Porter and Chester Institute announces voluntary closure of Bridgeport nursing program

The Board of Examiners for Nursing convened on July 16, 2025, to discuss the voluntary closure of the Bridgeport campus of Porter and Chester Institute (PCI). The meeting focused on the implications of this closure for the 80 remaining students enrolled in the day and evening nursing programs, with a projected teach-out plan concluding in May 2026.

Representatives from PCI, including Sherry Greif and attorney Eric Del Pozzo, presented the closure notification and outlined their strategy to ensure students complete their education. The plan emphasizes a "teach in place" approach, allowing current students to finish their programs at the Bridgeport campus. However, the board expressed concerns regarding the quality of education and oversight at the Bridgeport location, referencing findings from a recent Department of Public Health (DPH) site visit that indicated issues with faculty performance and student outcomes.

Board members voiced a preference for relocating students to the Hamden and Waterbury campuses, which, despite their own challenges, may offer better oversight and educational quality. The discussion highlighted the need for a detailed plan from PCI, which is expected to be submitted by July 25, 2025. This plan will address how PCI intends to support students during the transition and ensure their success in passing the NCLEX exam.

The board also considered the necessity of a scheduled hearing on July 29 regarding the closure, weighing whether the proposed plan would negate the need for further discussion. Members expressed a consensus that the students' best interests should guide their decisions, with many advocating for a move to campuses with stronger performance metrics.

In conclusion, the board is awaiting a formal plan from PCI while emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational standards and student success during this transition period. The next steps will involve reviewing the submitted plan and determining the best course of action for the affected students.