Willamette Valley Medica Center (WVMC), is proud to celebrate 14 exceptional nurses, three who have completed the LPN to RN Apprenticeship Program and the 11 who completed the Nurse Residency Program!

As one of only five hospitals nationwide offering an LPN‑to‑RN apprenticeship, WVMC provides a unique pathway for LPNs to advance through a year of rigorous coursework through Chemeketa Community College, paid clinical rotations, and weekly labs—preparing them to step into their new roles as Registered Nurses with confidence and skill.

Our Nurse Residency Program—affectionately called “Nursing School 2.0” by participants for its elevated level of rigor—supports new RN graduates as they transition from academic learning into practice. Through blended online modules, hands-on training, and dedicated mentorship, these nurses deepen their clinical skills, strengthen critical thinking, and build a strong foundation within the WVMC culture.

To our graduates: Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to exceptional patient care inspire us all. Congratulations on your incredible achievement – Shelbi Millsap, Michael Iverson, Phebe Patino, Rachelle Tognazzini, Grace Umfleet, Brian Hamlin, Ainsley Smith, Tyler Hertel, McKenzie Kress, Mia Gillum, Maleyah Sage, Sarah Linder, Michelle Escobar, and Stephanie Perez.