This May, John Carroll University will celebrate a major milestone as its inaugural nursing cohort graduates with 100% job placement. This achievement marks success for the newly launched nursing program within the College of Health, reinforcing JCU’s growing role as a leader in healthcare education.
Graduates are stepping into high-impact roles across leading healthcare systems, including Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, and the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC), helping meet a critical, growing workforce need in the region and beyond.
“This is exactly why we launched nursing at John Carroll. Our students are stepping into the workforce not only fully prepared, but deeply grounded in what it means to care for others. To see 100% of our inaugural cohort secure positions in leading health systems speaks to the strength of this program, the dedication of our faculty, and the power of learning in the Cleveland healthcare ecosystem.”
The cohort’s success comes at a time of significant growth in the nursing profession. Demand for registered nurses is projected to rise sharply over the coming years, underscoring the importance of programs like JCU’s in preparing skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals. According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, employment of advanced-degree nurses will increase by 35% from 2024 to 2034, eclipsing the expected 3% growth across all occupations. Registered nurse employment is projected to rise 5% over that period.
That demand is matched by strong earning potential. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for all U.S. occupations in 2025 was $62,088. By comparison, nurses earn a median salary of approximately $85,000 with a bachelor’s degree in nursing (BSN) and more than $106,000 with a master’s degree, according to NurseJournal.org.
“My experience at John Carroll University prepared me to transition into professional nursing with confidence, clinical competence, and a strong foundation in patient advocacy,” said Brooke Kelly, ’27, a graduating nursing student. “Through both academic and clinical experiences, I developed critical thinking skills and a passion for neurologic care. I am excited to continue this work as I begin my career on a neuro trauma unit at UPMC Pittsburgh, supported by the mentorship and guidance of Dr. Botos and the rest of the nursing staff who significantly shaped my growth and passion for nursing.”
Before crossing the commencement stage, members of the cohort will participate in a meaningful rite of passage: the Nursing Pinning Ceremony. Held on Friday, May 15, from 5 to 7 p.m., this traditional ceremony marks each graduate’s transition from student to nurse.
“This inaugural class represents so much more than a first graduating cohort," said Dawn Boettcher, EdD, MSN-RN, Director of Nursing. "It reflects the heart, vision, and commitment that have shaped this program from the very beginning. Our students have truly been pioneers, stepping into something new with courage, trust, and a willingness to help build what will come after them. In doing so, they leave behind a legacy for future students, one grounded in resilience, growth, and a shared sense of purpose. We are incredibly proud of them and grateful for the path they have helped create.”
