Quest Nursing Education Center seeks provisional approval amid accreditation challenges

The Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians convened on June 26, 2025, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on the provisional approval status of the Quest Nursing Education Center's nursing program.

The meeting began with a request for updates regarding the provisional approval and the admission of students to the Quest Nursing Education Center. Tara Davila, a representative from the board, confirmed that there was no new information to report. Board member Natalie Nieves made a motion to proceed with the discussions, which was seconded by Gloria Nielsen.

Dr. Stacey Alitu, the program director at Quest Nursing Education Center, expressed her concerns regarding the provisional approval process. She stated that the center had followed all protocols and submitted their application for continued approval on time. Dr. Alitu voiced her frustration over the lack of communication from the board, particularly regarding a site visit conducted by Davila in January. She claimed that no specific violations were communicated to her during or after the visit, which left her confused about the basis for the provisional approval recommendation.

Dr. Alitu detailed her efforts to address issues raised in a subsequent report, which she received only after repeated requests. She described the challenges faced in correcting curriculum changes within a tight timeframe, which she argued were unreasonable. Despite her efforts, she claimed that the board did not provide adequate feedback on her submissions, leading to further complications for the nursing program.

The discussion highlighted the impact of the board's decisions on the program's operations, including a significant reduction in student enrollment and the potential risk to the program's accreditation. Dr. Alitu emphasized the detrimental effects of the ongoing situation on both the institution and its students.

As the meeting progressed, board members engaged in discussions regarding the implications of the provisional approval and the need for clearer communication and support for educational institutions. The board acknowledged the importance of maintaining high standards while also ensuring that programs have the opportunity to rectify any issues identified.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the challenges faced by the Quest Nursing Education Center and the need for improved collaboration between the board and educational institutions. The board's decision on the provisional approval status remains pending, with further discussions anticipated in future meetings.