SWOSU and Great Plains Regional Medical Center Partner to Launch Surgical Technology Program in Western Oklahoma

(Left to right): Carmen Nickel, GPRMC Associate Chief Nursing Officer; Rand Baker; Jeannine Baker; Corey Lovely, GPRMC Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Diana Lovell, SWOSU President; and Dr. Sharon Lawrence, Chair of the Department of Allied Health Sciences.

Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) and Great Plains Regional Medical Center (GPRMC) are pleased to announce an exciting new partnership aimed at advancing healthcare education in Western Oklahoma. This partnership, signed on September 16^th, 2024, by SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell and GPRMC CEO Corey Lively, marks the establishment of a new Surgical Technology program set to begin in Fall 2024.

The signing ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting event hosted by the Elk City Chamber of Commerce. This event highlighted a strong partnership between GPRMC and SWOSU, demonstrating a commitment to advancing healthcare education in Elk City and the broader western Oklahoma community. The center will serve as a vital resource for training future healthcare professionals, enhancing local educational opportunities, and supporting growth in the region's healthcare sector.

Under this agreement, SWOSU students interested in pursuing a career in surgical technology will have the opportunity to enroll in a comprehensive two-year program hosted at the GPRMC Education Center in Elk City, OK. The program will prepare students to become surgical technologists, equipping them with both foundational knowledge and practical, hands-on clinical experience. In addition to classroom instruction in the first year, students will gain invaluable real-world training in GPRMC's operating rooms during the second year of the program.

Program Overview:

• Program Start: Fall 2024 for pre-requisites; Fall 2025 for the first cohort.

  Location: GPRMC Education Center, 222 W. 3rd Street, Elk City, OK.

  Degree Earned: Associate's Degree in Applied Science.

  Program Contact: SWOSU Admissions & Recruitment, 580-774-3782, or https://www.swosu.edu/admissions

Great Plains Regional Medical Center CEO Corey Lively (left) and Southwestern Oklahoma State University President Dr. Diana Lovell signed an agreement aimed at advancing healthcare education in Western Oklahoma on September 16.

This partnership between SWOSU and GPRMC represents a significant step forward in addressing the growing need for skilled healthcare professionals in Western Oklahoma. By combining SWOSU's academic excellence with GPRMC's commitment to healthcare service, this program aims to produce a steady pipeline of qualified surgical technologists for the region.

"This partnership with SWOSU reflects our commitment to training the next generation of healthcare professionals. The Surgical Technology program will not only benefit our hospital but also strengthen the healthcare workforce in Western Oklahoma, ensuring that our community continues to receive top-tier medical care," stated Corey Lively, CEO of Great Plains Regional Medical Center. He also acknowledged the generous contribution of the late Dr. L.V. Baker from Elk City, whose family donated the building that houses the new GPRMC Education Center, honoring his legacy and commitment to healthcare in the region.

SWOSU President Dr. Diana Lovell said, "SWOSU is proud to collaborate with Great Plains Regional Medical Center to address critical workforce areas in healthcare. This new Surgical Technology program reflects our dedication to meeting workplace demands and providing flexibility in filling Oklahoma's medical needs. By training skilled surgical technologists, we aim to support the healthcare system in Western Oklahoma and ensure our communities receive the highest standard of care."

About Southwestern Oklahoma State University: Since 1901, Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) has proudly stood on the hilltop in Weatherford, Oklahoma. Offering over 100 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs across three locations in Weatherford, Sayre, and Yukon, SWOSU provides a diverse range of academic opportunities with high-quality education to its students. The university boasts a vibrant community of over 5,000 scholars and over 200 dedicated faculty and staff. With strong academic programs and a commitment to excellence, SWOSU continues to be a top choice for students seeking a quality education.

About Great Plains Regional Medical Center: Great Plains Regional Medical Center is dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services to the residents of Elk City and surrounding communities. Our mission is to deliver compassionate, high-quality care and to support the ongoing education and development of healthcare professionals through strategic partnerships and innovative programs.

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