PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

May 9, 2008

Contact:        Mark Bergman

                202-225-5206 (office)

Congressman Paul Hodes visits Franklin Pierce University

Presents $146,000 Federal Grant for Nursing Program

Keene, NH--- Congressman Paul Hodes today visited Franklin Pierce University and he met with President George J. Hagerty, toured the campus, and presented the University with the $146,000 federal grant Congressman Hodes secured for their nursing program.

Congressman Hodes secured a $146,000 grant for Franklin Pierce University’s Nurse Education and Training Initiative in the fiscal year 2008 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. 

Recent government studies indicate that the shortage of qualified nurses in New Hampshire will grow from 17% in 2005 to a projected 36% in 2015.  This shortfall may be compounded by the inability of associate level nurses to obtain more advanced degrees in our state.  This program will help alleviate the critical shortage of skilled nurses in New Hampshire by providing increased access to higher education in the field.

“I am honored to be here today to present the University with a grant for $146,000 for their Nurse Education and Training Program.  I am proud to have worked with Dr. Hagerty and other faculty at the University last year to secure this important funding,” Congressman Paul Hodes said.

“By developing better in-state nursing programs, New Hampshire families can expect better care for their children and their loved ones,” Congressman Hodes added.

“This grant will provide practicing nurses with the additional education required to meet the challenges of tomorrow’s health care system,” said George J. Hagerty, President of Franklin Pierce University.  “A strong nursing program is good for the economic and social health of the Granite State, and we are exceedingly grateful to Congressman Hodes for his leadership in securing this grant.  It will make a difference in many lives.”

Franklin Pierce College is developing an initiative to provide advanced training for qualified nurses through the Nursing Program in the College of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Federal support for this initiative will help the program succeed in its mission of addressing the increased demand for skilled nursing care in New Hampshire.