SEMO, Saint Francis Healthcare System announce partnership to expand education opportunities

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Southeast Missouri State University and Saint Francis Healthcare System are expanding their partnership to make higher education more accessible for health care employees and their families.

The organizations formally established the Pinnacle Corporate Partnership during a signing ceremony Friday, Oct. 23, at Saint Francis Healthcare System in Cape Girardeau.

The partnership aims to provide more affordable educational opportunities while strengthening the region’s health care workforce.

“Saint Francis Healthcare System has been an important partner in preparing health care professionals for our region and providing critical hands-on experience for our students,” SEMO President Brad Hodson said. “This partnership builds on that relationship by creating new opportunities for Saint Francis employees and their families to pursue a SEMO education.”

Saint Francis President and CEO Justin Davison said the agreement will help strengthen the regional workforce and create more affordable pathways to higher education and allied health programs.

The organizations have previously collaborated on educational programs, including SEMO’s Bachelor of Applied Science in allied health, which offers flexible degree options for professionals working in medical imaging and related fields.

Through SEMO’s corporate partnership program, participating organizations can access reduced tuition benefits for employees, workforce training, professional meeting spaces and opportunities for internships, cooperative education and full-time employment.

More information about the partnership is available at semo.edu/corporate-partnerships.