Community partnerships for an LPN to BSN career mobility project.

Based on a 6-year, learn and earn curriculum, the authors report on a year-old project that assists licensed practical nurses (LPNs) to obtain a baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN). Partnerships with 4 area healthcare agencies employing LPNs were developed to support students with full or partial tuition reimbursement and work schedules to accommodate classes. Key university staff in the offices of admissions, financial aid, adult programs and services, and nursing advisement are assigned to this student group to provide individualized assistance. The authors discuss unique components of the project including regularly scheduled role transition seminars, faculty mentors, BSN and nurse practitioner clinical mentors, and clinical experiences in nurse-managed clinics.