Research College of Nursing Redesigns the Classroom Experience

Active Learning Classrooms, dedicated to memory of noted civic leader, philanthropist and Research College of Nursing Governing Board member Jeff Jernigan, geared to prepare students as clinical leaders in today's highly complex healthcare environment.

Kansas City, MO—Research College of Nursing (RCoN) recently unveiled two state-of-the-art Active Learning Classrooms (ALCs) to enhance students’ learning experiences by eliminating traditional lecture style content to encourage collaboration and critical thinking. Construction on the ALCs began in the summer of 2019 with the goal of completing the classrooms in time to welcome students for the fall semester.

The classrooms are dedicated to the memory of Jeffrey R. Jernigan, a high-profile Kansas City civic leader and philanthropist. Involved for 33 years with Research, Jernigan served as an Advisory Director and on the Board of Directors for The Research Foundation, the Research Medical Center Board and on the RCoN Governing Board where he held myriad leadership positions. He was actively involved as Chair of the RCoN Governing Board until his passing in January 2018. Outside his tenure of involvement with Research, Jernigan was also active with other local non-profit organizations and civic groups, including Turning Point, Girl Scouts, Epic and Rotary, among others.

“The Jeff Jernigan classrooms are an integral bridge to continuing RCoN’s legacy of excellence in nursing education” says Research College of Nursing President Thad R. Wilson, PhD, RN, FAAN, FAANP. “Our goal is to develop professional nurses who lead change and advance compassionate, high-quality healthcare for patients and their families. Honoring Jeff, whose spirit, dedication and commitment to the nursing profession was inspirational, is only appropriate.”

The redesigned ALCs feature eight learning pods and are equipped with interactive, high-definition monitors. New technology allows each student group to simultaneously work a variety of patient care situations, while instructors facilitate dynamic group discussions and encourage nursing students to take a more active role in their education.

“Jeff Jernigan dedicated nearly two decades of service to the Research College of Nursing Governing Board, sharing his extensive experience in business and finance and devoting time up until his death to help the college remain one of the best nursing programs in the region,” says Research College of Nursing Governing Board Chair Linda Clarkson. “Our students will benefit from his vision, passion and compassion for many years to come.”

For more information on RCoN and its acclaimed programs, visit researchcollege.edu.