Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing became Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing & Health Sciences on January 1, 2016. The name change reflects the addition of the College’s Associate of Science in Respiratory Care degree program and anticipated expansion into other health sciences programs.
The name change coincides with the beginning of the College’s 125th anniversary.
Discussions about starting a training school affiliated with Blessing Hospital began in 1887. Pupils were first accepted into the school in 1891. A class of three nurses graduated in 1894. Blessing Training School for Nurses was a two year training program. It became a three-year diploma program in 1904 and was one of only 34 nursing schools registered with the State of Illinois in 1909.
Discussion of a baccalaureate program began in 1957. Twenty-eight years later, in 1985, the School of Nursing became a College of Nursing to grant a four-year Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree. At this time the name Rieman was added to the College’s name, reflecting a major gift from Cedric and Lucille Rieman.
Blessing-Rieman added a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree to its educational offerings in 2007 and an Associate of Science in Respiratory Care program in 2015.
Blessing-Rieman offers its four-year BSN degree through joint programs with partners, Culver-Stockton College, Canton, MO, and Quincy University. Students take their nursing courses and participate in clinical experiences at Blessing-Rieman, and their general education courses at the partner college in which they are enrolled.
“I believe we are one of the jewels in this Gem City that shines through our graduates who have delivered quality health care around the country and the world for generations,” said Brenda Beshears, PhD, RN, President/Chief Executive Officer, Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Using the theme, “Celebrating 125 years of Transformation & Tradition” Blessing-Rieman will host monthly events during 2016 to commemorate the anniversary.
The celebration begins with a display at the Historical Museum at 332 Maine in Quincy, formerly the Gardner Museum of Architecture and Design. Museum hours are
Tuesday through Saturday, Noon-4pm. Admission is free. Donations are accepted.