Forward Janesville recently joined community and education leaders to celebrate a milestone moment for local workforce and economic development: the Ribbon Cutting of the new Mercyhealth Medical Sciences Hub at the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater at Rock County.
This new collaboration between Mercyhealth, Edgewood University, and UW–Whitewater at Rock County opens the door for local students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) without leaving Rock County. It’s a major step toward strengthening our region’s healthcare workforce and keeping talented young professionals right here in southern Wisconsin.
Students who begin their academic journey at UW–Whitewater at Rock County can now seamlessly transition into Edgewood University’s accredited BSN program, all while staying close to home. Through the partnership, Mercyhealth will provide hands-on clinical experiences and mentorship opportunities, allowing students to gain real-world experience within the same health system that serves our community.
“UW-Whitewater is committed to addressing the needs of the region,” said Chancellor Corey King. “Together, with Mercyhealth, we’re making an investment in today and the future — ensuring our healthcare workforce is well-educated, robust and adaptable. The Mercyhealth Medical Sciences Hub on the Rock County campus offers hands-on engagement and learning opportunities. It provides our students with valuable real-world experiences desired by employers.”
“Mercyhealth is proud to grow our partnership with UW-Whitewater at Rock County and Edgewood University. Creating opportunities for nursing students within our community is about more than education — it’s about building the future of healthcare. We’re excited to train and empower the nurses who will care for generations to come,” said Kara Sankey, vice president of operations at Mercyhealth and a member of Forward Janesville’s Board of Directors.
The new Medical Sciences Hub is more than a classroom space, it’s a bridge between education and employment. With a growing demand for nurses across Wisconsin, this program helps meet a critical workforce need while giving local students the chance to build their futures here.
During the event, students spoke about how meaningful it is to be able to stay close to family and friends while pursuing their degree. The partnership eliminates the need for long commutes to Madison or beyond, reducing barriers for those who want to advance in healthcare careers.
Forward Janesville has long recognized the importance of workforce development, and it is part of our Growth Wheel. From supporting youth apprenticeship programs to promoting business-education partnerships, we know that developing local talent is key to long-term economic success. Collaborations like this show how aligning education, healthcare and business can create sustainable solutions to workforce challenges.
Our organization proudly champions these kinds of initiatives because they embody the values of innovation, collaboration and community growth. When educational institutions and employers work hand in hand, we build not only a stronger workforce but also a more resilient local economy.
As the first students move through this new BSN pathway, Forward Janesville will continue to support efforts that help connect learning with opportunity. The Mercyhealth–Edgewood–UW–Whitewater partnership is a model for how our region can grow its own talent—and keep it here—fueling both professional and community prosperity for years to come.