Galen College of Nursing, in partnership with HCA Healthcare Far West Division, celebrated the grand opening of its new Las Vegas campus on Wednesday, October 23rd. This facility will play a key role in addressing Nevada’s nursing shortage by training the next generation of nurses and providing a steady pipeline of skilled professionals to meet the region’s growing healthcare needs.
A faculty member giving a tour at the Galen College of Nursing Las Vegas Campus Grand Opening on October 23.
The grand opening not only marked the inauguration of the new campus but also provided an opportunity for attendees to explore the college and experience firsthand the simulated lab demonstrations that are a cornerstone of Galen’s approach to quality nursing education.
Nevada, like the rest of the country, continues to face a severe shortage of registered nurses. A 2022 call to action by the Nevada Health Workforce Research Center revealed that the state needs more than 4,000 additional registered nurses just to meet the national average for population-to-RN ratio. With 150+ students already enrolled, the new Galen campus in Las Vegas aims to create a steady pipeline of nurses, helping alleviate the shortage while providing high-quality patient care across the region.
Mark Vogt, CEO, Galen College of Nursing, giving remarks at the Galen Las Vegas Campus Grand Opening on October 23.
Jackie Van Blaricum, President of HCA Healthcare Far West Division, emphasized the importance of this milestone: “The opening of Galen’s Las Vegas campus couldn’t come at a more critical time. By cultivating homegrown nursing talent, we’re not only helping to address the shortage but also building a sustainable healthcare workforce for our hospitals and communities. This campus represents an investment in the future of healthcare in Nevada, and the nurses who graduate from here will be the ones shaping that future.”
Galen’s focused approach to nursing education is designed to support the needs of local hospitals, including Southern Hills Hospital, which is part of the HCA Healthcare Far West network. Mark Vogt, CEO of Galen College of Nursing, shared the college’s commitment: “At Galen, our mission has always been to expand access to quality nursing education and welcome new individuals into the profession. Seeing this come to life and meeting the passionate students who will be educated here is incredibly inspiring. We are excited to support their journeys as they become compassionate caregivers who will provide quality care in this community and beyond.”
The ribbon cutting at the Galen College of Nursing Las Vegas Campus Grand Opening on October 23, left to right: Sonny Vinuya, Southern Nevada Outreach Director; Mark Vogt, CEO, Galen College of Nursing; Landon Horton, Dean, Galen College of Nursing Las Vegas Campus; Jackie Van Blaricum, President, HCA Healthcare, Far West Division; Leon Gladney, Director of Campus Operations, Galen College of Nursing Las Vegas Campus; Annette Greenwood, Chief Nurse Executive, HCA Healthcare, Far West Division; and Assemblywoman Heidi Kasama
Annette Greenwood, Chief Nurse Executive for HCA Healthcare Far West Division, highlighted the critical role the new Galen campus will play in addressing the workforce shortage. “The need for skilled, compassionate nurses has never been greater. This campus will ensure we can meet that demand by training nurses who are ready to step into the field and make an immediate impact. Every graduate will help us deliver the high-quality care our patients deserve.”
About Galen College of Nursing
Founded more than 30 years ago, Galen College of Nursing is one of the largest educators of nurses in the United States. With a focus solely on nursing education, Galen offers doctoral, master’s, baccalaureate, associate, and practical/vocational nursing programs to over 16,000 students at its 21 enrolling campuses across 12 states, plus online. Galen is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Programmatic accreditation status for Galen’s programs can be found on the College website.
About HCA Healthcare Far West
As part of a strong network of hospitals throughout California and Nevada, HCA Far West is committed to supporting its healthcare professionals and ensuring their growth. Exclusive and specialty medical services in Nevada and California – in nine hospitals and six surgical centers – provide a full spectrum of primary, acute, tertiary and chronic care for you and your loved ones. Our specialized care areas focus on advancing the science of medicine while providing high quality, new and life-saving technology, and safe patient care.
From Nevada’s Las Vegas Valley to the Silicon Valley, West Valley and South Bay Area in California, we are recognized for our quality awards and accreditations. As supportive community healthcare partners with a commitment to the improvement of human life, you are cared for by compassionate physicians, nurses and staff who are trained in the finest medical schools.
Apply Now 
Request Information 
Contact Us (877) 223-7040