For many nurses, advancing their education is a key step to career growth. Meet Kelly Raines, a remarkable example from Galen College of Nursing. A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) graduate who transitioned from student to dedicated faculty member, now shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals at the Galen College of Nursing Asheville campus.
This inspiring alumna always envisioned a path beyond the bedside, ultimately aspiring to a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Her journey took a pivotal turn when she discovered a passion for teaching, ignited by mentoring students during her time on a med-surg floor at Mission Hospital.
“I want to grow and challenge myself more and more,” Kelly shared. “Teaching was something I was interested in—and then everything fell into place.”
Just as she completed her Galen MSN degree, the college opened its new campus in Asheville, North Carolina. Seizing the opportunity, Raines joined the inaugural cohort of adjunct faculty in October 2023. Her dedication and expertise quickly shone through, leading to a full-time faculty position within three months. She has since become an invaluable asset to the Asheville team.
Lorraine Geffon, DNP, RN, Dean of the Galen Asheville campus, praises her rapid growth: “She came to us with lots of hospital experience… She came as a novice educator and she has definitely grown and had great success with her students. Kelly is a wonderful person to talk to and very passionate about student success.”
This passion is evident in her commitment to student support. She actively reaches out to students, providing face-to-face assistance and valuable resources. “She’s a big supporter of the students,” Dean Geffon emphasizes.
Drawing on her own experience as a Galen MSN student, Raines now teaches core nursing classes and leads clinicals at Mission Hospital. Her students include those pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and participants in the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) to ADN bridge program.
Her classroom experience has reinforced a core belief: regardless of background, every student possesses the potential to become a compassionate caregiver. She highlights Galen’s unique approach to student opportunity:
“One way I believe Galen demonstrates compassion is by offering each student—despite the presence of several barriers—a genuine opportunity to earn a nursing degree. This is not something that every nursing program does, and I think it’s a powerful example of how Galen goes the extra inch to show compassion by remembering each student is deserving of the opportunity to succeed in nursing school.”
For many nurses, an MSN degree is a strategic move to transition from direct patient care into new, impactful roles like nurse educator or healthcare leader. Galen’s comprehensive MSN program is specifically designed to support both pathways, providing graduates with the skills and knowledge needed for their next career step.
“If they’re wanting to do leadership or academics, the MSN is definitely the way to have more doors open,” Raines advises. “There’s nothing wrong with being at the bedside and figuring out what you want to do.”
Reflecting on her own educational journey, she emphasizes the robust support system at Galen: “With the experience I had through my MSN program, I was very well supported… The level of support you get from Galen is just great.”
Discover other opportunities in nursing here. Are you a nurse considering advancing your education? Explore the possibilities with a Galen MSN degree and unlock new career opportunities in nursing education or leadership.
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