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Saint Mary highlights enrollment growth, new hybrid programs and $2 million simulation project
Summary
Saint Mary told Leavenworth commissioners it enrolled about 300 new students this fall (total ~1,598), reports high professional‑exam pass rates, is expanding hybrid nursing and counseling tracks to reach rural students and is fundraising for a $2 million interdisciplinary clinical simulation center.
Saint Mary representatives briefed the Leavenworth City Commission on program growth, workforce‑training ties and capital needs, saying the college’s latest incoming class of about 300 students brings total enrollment to roughly 1,598. The presenter said on‑campus housing is full, the college is moving an accelerated nursing program to a hybrid model to serve rural students, and pass rates remain strong — “nursing pass rate is 97 percent” and “doctor of physical therapy pass rate is 100 percent,” the presenter said.
Why it matters: Saint Mary’s students contribute to downtown spending and local hospitality demand, and the school’s clinical programs train health professionals the region needs. The university also described campus experiments that double as workforce pipelines, including a student‑run coffee shop and criminal‑justice simulations run with the Leavenworth Police Department.
Details and context: The presenter said the college will pilot hybrid, synchronous remote instruction for accelerated one‑year nursing coursework, keeping clinical check‑offs in person. Leaders also told the commission they are exploring converting a master’s in school counseling into an educational specialist or doctorate to meet accreditation requirements and improve pay prospects for graduates who become K‑12 counselors.
Capital projects and events: The university described a planned interdisciplinary simulation facility for nursing, physical therapy and occupational therapy, a roughly $2,000,000 project that officials said is about a quarter funded. The presenter invited commissioners to campus events this month and noted the university’s contribution to local tourism and hotel stays.
What commissioners asked and next steps: Commissioners thanked the presenters and emphasized the value of the town–gown relationship. No formal action was required; the presentation functioned as information for future partnership and potential local funding conversations.
