Wilson Medical Center, a Duke LifePoint hospital, and Barton College have announced a strategic partnership to invest in the future of healthcare in Wilson County through the launch of the Barton College Wilson Medical Fellows Program and a $1 million commitment to healthcare education.

The initiative is focused on addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals while enhancing educational opportunities for students pursuing careers in the field. As part of the partnership, Wilson Medical Center will establish the Barton College Wilson Medical Fellows Program, offering hands-on clinical training, mentorship, and career development opportunities for nursing students. Additionally, Wilson Medical Center will donate $1 million to Barton College’s School of Health Sciences to help expand healthcare education programs and resources.

“Wilson Medical Center and Barton College share a commitment to building a strong, sustainable healthcare workforce,” said Lindy White, interim CEO of Wilson Medical Center. “By working together, we are strengthening healthcare in Wilson by supporting the next generation of professionals who will serve our families, friends, and neighbors. This program provides students with both financial support and real-world experience, ensuring they have the training and career pathways necessary to meet the healthcare needs of our community.”

The Barton College Wilson Medical Fellows Program will launch in the 2025-2026 academic year with an initial cohort of three nursing students, expanding to up to eight fellows in the following year. Selected students will receive tuition support for their junior and senior years, and upon successfully passing the NCLEX exam, employment will be guaranteed at Wilson Medical Center for a minimum of two years. This initiative not only provides aspiring nurses with financial relief but also ensures continued access to qualified, well-trained professionals ready to serve Wilson County and beyond.

“The partnership between Barton College and Wilson Medical Center is an investment in both education and healthcare,” said Barton College President, Dr. Douglas N. Searcy. “Our students will benefit from clinical training and mentorship, while Wilson Medical Center gains dedicated professionals who are well-prepared to serve. Barton graduates are high-quality nurses that are prepared to make an impact on their first day, here in Wilson. I am excited that this partnership moves Barton forward in the continuing development of our School of Health Sciences to support and elevate exceptional local healthcare."

The $1 million investment in Barton College’s School of Health Sciences will support the construction of a state-of-the-art facility featuring advanced hospital simulation, interdisciplinary integration, and a rural healthcare focus to produce top-tier healthcare professionals. This facility will strengthen existing programs, support faculty development, and expand healthcare education initiatives to meet the evolving needs of the Wilson community, including launching a new family nurse practitioner program. This commitment reinforces the importance of investing in local institutions to build a stronger, healthier region.

“The Barton College Wilson Medical Fellows Program is a model for how community partners and leaders can work together to build a stronger, healthier future,” said Wilson County Commissioner Chairman Rob Boyette. “This partnership benefits students and strengthens the healthcare workforce.  It is always a good thing when we can invest in Wilson County students.”

The first cohort of Barton College Wilson Medical Fellows will be selected in the 2025-2026 academic year, with applications opening in early 2025. Interested students can find additional information on the college’s website or attend upcoming information sessions.