Thanks to charitable gifts, Aurora Sinai Medical Center and Aurora St. Luke’s Medical Center have launched unique initiatives that support the next generation of nurses and other health care professionals: the Best Fit for Teens, Best Fit for Nurse Advancement and Bridge to Practice programs.
At Aurora Sinai, the Best Fit for Teens program was made possible because of generous gifts from two corporate sponsors, ManpowerGroup Foundation and American Transmission Company. Best Fit for Teens is a volunteer health care career exploration program for high school juniors and seniors that introduces them to health care systems, professions, and operational processes. Participants engage in job shadowing across various hospital departments, assisting caregivers, interacting with patients and observing health care professionals at work.
“By connecting students with real hospital roles, Best Fit for Teens builds a stronger, more informed, and more inspired future health care workforce,” explained Chuck Wesolowski, RN, Director of Surgical Services. “Today’s high school students are tomorrow’s health care leaders.”
The program includes learning sessions with guest speakers, CPR training, professional development guidance and a scholarship opportunity for eligible participants
“We just started the program, and my favorite part has been the CPR certification with Milwaukee Fire Department,” shared Ameria Smith, a student at Aurora Sinai. “It was a great experience to learn from people who save lives every day.”
The program is designed to spark interest while building foundational skills for students considering post-secondary education or careers in health care. Through hands-on opportunities, job shadowing, patient interaction, mentorship and career development, Best Fit for Teens inspires students, creating a pipeline for the next generation of healthcare professionals.
“Best Fit for Teens has been very eye opening,” said Socorro Gonzalez, another student at Aurora Sinai. “I came in wanting to do pediatrics. But since being here and hearing people talking, I have become interested in the ER and nursing.”
“This firsthand exposure showed me how meaningful and rewarding a health care career can be, as it allows you to make an immediate and lasting impact on people’s lives,” added a student at Aurora St. Luke’s.
Ensuring a continuing education for nurses
The Best Fit for Nurse Advancement (BFNA) program makes a profound impact on the careers of experienced nurses, empowering them to explore advanced nursing practice, transition into new specialties, and step into leadership roles. This initiative not only facilitates professional growth but also strengthens nurse retention, ensuring that skilled and passionate nurses remain within our organization. Of the 46 experienced nurses who participated at Aurora St. Luke’s in 2024, an impressive 27 have successfully advanced into new roles within the organization. Their career advancements span a diverse range of leadership and specialty positions.
Additionally, eight BFNA participants have either started or completed a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Most notably, the program has demonstrated an extraordinary retention rate – 94% of nurses who have completed the program remain within the organization, contributing their expertise to enhance patient care and nursing leadership.
“Deciding to try this program has been one of the best decisions I have ever made,” shared Erin Kircher, System Chair for Professional Development Council. “It helped inspire me to return to grad school and gave me the confidence to pursue other leadership opportunities. I now am the co-chair for the regional nursing professional development council that helps support 22,000 nurses.”
The Bridge to Practice program complements the Best Fit for Nurse Advancement initiative by providing structured support and mentorship to new nurses. This program pairs second-year nursing students with experienced nurses, offering students a glimpse into the realities of the health care work environment and specialty practice settings. Through monthly information sessions and hands-on mentorship, the program helps bridge the gap between academic learning and clinical practice.
Both programs emphasize the importance of mentorship and support in the early stages of a nurse’s career. By providing new nurses with the guidance and resources they need, these programs help build a more competent and confident nursing workforce. This, in turn, leads to better patient outcomes and a more positive work environment.
How you can help
All three of these programs would not be possible without the generosity of our donors. Please consider a gift to support future and current health care professionals at Aurora Sinai, Aurora St. Luke’s or a hospital or program in your community.