With the conclusion of the spring 2026 term, Galen College of Nursing’s Louisville campus has surpassed a historic milestone, graduating more than 10,000 students since the campus first opened its doors. In honor of this milestone, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenburg has issued a proclamation naming April 2026 as ‘Galen College of Nursing Month’.

Campus leaders say they are looking forward to celebrating the milestone during their April 21st graduation ceremony.

“Graduating more than 10,000 students reflects the strength of our programs and dedication of our faculty and staff for students who go on to positively impact care in our healthcare communities,” said Tracy Ortelli, Ph.D., RN, CNE, ANEF, FAAN, president and chief academic officer. “We are committed to honoring this legacy while preparing the next generation of nurses to lead and excel in an ever‑changing healthcare landscape.”

Founded in Louisville, Kentucky in 1989, Galen College of Nursing began as a single‑campus nursing school and steadily expanded to five campuses over the next two decades. The Louisville campus most recently celebrated another major milestone with its 200^th graduating cohort in April 2025.

Louisville graduate Renee Filiatreau, RN, BSN, is a prime example of the success and impact of Galen’s Louisville campus. She recently stepped into the role of Director of Surgical Services at Spring View Hospital in Lebanon, KY — a place she has proudly called home since 2017.

“Galen College of Nursing prepared me for my role as Director of Surgery by building the clinical judgment, leadership discipline, and critical decision-making skills needed to lead safely and effectively in a high-acuity surgical environment,” said Filiatreau.

Since joining the HCA Healthcare family in 2020, the college has experienced significant growth and now serves more than 19,000 students at 25 campuses in 13 states and online. As the Louisville campus celebrates surpassing 10,000 graduates this month, Galen is also marking a major milestone nationwide, with 50,543 graduates since its founding.

Galen College of Nursing is dedicated exclusively to nursing education with a focus on practical, clinical-focused learning designed to prepare students for success at the bedside and beyond. That approach remains grounded in the college’s mission: to expand access to innovative nursing education that prepares competent, confident, compassionate nurses who advance healthcare and strengthen communities.

The Louisville campus will celebrate the newest graduates on Tuesday, April 21 at Northeast Christian Church, located at 9900 Brownsboro Rd, Louisville, KY. Doors open at 6:00 p.m. with the ceremony beginning at 7:00 p.m.

To learn more about Galen College of Nursing, call 502-813-4747 or visit GalenCollege.edu.