February 19, 2025
~Funds will help recruit and train vitally needed nurses and other healthcare professionals~
Tallahassee State College (TSC) is proud to announce a generous $500,000 gift from HCA Florida Healthcare, supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. The announcement was made at the TSC District Board of Trustees meeting on Feb.18, where representatives from HCA Florida Healthcare presented a ceremonial check.
“HCA Florida Healthcare is deeply committed to fostering a strong pipeline of skilled professionals to meet the growing need for healthcare services,” said Josh Woodruff, chief nursing officer, HCA Florida Capital Hospital, one of 48 hospitals in the HCA Florida Healthcare network. “Our partnership with Tallahassee State College ensures students have access to advanced learning tools and resources, ultimately enhancing the quality of care in our community.”
In recognition of this transformative gift, the Simulation Lab at the Ghazvini Center for Healthcare Education will be named the HCA Florida Healthcare Simulation Lab. This state-of-the-art facility plays a pivotal role in training students in healthcare professions, providing hands-on, real-world experience that prepares them for the demands of their future careers.
The funding from HCA Florida Healthcare leverages Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) funding, awarded by the Florida Legislature to expand nursing education capacity across the state. This collaborative effort between public colleges, private industry, and state funding enables TSC to meet the increased demand for healthcare professionals in Florida.
“This incredible gift from HCA Florida Healthcare underscores their dedication to education and workforce development,” said Heather Mitchell, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the TSC Foundation. “Together, with support from LINE funding and our legislative leaders, we’re creating opportunities that not only benefit our students but also strengthen the healthcare system in North Florida.”
The Ghazvini Center for Healthcare Education, located near Tallahassee’s medical corridor, is a hub for leading-edge healthcare training. The 85,000-square-foot facility offers students access to advanced technology and realistic healthcare simulations that mirror real-world scenarios. Home to TSC’s flagship programs in nursing, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, and more, the center fosters a hands-on learning environment where students gain the practical skills and experience needed to excel in their careers.
“This collaboration demonstrates the power of public-private partnerships in addressing critical workforce needs,” said Dr. Calandra Stringer, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost. “Thanks to HCA Florida Healthcare’s generous support and the opportunities created through LINE funding, TSC students will have access to cutting-edge simulation training that prepares them to excel in their professions.”
An unveiling event for the HCA Florida Healthcare Simulation Lab will be held at a later date, celebrating this milestone in healthcare education and workforce development.