Historic Graduation of RN Apprenticeship Cohort at Rio Grande Valley College
PHARR, Texas – Rio Grande Valley College (RGV College) proudly commemorated a pivotal moment in nursing education and workforce advancement with the graduation of its inaugural Registered Nurse (RN) Apprenticeship cohort. The celebratory ceremony was held at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance, marking a significant step towards addressing the healthcare needs of the community.
A Groundbreaking Program
The RN Apprenticeship program, which saw twelve dedicated students completing their studies, merges extensive academic training with paid, hands-on clinical experiences at DHR Health. This innovative model has received endorsement from the Texas Board of Nursing, reflecting its commitment to combat the ongoing nursing shortage in the region while providing students with valuable real-world training.
Dr. Annabelle Palomo, the president and CEO of Rio Grande Valley College, articulated the importance of this moment by stating, “Today, we don’t just celebrate graduates — we honor a movement: where perseverance meets purpose, where community meets opportunity, and where the future of healthcare is being built right here, by us, for us.”
Support from the Community
The graduation ceremony featured valuable insights from esteemed guest speakers, including City of Pharr Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez, DHR Health Chairman of the Board Dr. Carlos Cardenas, and DHR Health CEO Dr. Manish Singh. All speakers reiterated the urgent demand for registered nurses and the continued need for workforce training programs like the RN Apprenticeship.
Dr. Singh emphasized DHR Health’s commitment to nurturing the healthcare workforce through education, stating, “This graduating class reflects DHR Health’s dedication to strengthening the healthcare workforce through education and hands-on training that meets the staffing needs of our region.”
A Partnership for Success
As the program’s official employer partner, DHR Health played a crucial role in shaping the apprenticeship’s development and implementation, providing mentorship and invaluable training opportunities. Nori Zapata, DHR Health’s Senior Vice President of Education and Career Development, celebrated the graduates’ achievements: “The dedication, compassion, and resilience of these students have brought them to this proud moment. Congratulations to each of you — your healing hands and caring hearts will change lives.”
Celebrating the Graduates
During the ceremony, graduates received their white coats from City of Edinburg Mayor Ramiro Garza, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere as they posed for photos and enjoyed refreshments with loved ones. The first graduating class of the RN Apprenticeship Program includes:
- Brenda Cantu
- Ebony Fields
- Javier Larraga
- Jose Martinez
- Arturo Moreno
- Kimberly Puente
- Luzellyn Rodriguez
- Radames Rodriguez
- Anita Saenz
- Wendy Schell
- Ryan Serna
- Enrique Servin
Zapata added, “This event not only celebrated their achievements; it marked the beginning of their careers as skilled, compassionate nurses ready to make a difference in the lives of others.”
The Future of Nursing in RGV
The RN Apprenticeship program signifies a transformative approach to nursing education, equipping graduates with the skills needed to tackle the healthcare challenges faced by the Rio Grande Valley. As the demand for healthcare professionals continues to grow, initiatives like this one provide critical support and pathways for aspiring nurses.
For more information about the Nursing Apprenticeship Program, please visit Texas Board of Nursing for resources on nursing licensure and opportunities nationwide.
This comprehensive overview captures the essence of a vital program shaping the future of healthcare in Texas. Through initiatives like the RN Apprenticeship program at RGV College, communities can expect a brighter future in healthcare, driven by trained and compassionate nursing professionals.
