Nearly 200 new nurses are entering the workforce in western South Dakota this year, helping address a growing need for healthcare professionals.
The West River Health Science Center in Rapid City graduated 122 registered nurses in its first full year, with more than half committing to work for Monument Health.
Across the region, a total of 195 new nurses are graduating from programs at South Dakota State University, Dakota Wesleyan, and Western Dakota Tech. At least 87 have already signed on with Monument Health.
Health officials say partnerships between schools and providers, along with scholarship programs, are helping build a steady pipeline of workers.
That effort is also reaching high schools, where dozens of students are earning certified nursing assistant credentials and preparing for careers in healthcare.
Officials say the growing number of graduates shows the region is making progress in meeting its long-term nursing shortage.
