SSM Health Recognized by Kaskaskia College for Workforce Partnership Supporting Rural Illinois Care
SSM Health’s Partnership with Community College Strengthens Nursing and Allied Health Pipeline for Rural Healthcare Access
Centralia, IL (May 6, 2026) – SSM Health was honored by Kaskaskia College at the Community College’s Annual Awards Banquet with the Business & Industry Partnership award. This award celebrates a joint initiative aimed at enhancing the healthcare workforce in Southern Illinois by promoting education and career opportunities in nursing and allied health fields.
The partnership reflects a shared commitment to preparing local students for in-demand healthcare careers while addressing workforce shortages that disproportionately affect rural communities. Kaskaskia College offers nursing and allied health programs, such as nursing, radiologic technology, laboratory sciences, respiratory therapy, and other clinical support roles. Students gain both classroom instruction and practical clinical experience, which often leads directly to employment at SSM Health facilities after graduation.
Rural hospitals across Southern Illinois play a critical role in providing access to care close to home and rely on strong, stable teams of nurses and allied health professionals to support physicians and advanced practice providers. As demand for care continues to grow, these frontline roles are essential to maintaining access, quality, and continuity of services in rural communities.
Strengthening local education-to-career pipelines for healthcare students helps stabilize the rural care environment. “Our partnership with Kaskaskia College not only develops the healthcare workforce; it also helps ensure that care is delivered by professionals who are trained locally and committed to the communities they serve,” said Damon Harbison, president of SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital, SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, and SSM Health’s Rural Health Network of Illinois. “Together, we are investing in local talent to support the next generation of caregivers and ensure access to care for Southern Illinois.”
The recognition underscores the impact of education and industry partnerships in strengthening rural healthcare and supporting sustainable workforce solutions for the communities SSM Health serves.
Kaskaskia College | (618) 545-3000 | 27210 College Road | Centralia, IL 62801 | https://www.kaskaskia.edu/
SSM Health St Mary's Hospital | (618) 532-6731 | 400 N. Pleasant | Centralia, IL 62801 | https://www.ssmhealth.com/illinois