FSW and Fawcett Hospital Explore Stronger Nursing Partnership


November 13th, 2026

A strong healthcare system starts with skilled professionals. In Charlotte County, a growing collaboration between Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) and HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital is helping advance conversations about nursing education, hands-on training, and future career opportunities.

FSW Workforce Education Newsletter

Charlotte County Nursing Workforce: Building Stronger Connections

Leaders from FSW’s School of Nursing recently met with representatives from HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital in Port Charlotte to explore opportunities to strengthen their existing partnership.

The discussion brought together Dr. Susan Holland, Dean of FSW’s School of Nursing; Whitney Rhyne, Assistant Vice President of Workforce Education; Beth Albaugh, Chief Nursing Officer at Fawcett Hospital; and John Secreto, Assistant Chief Nursing Officer.

Their shared focus? Connecting nursing education with the practical experience students need to prepare for healthcare careers.

Strengthening Nursing Education and Clinical Training

The organizations explored several opportunities to expand collaboration, including clinical relationships, preceptorships, guest lectures, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) projects, and greater participation on advisory boards.

These opportunities could give nursing students additional exposure to healthcare professionals, clinical environments, and the everyday demands of patient care.

For healthcare employers, stronger education partnerships can help align workforce preparation with industry needs.

Supporting the Charlotte County Nursing Workforce

Healthcare partnerships play an important role in Charlotte County’s economic development strategy. By connecting educational institutions with local employers, our community can support career pathways while helping businesses prepare for future workforce needs.

The FSW and Fawcett Hospital collaboration reflects the value of bringing educators and healthcare leaders together around a shared goal: preparing the next generation of skilled nursing professionals.

Interested in exploring healthcare education and career pathways in Charlotte County? Visit Careers on the Coast or learn more about Florida SouthWestern State College.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which organizations are involved?

Florida SouthWestern State College and HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital.

What opportunities are being explored?

Expanded clinical relationships, preceptorships, lectures, BSN projects, and advisory board participation.

Why does this matter to local employers?

Education partnerships help connect professional training with healthcare workforce needs.

Investing in Tomorrow’s Healthcare Workforce

As Charlotte County continues strengthening its talent pipeline, partnerships between colleges and employers remain essential. Together, they help create opportunities for students and support the skilled workforce that local healthcare providers depend on.