Adelante (Moving Forward): An Innovative Program for Nursing and Prenursing Students

Abstract

The US population reflects a rich diversity of people that is not reflected in the health care workforce. This article describes the Adelante (Moving Forward) Program, an innovative model designed to increase nursing workforce diversity. Adelante was created to advance baccalaureate nursing students and prenursing students by using supportive developmental relationships and mentoring strategies. Graduates stated that they planned to advance their education. Further development of innovative programs for nursing students from diverse backgrounds is imperative to increase health care workforce diversity.

Nursing's Critical Role in Driving Toward Health Equity

“…9 Publications described strategies to increase the diversity of students in undergraduate nursing programs, focusing on recruitment, faculty engagement, and mentorship. [10][11][12][13][14] Others emphasized the need for emotional, financial, and academic support to allow students to thrive. 15,16 However, no publications were identified that focused on how to increase the diversity of nurses in clinical practice settings.…”

“…Publications described strategies to increase the diversity of students in undergraduate nursing programs, focusing on recruitment, faculty engagement, and mentorship 10-14 . Others emphasized the need for emotional, financial, and academic support to allow students to thrive 15,16 .…”