News Release- For Immediate Release

October 3, 2008

Contact:
Nancy Mercado RN, Health Occupations Program Director and Teacher, South Fork High School; (772)219-1840, mercadn@martin.k12.fl.us

Marshall Skinner, Director; Martin County School District, Department of Vocational, Adult and Community Education(772)219-1200, ext. 1-30256, skinnem@martin.k12.fl.us

Kelli Lane, Media Relations, Keiser University; 954-235-0331, kellil@keiseruniversity.edu

Keiser University's Partnership Encourages SFHS Students Seeking Medical Careers

South Fork High School Nursing Assisting students are another step closer to achieving real life career experience thanks to partnership activities with Keiser University.

At a reception hosted by South Fork High School on September 15, Keiser University presented 30 students with their own medical supply bag, valued at $1500.00 each. The bags are complete with a blood pressure cuff, stethoscope, a thermometer, scissors and a pair of scrubs. In addition, a recent field trip to Keiser University provided students with new insight to possible fields of study as they make plans for their future health care careers. The South Fork students were able to experience first hand the opportunities offered through Keiser's Massage Therapy, Sports Medicine and Fitness Technology, Medical Assisting, Radiologic Technology, and Surgical Technology programs.

"The students are energized by the Keiser University visit," stated Nancy Mercado, RN, BSN, nursing assisting teacher at South Fork High School. "The medical supply bag and the Keiser field trip have been such positive incentives for our students. The potential is enormous when educational organizations work together," she added.

Mr. John Bowman, Keiser University Community Relations, has worked diligently with South Fork High School to help instructors establish a strong program to prepare students for careers in the medical field. Last spring, Keiser University provided supplies to students in Martin County High School's medical program.

"In our decision to donate to South Fork High School," says Bowman, "Keiser University looks for quality high school programs that present opportunities to students interested in high demand career fields." Mr. Bowman also serves on the South Fork High School advisory board for the medical academy.

The Port St. Lucie campus of Keiser University is located at 10330 South US 1 and serves approximately 450 students. The newest program offerings include the Associate of Science in Biotechnology and the Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine and Fitness Technology.

Keiser University is Florida's leading private, statewide provider of career-focused, post-secondary education and is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Keiser University serves approximately 12,000 students seeking associate, bachelor's and master's degrees in over 40 high demand degree programs.

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