Wednesday, December 03, 2008

NEWS

First GSW Graduate Earns Caregiving Certificate

In the fall of 2007, Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) launched a certificate program unlike any other in the nation. The Caregiving Specialist Certificate Program focuses on training leaders to overcome “the Caregiving Crisis” in America. While many students are currently working toward their Certificate, the first student to complete all requirements was recognized during GSW’s Spring Commencement.

Sabina Nell graduated with a Caregiving Specialist Certificate in addition to her Cum Laude Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and was recognized for her achievements at the GSW graduation ceremony. Since graduation, Sabina has traveled to her homeland of Croatia to work in the orphanage where she grew up. In the fall, Sabina will enter the U.S. Air Force. Sabina hopes to continue her education while serving in the Air Force, and apply her caregiving leadership skills in a career serving others.

The 18-credit “Caregiving Specialist” Certificate Program at GSW includes courses in psychology, nursing, special education and sociology as well as a community practicum and leadership training. The RCI worked in conjunction with university faculty to develop the curriculum for the Certificate program. In addition, the university and RCI are working together to develop additional programs to train leaders in long-term, home and community-based care at the graduate and mid-career levels.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 45 percent increase in demand for new long term care workers between 2000 and 2010 alone – the equivalent of approximately 800,000 new jobs.

GSW hopes to educate a group of individuals who have the skills and knowledge to address the growing crisis in the workforce, and offer students a unique leadership program not available at other universities. Many students will be pursuing caregiving certificates at GSW this fall semester, which begins August 14.