Ozarks Healthcare Celebrates Nurse Residency Graduates

29 new nurses complete program, receive special awards

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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Ozarks Healthcare recently held a pinning ceremony to celebrate 29 new nurses who successfully completed the organization's Nurse Residency Program. The group included 20 Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and 9 Registered Nurses (RNs) from several regional schools. The program is designed to support new nurses as they transition from the classroom to patient care by providing additional training, mentorship, and hands-on experience.

Why it matters

The Nurse Residency Program at Ozarks Healthcare helps new nurses build the confidence and clinical skills needed to provide compassionate, high-quality care to the communities the healthcare system serves. Retaining and supporting new nurses is crucial for healthcare organizations, especially in rural areas that often face nursing shortages.

The details

During the ceremony, several residents were honored with special awards for excellence, including the Quality Award, Community Award, Growth Award, People Award, Service Award, and Outstanding Resident Award. The Nurse Residency Program at Ozarks Healthcare begins each January and June, and applicants must have completed an LPN or RN program within the previous six months and hold current LPN and/or RN licensure.

  • The pinning ceremony was held on March 11, 2026.
  • The Nurse Residency Program at Ozarks Healthcare begins each January and June.

The players

Ozarks Healthcare

A healthcare system serving communities in the Ozarks region of Missouri.

Terence Farrell

Ozarks Healthcare President and CEO.

Christen Weaver

Ozarks Healthcare Chief Nursing Officer.

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What they’re saying

“We are proud to welcome these talented nurses as they begin their careers at Ozarks Healthcare. Our Nurse Residency Program is designed to support new nurses as they grow in skill and confidence while providing compassionate, high-quality care to the communities we serve across our region. Their dedication and commitment to patients are truly inspiring.”

— Terence Farrell, Ozarks Healthcare President and CEO (ecommnewsnetwork.com)

“Our nurse residents bring energy, compassion, and a strong desire to learn. This program gives them the support and guidance they need as they move from education into real-world patient care, helping them build the confidence and clinical skills needed to serve our patients and communities.”

— Christen Weaver, Ozarks Healthcare Chief Nursing Officer (ecommnewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

The next Nurse Residency Program at Ozarks Healthcare will begin in January 2027.

The takeaway

Ozarks Healthcare's Nurse Residency Program is a crucial initiative that supports new nurses as they transition from the classroom to patient care, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed to provide high-quality, compassionate care in the Ozarks region.