Thatcher, Ariz.— Eastern Arizona College Director of Nursing Shalay Haynie, RN, MSN, was selected to join nursing experts from across the country in Chicago to help develop the National Council Licensure Examination, the national examination used to determine whether nursing graduates are prepared to begin practice safely.
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing develops the NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN examinations, which nursing regulatory bodies use as part of the licensure process for registered nurses and practical/vocational nurses. NCSBN selects qualified nursing professionals to contribute to NCLEX development based on their nursing knowledge, professional experience and clinical expertise.
Haynie participated as a panel of judges member. She was selected based on her expertise in medical surgical nursing.
“Shalay’s selection speaks to the depth of expertise and leadership she brings to Eastern Arizona College.”
Her selection places EA nursing leadership directly alongside experts who maintain one of the profession’s most important measures of entry-level nursing competence. It also gives Haynie firsthand perspective she can bring back to EA’s nursing program as faculty prepare students for licensure and professional practice.
“It was an honor to contribute to the NCLEX development process and work alongside nursing professionals who bring a wide range of expertise and experience,” Haynie said. “That experience gives us valuable perspective on the knowledge, clinical judgment and decision-making expected of new nurses. Our responsibility is to graduate nurses who are knowledgeable, confident and ready to provide safe, compassionate care from their first day in the profession.”
Haynie recently became EA’s director of nursing after serving for many years on the College’s nursing faculty. An EA alumna, she holds an associate degree from Eastern Arizona College, a bachelor’s degree from Northern Arizona University, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Western Governors University.
“Shalay’s selection speaks to the depth of expertise and leadership she brings to Eastern Arizona College,” said Aaron Burk, EA dean of STEM and health sciences. “She was chosen to contribute to a process that helps establish whether future nurses across the country are ready to enter the profession. That is significant recognition of her qualifications, and the experience comes directly back to our students.”
Burk said the impact extends beyond campus because many EA nursing graduates remain in the region to practice.
“When we strengthen nursing education at EA, we strengthen health care in the communities we serve,” Burk said. “These students become the nurses caring for our families, friends and neighbors. Having our nursing director contribute at the national level and bring that perspective home is an investment in our students and in eastern Arizona.”
Haynie’s selection comes as EA’s nursing program continues to earn statewide recognition for student success. RegisteredNursing.org ranked EA the No. 1 nursing program in Arizona, based primarily on students’ performance on the NCLEX-RN licensure examination. The recognition reflects the program’s longstanding emphasis on rigorous preparation, clinical excellence and student success.
EA is also expanding opportunities for nurses to advance their education. The College’s new Registered Nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing program is now being offered, providing an affordable, flexible pathway for registered nurses to earn a bachelor’s degree while continuing to work and serve their communities.
To learn how to begin a nursing education at Eastern Arizona College, visit eac.edu. More information about NCSBN and NCLEX examination development is available at ncsbn.org.
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About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EA is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
EA offers a diverse range of more than 90 degrees and certificates, including bachelor’s degrees. The College is home to the state’s premier nursing school and a fine arts program that features Arizona’s only community college marching band. EA also boasts an engineering program that prepares students for success at top-tier firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EA is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. Experience on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EA apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EA as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, contact admissions@eac.edu or call (928) 428-8270.
