Excelsior University Partners with Caring Gene to Strengthen Health Care Workforce in Upstate New York
ALBANY, N.Y. — Excelsior University announced today that it has entered a partnership with the Caring Gene® Career Pathways Training Program (CPT) to address health care workforce shortages in the hardest-hit areas of New York state, reduce barriers to career advancement, and support individuals in underrepresented communities who seek to become compassionate professionals in the health care industry.
Through this partnership, eligible New York state residents and residents of certain bordering states receive full coverage of tuition, books, and academic fees while pursuing education in 13 health care fields. The program, administered by the Iroquois Healthcare Association and funded by the New York State Department of Health, supports both new health care workers and current professionals seeking career advancement.
“Excelsior University is proud to partner with the Caring Gene to provide meaningful education opportunities for students and address the ongoing need for health care workers in New York state,” said David Schejbal, president of Excelsior University. “Together, we aim to build a stronger health care workforce, support career advancement, and improve community health outcomes.”
To qualify for the program, students must commit to a three-year service commitment with a health care, behavioral health, or social care network provider in New York state that serves a patient population of at least 30% Medicaid-reliant or uninsured individuals. Additionally, students must complete their degree by spring 2027 and fulfill the service requirement by 2031.
“Excelsior University shares our commitment to investing in the next generation of New York state health care workers,” said Kevin M. Kerwin, Esq., Acting President and CEO of Iroquois Healthcare Association. “This program is an important step toward strengthening our health care workforce and expanding access to quality care in the communities that need it most. We look forward to working with Excelsior to recruit and guide candidates through the Caring Gene’s CPT program.”
The Caring Gene’s CPT program offers two distinct tracks: one for individuals aspiring to enter the health care industry, and another for current professionals looking to advance their careers.
The Caring Gene’s case specialists will guide participants throughout their educational journeys, ensuring they receive services and support to enter the health care workforce, and provide career advancement opportunities for current health care employees. In partnership with the Caring Gene, Excelsior University will actively recruit eligible students to apply and complete their training in health care career pathways including nursing, professional and technical roles, and front-line public health workers.
Recruitment strategies will focus on reaching underrepresented and underserved communities to ensure the health care workforce reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
Individuals who are interested in enrolling in the CPT program can learn more about eligibility by visiting the Caring Gene’s website: caringgene.org.
For more information on Excelsior University, visit excelsior.edu.
Media Contact, Excelsior University: Jason Bonafide, jbonafide@excelsior.edu, 518-608-8446
Media Contact, Caring Gene: Grazia Yaeger, GYaeger@caringgene.org, 518-383-5060 Ext. 7444
About the Caring Gene:
The Caring Gene® Healthcare Career Pathways Training Inc. is a not-for-profit organization and an affiliate of the Iroquois Healthcare Association. It is dedicated to helping people start and grow their health, behavioral health, and social care careers in New York, providing comprehensive support to individuals who have a natural calling to care for others. Learn more at caringgene.org.
About Iroquois Healthcare Association:
Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA) is a regional health care trade organization representing 54 hospitals and health systems, spanning over 28,000 square miles, across 32 counties of Upstate New York. IHA is the leading resource for facilities and professionals bringing quality health care to the region. IHA represents the unique needs of rural, small community safety-net providers to large, academic medical centers in Upstate New York’s urban areas through advocacy, education and information, cost-savings initiatives and innovative business solutions.
About Excelsior University:
Excelsior University is an accredited, not-for-profit online institution focused on helping adults complete their degrees and advance their careers. Excelsior contributes to the development of a diverse, educated, and career-ready society by valuing lifelong learning with an emphasis on serving individuals historically underrepresented in higher education. Founded in 1971, Excelsior meets students where they are — academically and geographically — removing obstacles to the educational goals of adults pursuing continuing education and degree completion. Our pillars include innovation, flexibility, academic excellence, and integrity.
