Rochester Regional Health welcomed 47 local high school students to Rochester General Hospital for the fourth annual Cardinal Nurse Camp, a weeklong program presented in partnership with St. John Fisher University’s Wegmans School of Nursing.
The camp is designed for students entering 11th and 12th grades who are interested in healthcare careers. It provides an immersive introduction to the nursing profession through classroom instruction, simulation experiences, and hands-on activities alongside healthcare professionals.
During the week, students explored a variety of clinical settings, practiced fundamental nursing skills, and learned directly from Rochester Regional Health nurses and care teams. Campers also had the opportunity to use the hospital’s advanced simulation technology, including augmented reality and virtual reality training environments that help prepare future nurses for real-world patient care.
“Today’s students are tomorrow’s caregivers,” said Charlene Wilson, Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer for Rochester Regional Health. “By investing in opportunities like Nurse Camp, we’re investing in the future health of our communities. We hope these students leave inspired by what they’ve seen and excited about the many possibilities a career in nursing can offer.”
“There is no substitute for seeing nursing in action,” said Tricia Gatlin, Dean of the Wegmans School of Nursing at St. John Fisher University. “This camp allows students to step beyond the classroom, meet practicing nurses, and experience the teamwork, compassion, and critical thinking that define the profession. We hope it gives them confidence as they begin to imagine themselves in these roles one day.”
As healthcare organizations nationwide continue investing in the future workforce, programs like Cardinal Nurse Camp give students valuable exposure to clinical environments while helping them envision careers dedicated to caring for others.
