A new workforce development partnership between Keuka College and Finger Lakes Community Health will provide FLCH’s 200-plus employees and their families tuition discounts at Keuka College while creating new internship, clinical, and hiring opportunities for students.
The agreement targets a persistent regional challenge: building a steady pipeline of nurses, social workers, and behavioral health professionals to serve rural and underserved communities.
Under the partnership, FLCH employees and their family members will be eligible for a discount in Keuka College’s online and hybrid degree programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing, social work, and management.
In turn, Keuka College students in these fields, and related disciplines like psychology and occupational therapy, will have greater opportunities for annual Field Period® experiences, clinical placements, and long-term employment at Penn Yan-based FLCH’s eight centers serving six adjoining counties.
Keuka College Vice President Pete Bekisz said this agreement builds on the partners’ shared commitment to innovative health education in the Finger Lakes.
“Beyond providing essential health services to diverse and rural populations, FLCH has been a leader in telehealth and remote training. Likewise, Keuka College has embraced the best of online education while remaining deeply rooted in hands-on learning and service to our local communities.”
Mary Zelazny, CEO of Finger Lakes Community Health, added, “This partnership will open doors for Keuka College students and FLCH employees, and it will strengthen our ability to meet the health and social care needs of the region.”
For more information about Keuka College’s Business Partnership Program, contact Workforce Development Specialist Steve Griffin at [email protected].
