HARRISBURG – Southeastern Illinois College is proud to be part of the Illinois Community College Board’s (ICCB) PATH initiative, or Pipeline for the Advancement of the Healthcare Workforce, which has expanded training and support for healthcare students across Illinois.
In FY 2023, Illinois community colleges enrolled more than 27,600 students in PATH programs, with 45% being first-generation college students. This initiative is building a diverse, skilled workforce to address the healthcare shortage and support students’ pursuit of high-demand health careers.
SIC was awarded $184,807 in FY 2024, strengthening its programs by providing essential equipment, student resources, and personnel support for aspiring healthcare professionals. This funding has empowered SIC to enhance hands-on training through new equipment, including iPads for nursing students and specialized healthcare simulators, as well as the creation of a “Zen Den,” a new nursing lounge designed for student relaxation and focus. Additionally, PATH funds support a new employee role of Retention Specialist and Success Coach, and provide crucial resources like meal and fuel cards to reduce financial barriers for students.
Preparing SIC Students for In-Demand Careers
PATH funds have enabled SIC to enroll 140 students directly benefiting from this grant across multiple healthcare programs. This has resulted in high rates of program completion, with over 100 SIC graduates obtaining licensure for employment in Illinois healthcare facilities in this year alone.
Partnering with Community Employers
Through PATH, SIC collaborates with key healthcare providers—including, but not limited to Harrisburg Medical Center, Ferrell Hospital, WLC Management Firm, Egyptian Health Department, Deaconess, Southern Illinois Healthcare, and Beck’s Drugs—and is one of many Illinois community colleges engaging a total of 1,032 healthcare employers statewide. ICCB data show that this grant has already helped community colleges launch 27 new healthcare programs and expand 74 programs to meet growing industry demands.
A Success Story: Braxton Raben
The PATH grant also supports inspiring student journeys, such as Braxton Raben’s. A father of three from Ridgway, Braxton had been a stay-at-home parent before starting work in phlebotomy at Ferrell Hospital. Motivated to pursue a career in nursing, he enrolled in SIC’s Practical Nursing Program.
Braxton shares, “The education I received at SIC has prepared me to face the challenges of healthcare. The compassionate, knowledgeable professors truly care about our success and go the extra mile. My time at SIC will not only benefit my career but will continue to aid me in everything I do.”
SIC President Dr. Karen Weiss praised the PATH grant’s impact, stating, “This funding has provided a remarkable boost to our programs, equipping students with essential tools and support to succeed in healthcare careers. We’re proud to be part of a solution addressing the healthcare workforce shortage in our community.”
The PATH grant is a powerful example of how Illinois community colleges, including SIC, are committed to preparing students for successful healthcare careers and meeting the state’s healthcare needs.
Applications are open for SIC’s Fall 2025 nursing programs, and now is the time to complete prerequisite classes. The deadline for application is March 31. For more information, including required testing and advisement dates, visit sic.edu/nursing or email nursing@sic.edu.