Coastal Alabama Community College’s Nursing Program has been named a National League for Nursing Center of Excellence for 2026, placing the program among just 20 nursing education programs nationwide to receive the distinction this year.

The designation, awarded in the category of Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development, recognizes nursing education programs that demonstrate sustained excellence and innovation in preparing future nurses, a news release from the college said.

The NLN Centers of Excellence program honors nursing schools and organizations that have achieved measurable, sustained excellence in key areas of nursing education. Coastal Alabama’s recognition reflects its commitment to providing an inclusive, supportive and academically rigorous environment where students can succeed and faculty can continue to grow professionally.

“This recognition is a testament to the dedication, passion, and collaborative spirit of our nursing faculty, staff, students, and clinical partners,” Dr. Tiffany Scarborough, Dean of Nursing and Allied Health at Coastal Alabama Community College, said in the release. “Our mission has always been to prepare compassionate, highly skilled nurses who are ready to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our communities. Being recognized as an NLN Center of Excellence validates the intentional work our team has invested in creating exceptional learning experiences.”

The Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development designation recognizes institutions that foster learning environments built around innovation, collaboration, evidence-based teaching practices, student engagement and ongoing professional growth for faculty and staff.

Coastal Alabama’s nursing program was recognized for several strengths, including student-centered teaching and learning strategies, comprehensive academic support and student success initiatives and a strong emphasis on faculty excellence, mentorship and professional development.

The program also provides innovative simulation education through a Society for Simulation in Healthcare-accredited Simulation Laboratory and maintains partnerships with healthcare organizations throughout the region to provide students with clinical experiences.

Nursing apprenticeship opportunities are another feature of the program, including what the college identifies as the nation’s first registered Practical Nursing (PN) apprenticeship option.

The program also emphasizes continuous quality improvement and evidence-based education as part of its approach to preparing students for careers in nursing.

“This honor reflects our commitment to student success from admission through graduation,” said Dr. Tyler Sturdivant, Associate Dean of Nursing and Nursing Program Administrator at Coastal Alabama Community College. “We have intentionally built a culture that promotes academic excellence, resilience, mentorship, and professional development while preparing graduates to provide safe, high-quality patient care. We are honored to receive this national distinction.”

The National League for Nursing is the premier organization for nurse faculty and leaders in nursing education, dedicated to promoting excellence in academia to build a strong and diverse nursing workforce.

Institutions designated as NLN Centers of Excellence serve as national models for innovation, leadership and excellence in nursing education.