This holistic approach to nurse education continues to break boundaries, says this CNE. In 2026, CNOs are looking even closer at the nursing education pipeline to see the possibilities for improving pathways into the industry. While many are looking to partner with academic institutions to improve already existing nursing schools and programs, WVU Medicine has taken a different approach. The health system created a hospital-based diploma program, the Center for Nursing Education, that is helping break down barriers to education and providing a stronger pipeline for nurses entering the industry. In a follow up conversation from 2025, HealthLeaders sat down with Melanie Heuston, CNE at WVU Medicine and HealthLeaders Exchange member, live from the CNO Exchange in West Palm, Florida, to discuss the progress made in WVU Medicine’s hospital-based diploma program and what the future of the program looks like going forward. Tune in to hear her insights. The HealthLeaders Exchange is an executive community for sharing ideas, solutions, and insights. Please join the community at our LinkedIn page. To inquire about attending a HealthLeaders Exchange event, email us at exchange@healthleadersmedia.com. Pillar: CNOImage: Tags: careereducationmedical educationnursesnursingSecondary Pillars: HLM ExchangeCNOArticle Type: AnalysisPublished Date: Friday, May 8, 2026Hide sidebars: Render small main image:
