Augusta University graduates record number of mental health nurses

The Augusta University College of Nursing recently celebrated the graduation of its largest cohort of Doctor of Nursing Practice Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP), with 15 students completing their programs. This milestone aligns with May’s designation as Mental Health Awareness Month, which this year focuses on turning awareness into actionable efforts.

Since 1949, May has served to highlight the importance of mental health, and organizations like Mental Health America emphasize the need for ongoing action to improve mental health services. In Georgia, approximately 72% of counties face shortages of mental health professionals, underscoring the urgent need for trained practitioners.

The College of Nursing has been proactive in addressing this shortage through its PMHNP and Post-Masters Certificate programs. Since 2020, over 30 students have graduated from these programs, achieving a remarkable 100% pass rate on their certification exams.

Caroline McKinnon, PhD, program coordinator and associate professor, expressed pride in this year’s cohort, noting their potential impact on Georgia’s mental health landscape. The graduates are equipped to tackle mental health challenges across all age groups, helping to fill the gaps in care.

Among the graduates, Shanieca Taylor, DNP, will join a nationally recognized Veterans Affairs PMHNP Residency Program, aiming to improve access to mental health care amid a growing shortage of providers. “I’m proud to be part of the next generation working to expand access to quality care,” Taylor said, emphasizing her commitment to support individuals and families affected by mental illness.

Kishauna Reid, DNP, also highlighted the significance of graduating during Mental Health Awareness Month. She aims to advocate for patients whose needs are frequently overlooked, reinforcing her dedication to raising awareness and compassion within the community.

Sun-Yi Hoyt, DNP, shared her long-standing commitment to helping veterans with mental health issues. She pointed out the insufficient number of prescribers available to meet the existing demand, advocating for full practice authority for nurse practitioners in Georgia to help alleviate this shortage.

The Augusta University College of Nursing remains focused on addressing pressing health care issues, including the nursing shortage and the mental health crisis. With a commitment to producing highly trained nurses, the college aims to continue its efforts in developing practitioners equipped to meet the growing needs in mental health care.