Bethune-Cookman University L. Gale Lemerand School of Nursing Achieves Full Accreditation

DAYTONA BEACH, FL –Bethune-Cookman University’s School of Nursing is in good standing with the Florida Board of Nursing. On January 21, 2020, the Florida Board of Nursing, the State’s regulatory agency, notified the leadership of the L. Gale Lemerand School of Nursing that the nursing program had achieved “a graduate pass rate that meets or exceeds the required passage rate for calendar year 2019.” As of February 21, 2020 the School of Nursing was removed from probationary status and was awarded approval status.

“I am proud of the effective leadership and work of Dr. Tucker, her faculty and staff. This accomplishment is one that will enable us to more efficiently serve our students and Florida’s regional healthcare community,” said B-CU President Dr. E. LaBrent Chrite. B-CU’s nursing program was originally approved by the Florida Board of Nursing in 1976. The program will retain its approval status without periodic review unless or until there is a violation of the Florida Board of Nursing’s policies/regulations. “Our School of Nursing represents a vital component of B-CU’s academic portfolio and this is a significant and welcomed accomplishment,” Chrite added.

Dr. Tucker joined the university as the Dean of the School of Nursing in July 2014. Her goal has been to develop a highly ranked nursing program that graduates professionals equipped for the healthcare industry. “The nursing curriculum has undergone tremendous revision to meet university and School of Nursing learning outcomes. The curriculum will continue to be regularly assessed for rigor and evidence-based outcomes, comparable with best practices in nursing education,” said Dean Tucker. “We want our future nurses to be the best in their field.”

“Under Dr. Tucker’s leadership, faculty and staff have made the necessary changes designed to ensure that the nursing program prepares nurses who will provide first-rate care to our healthcare community. I applaud her leadership, the dedication of the faculty and staff and the success of our students," University Provost Dr. Helena Mariella- Walrond concluded.

The School of Nursing has approximately 160 full time pre-nursing and nursing students. The program has the capacity to admit over 60 students for fall 2020. 

About B-CU

Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) today sustains her legacy of faith, scholarship, and service through its relationship with the United Methodist Church and its commitment to academic excellence and civic engagement. B-CU offers 36 undergraduate and 8 graduate degree on its main campus and online college. Located in Daytona Beach, B-CU is one of three private, historically black colleges in the state of Florida. The institution boasts a diverse and international faculty and student body of nearly 3,000. For more information, visit www.cookman.edu