Concerns over leadership stability and program effectiveness dominated the Texas Board of Nursing meeting on April 18, 2024, as board members scrutinized the ongoing challenges faced by Tarleton State University's nursing program. With five directors in a short span, questions arose about the reasons behind this turnover and the implications for the program's future.

Diane Stearns, the current provost, acknowledged the difficulties inherited from previous administrations, stating, "We were surprised at what we learned as soon as we got to campus." She emphasized the need for stable leadership and expressed gratitude for the board's guidance in navigating these challenges. Stearns assured the board that significant changes have been implemented, including a commitment to improving faculty resources and curriculum design.

A key point of discussion was the program's enrollment strategy. Stearns clarified that the LVN to RN track would remain, countering earlier miscommunications about its potential removal. The board expressed concern over the size of incoming cohorts, with 206 students admitted in 2023, and the implications for faculty resources. Stearns indicated plans to limit future admissions to ensure quality education, with a proposed total of 60 students for the upcoming year.

The board also reviewed the program's curriculum changes, which focus on enhancing course design rather than altering content. Stearns highlighted the introduction of mentorship programs and partnerships with external vendors to support student success in board exam preparation.

Despite these efforts, some board members suggested moving the program to conditional status until pass rates improve, reflecting a cautious approach to ensure the program's long-term viability. The board is expected to reassess the program's status in January 2025, following the results of the upcoming NCLEX exams.

As Tarleton State University navigates these challenges, the board's oversight will be crucial in determining the future of its nursing program and the quality of education provided to future nurses in Texas.