Diversity in the healthcare workforce is crucial for ensuring that it accurately reflects the populations it serves. One area where diversity has been lacking is in the representation of Native American and Indigenous nursing students. The College of Nursing at Washington State University (WSU) recognized this issue and embarked on a journey to address it through a groundbreaking initiative, the College of Nursing Pathways project. Initially funded by the Empire Health Foundation (EHF), this project aims to provide essential resources and support to Native American students pursuing nursing degrees. Even though the grant has ended, the College of Nursing remains dedicated to continuing and expanding this vital program.
The Importance of Native Representation in Nursing
The underrepresentation of Native American and Indigenous individuals in the nursing profession has long been a concern. Healthcare disparities affecting Indigenous communities are exacerbated by the lack of culturally competent care providers who understand and can address the unique healthcare needs of Native populations. Washington State, home to numerous tribal nations, recognized the need to bridge this gap and decided to take proactive measures.
Washington State University, as a land grant institution, has made it a strategic goal to support and admit increasing numbers of Native American and Indigenous students across all levels of nursing education. This commitment extends from pre-licensure programming to advanced graduate degrees, including Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs. The College of Nursing acknowledges that it has a responsibility to lead the way in addressing the nursing workforce’s lack of Indigenous representation.
The College of Nursing Pathways project was designed as an evidence-based intervention to engage Native American nursing students across various academic programs and WSU campuses. The initiative’s primary goal is to equip students with the skills, self-efficacy, academic confidence, enhanced critical and clinical thinking, and improved interpersonal communication necessary to succeed in nursing education and practice.
The project’s foundation lies in an understanding that, while academic excellence is vital, it is equally important to create an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters the success of Native American students. To achieve this, the project is led by a dedicated team of staff advisors and faculty mentors who provide guidance, support, and mentorship to participating students.
Fall Program: Bringing Dreams to Campus
One of the standout initiatives within the College of Nursing Pathways project was the Fall 2023 program, which brought Native American pre-nursing students from WSU’s Pullman campus to it’s Spokane campus. This immersive experience was designed to expose students to the college’s resources, the campus environment, and the vibrant nursing community.
During the program, students engaged in simulation activities, allowing them to gain hands-on experience and a taste of what their future nursing education would entail. A campus tour provided a firsthand look at the facilities and resources available to nursing students. Moreover, students had the invaluable opportunity to interact with current advisors, peers, and coaches, fostering a sense of community and belonging.
The program concluded with a shared lunch, providing a forum for students to ask questions, share their aspirations, and connect with others who shared their dreams of becoming nurses. This experience not only offered a glimpse into the world of nursing but also instilled a sense of empowerment and inspiration in the participants.
While the initial Empire Health Foundation grant laid the foundation for the College of Nursing Pathways project, the college’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in nursing education and practice remains unwavering. This project serves as a testament to the college’s dedication to fostering the success of Native American and Indigenous nursing students and, by extension, improving healthcare outcomes for Indigenous communities.
