For some time the current nursing shortage has been a primary concern of Notre Dame Long Term Care Center. Educational workshops to aid staff's climb up career ladders have been offered for some years. Tenth anniversary scholarships were awarded. Now we have the Education Center. Located on the lower level of The Notre Dame du Lac facility, its goal, according to Katherine Lemay, Administrator of Notre Dame Long Term Care Center, is "to be part of the solution by educating our own nurses."

The aim is to develop an "educational bridge" for staff to prepare to enroll in college programs, such as those offered by Quinsigamond College.

Courses in ESOL, English, Math, Biology, and Psychology are available to enable individuals to pass entrance exams and to complete LPN or RN programs.

The Education Center program focuses primarily on staff members, and helps to recruit and retain CNAs. Staff members of the Inter-care Alliance also participate. While the focus is on health care, advice and guidance for other careers are also available.

Founded for education, the Sisters of Notre Dame see this support for the needs of staff, and of the Notre Dame health and retirement centers, as carrying out their mission, " providing the tools for life."

There are two staff members at NDEBC: Director, Pat Campbell and Program Manager, Sue Strandberg. If you would like more information on classes or ways to help with our program, please call (508) 852-1589. We are located on the lower level at Notre Dame du Lac, 555 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA 01605