Patrick Gandy and Dr. Vincent June (Center) cut ribbon with members of the new RN Cohort
¾«¶«´«Ã½ (SoLAcc), in partnership with Ochsner Lafayette General, has officially launched a new evening and weekend Practical Nursing (PN) to Registered Nursing (RN) program designed to help working LPNs advance their careers without stepping away from their jobs.
Eight Ochsner Lafayette General employees were selected for the inaugural cohort, which began on August 18 at SoLAcc’s Lafayette campus. The program allows licensed practical nurses to earn their associate degree in nursing through a flexible format tailored for full-time professionals, with classes held during evenings and weekends. Graduation is expected in August 2026.
“This partnership reflects what’s possible when higher education and healthcare come together to solve workforce challenges head-on,” said Dr. Vincent June, Chancellor of SoLAcc. “Together, we’re building a bridge from potential to purpose—offering a pathway that empowers working professionals to advance in their careers while meeting critical healthcare needs in our communities.”
“At Ochsner, we believe investing in our people is one of the most powerful ways we can expand access to care and improve health outcomes across our region,” said Patrick Gandy, chief executive officer, Ochsner Lafayette General. “This partnership with SoLAcc reflects our shared commitment to growing the next generation of nurses right here in Acadiana—creating career pathways for our team members while strengthening the future of healthcare in the communities we serve.”
The application cycle for the program concluded in May following a series of informational sessions hosted by SoLAcc and Ochsner Lafayette General for interested LPNs. During these sessions, applicants received clear guidance and support to help them prepare a strong application. The result: a highly motivated inaugural class ready to step into the next phase of their healthcare careers.
“This model meets our students where they are—literally and figuratively,” said Courtney Metz, Assistant Dean of Nursing Programs at SoLAcc. “It honors their experience, provides flexibility, and sets them up for long-term success in the field of nursing.”
Ochsner Lafayette General played a pivotal role in identifying and supporting candidates from within its workforce and will continue to provide resources to help students succeed throughout the program. Students maintain full-time employment throughout the program, preserving their pay and benefits while continuing to serve patients in their current roles.
A formal announcement event was held Thursday, September 4th at SoLAcc’s Lafayette campus and featured remarks from Dr. Vincent June and Patrick Gandy of Ochsner Lafayette General.
Anyone interested in learning more about SoLAcc’s PN to RN classes should visit .