader in nursing education and reflects its ongoing commitment to addressing workforce needs by preparing highly qualified nurses to serve Alabama and beyond. As Coastal Alabama Community College celebrates this milestone, the College remains committed to advancing nursing education through innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering focus on student achievement and professional excellence.