Board of Nursing accreditation elevates Central State University's Community Health Worker Program

Above: Students from the December 2023 Community Health Worker Program graduation ceremony. The program has received full accreditation from the Ohio State Board of Nursing in February.

Central State University's Community Health Worker Program is set to launch its first state-accredited cohort soon, following a significant milestone of securing accreditation by the Ohio Board of Nursing in February. This new accreditation is a testament to the dedicated efforts of Renita Porter, Family and Consumer Science Program Leader, and Brandie Duncan, Director of Financial Operations.

"This accreditation is a monumental step for Central State," Porter said. "We are excited to see our students gain state-recognized credentials that will open new doors for their careers."

Previously, participants in the CHW program, developed in partnership with CareSource, received certificates from Central State. However, with the state certification, graduates now gain enhanced professional credentials and opportunities.

The program equips individuals to become certified CHWs, potentially leading to increased wages and career opportunities. Duncan emphasized the program's impact on the local community: 

"CSU Dayton is deeply integrated into the fabric of Dayton's community. This certification reflects our dedication to providing top-tier educational opportunities that directly benefit our residents."

Participants will develop skills in data collection, client advocacy, care coordination, and promoting health among culturally diverse populations. Certified CHWs are vital members of multidisciplinary healthcare teams, providing critical support services and fostering trust within communities.

Community health workers are essential in connecting healthcare providers with the communities they serve. For more information on this and other FCS programming, contact Porter at rporter@centralstate.edu.