GCC Receives Donation for OB Training
Gogebic Community College received a generous donation from Lawrence Kutz, of Hurley, WI to help ensure that students in the Nursing and Emergency Medical Services (EMS) programs are fully prepared to enter the workforce, as access to obstetrical care declines in the region.
The contribution will be used to purchase critical birthing simulation equipment and expand hands-on training opportunities for students. This investment comes at a crucial time following the closure of obstetrics departments at Aspirus facilities in both the Keweenaw and Ironwood locations, leaving fewer local options for labor and delivery.
“With changes in local obstetrics services, it is more important than ever that our
future nurses and EMS professionals are confident, skilled, and ready to respond in
emergency and out-of-hospital birth situations,” said Nicole Rowe, GCC Director of Allied Health. “The new equipment will allow students to practice
realistic birthing scenarios, emergency situations, and patient care techniques in
a controlled learning environment.”
“We are extremely grateful for this support. Investments like this ensure our students are not only educated, but truly workforce-ready to meet the evolving healthcare needs in our communities.” said Chris Patritto, GCC President.
For more information about the Nursing and Emergency Medical Services programs, please call (906) 307-1268, email GCC.AlliedHealth@gogebic.edu, or visit the website at Gogebic.edu.
Pictured from L-R: Chris Patritto, GCC President, Joe Simonich, Chief Operations Officer of Avanti Health Systems, representing Lawrence Kutz, presenting Nicole Rowe, GCC Allied Health Director, with a check to purchase obstetrical birthing equipment to support the training of future nurses and EMS providers with essential skills necessary in the medical field. Also pictured is Kelly Marczak, GCC Director of Institutional Development and Foundation Executive Director and Stephanie Innes, GCC Finance Director.
