NEWS RELEASE
BAY MILLS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
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BRIMLEY— In an effort to address the needs of local healthcare facilities, Bay Mills Community College has partnered with MyMichigan Medical Center Sault, Lake Superior State University and Sault Area High School and Career Center, establishing a program that aims to bridge the gap between education and employment, providing various pathways for individuals at different stages of their healthcare journey.
On Sept. 17, officials gathered to sign and officially launch the Healthcare Pathways Consortium. Representatives signing included Duane Bedell, president of BMCC, Kevin Kalchik, president of MyMichigan Medical Center Sault; Dr. David Travis, president of LSSU; Jeanine Sherman, principal of SAHCC.
The Healthcare Pathways Consortium is an innovative initiative program designed to meet the needs of our rural healthcare community. The goal is to streamline the educational pathway ensuring a seamless progression for students as they make their way into the healthcare workforce.
“It was amazing to see how a conversation that took place 16 months ago developed into an excellent partnership that will help build the healthcare workforce,” said Bedell. “What started as a brief discussion to learn how we can work together to develop the healthcare workforce, all of the leaders in the room stepped aside to allow the experts to do what they do best, cultivating a robust program that all partners support. Team members from all organizations worked feverishly to build this critical pathway while creating opportunities for those who are passionate about health care. I am looking forward to seeing how we can continue this work together.”
Key features of the program include collaborating with educational institutions to offer a wide range of programs, guaranteeing accessibility for individuals with diverse levels of prior education and experience. Students will learn practical skills enhancement through first-hand training opportunities such as internships, clinicals, apprenticeships, and simulation exercises.
“After graduation, the program's hope is that students will stay or return to the area to care for members of their own communities,” said Carrie Perez, director of nursing at BMCC. This collaboration will ultimately provide individualized career guidance and mentorship to aid participants in effectively navigating their journey in rural healthcare.
“This Healthcare Pathways Consortium is more than just an agreement—it's a commitment to the future of our community. By aligning educational resources across institutions, we’re providing students with a direct line to fulfilling and impactful careers in healthcare," said Dr. Kathy Berchem, dean of the College of Health and Emergency Responders at LSSU. "It’s a win-win for students, educators, and the healthcare sector, and I’m thrilled to see the positive changes this will bring to the region.” For any questions or interest in discussing opportunities with the Healthcare Pathways Consortium, please contact [email protected].
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