WILBURTON, Oklahoma – The Eastern Oklahoma State College nursing department has received continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, extending its accredited status until spring 2032. This achievement reflects the department's commitment to providing high-quality education for future healthcare professionals.

“This accreditation shows the commitment to quality education and excellence in nursing, the hard work of the faculty and staff, and the positive impact on student and program outcomes,” said Eastern Director of Nursing Gina Bullock. “This not only validates our efforts, but also strengthens our mission to prepare skilled and compassionate nurses for the future.”

This extension of accreditation comes as the latest in a series of positive developments for the Eastern nursing department over the past few years.

The Puterbaugh Foundation has been a supporter of Eastern Nursing for more than 30 years. Over approximately one decade alone, it has contributed more than $1 million to the program. In 2022, Eastern celebrated this overwhelming support by naming the nursing skills lab on the Wilburton campus in honor of Puterbaugh Foundation.

The Fuggitt Foundation has contributed $600,000 over the past two years. The generous support of these two organizations has helped Eastern Nursing launch its hybrid LPN-to-RN program. This program has helped double enrollment in the nursing department.

“I am grateful for our partners and the valuable opportunities these collaborations create to address workforce needs in Southeastern Oklahoma,” said Eastern President Dr. Janet Wansick. “Our nursing department exemplifies the vital role Eastern plays in this community, showcasing the significant impact that colleges like ours have on the state's workforce. I applaud our incredible nursing faculty and staff for their hard work and dedication to our students.”

Eastern remains committed to workforce development by continuing to prepare skilled nurses who will play vital roles in meeting the healthcare needs of the region and beyond. The support from the Puterbaugh and Fuggitt Foundations strengthens the college’s ability to equip students with the necessary tools and training for successful careers in nursing.

The Associate degree nursing program at Eastern Oklahoma State College at the Wilburton, McAlester and Eastern Oklahoma State College at Southeastern Oklahoma State University McCurtain County campus (Idabel) located in Wilburton, McAlester and Idabel is accredited by the: 

Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)

3390 Peachtree Road NE, Suite 1400 Atlanta, GA 30326

(404) 975-5000 

The most recent accreditation decision made by the ACEN Board of Commissioners for the Associates degree nursing program is Continuing Accreditation