EQUIPPING FUTURE NURSES TO SUCCEED In 2021, after 38 years of service, Mark Klimek retired, having impacted thousands of Cedarville University nursing students. In his retirement, however, he is continuing to impact countless students from all across the country. During his time at Cedarville, Klimek became known nationally for his National Council Licensure E x ami n a t i on (NCL EX ) r e v i ew resources. The NCLEX is the national examination for the licensing of nurses in the United States, implemented in 1982. He started small in 1986 by inviting students to review material and learn how to take the exam. Within a couple of years, Klimek had 30–40 students who wanted to meet with him in larger groups. He started writing materials for students to study, which led to two published books on the subject. His business grew by word of mouth, and he now has 2,300 to 2,500 students a year who take his seminars in locations across the country. at Cedarville is that it is grounded in God’s Word. When we first developed the school philosophy and mission, we threw out the secularly tainted definitions of core nursing concepts such as human, illness, wellness, care, life, and suffering and defined them biblically. That foundation is singularly distinguishing even within other evangelical schools. JC: Additionally, the B.S.N. degree was identified as stronger preparation than other nursing degrees. Many hospitals and clinics in the local area are eager to employ Cedarville graduates and state they are the best nurses at their facility. Q: What are your favorite memories from your time at Cedarville? JC: I remember in the early days the very limited classroom and laboratory space for teaching students. Mark and I would often carry mannequins and supplies across the campus to be able to teach the students. MK: I remember carrying the life-sized simulation mannequins from a Founders Hall closet across campus to the old library, losing body parts all along the sidewalk. JC: But my best memories are of the many relationships with students and faculty. I often meet or hear from a graduate and recall the times in class and clinicals with them. It is my joy to hear about what they are doing in using nursing as a ministry in their lives. Q: What are your hopes and prayers for the Cedarville School of Nursing for the next 40 years? JC: I pray that the nursing program will remain true to the biblical foundation upon which it was built. As the School of Nursing expands, it is vital to maintain the Bible courses, liberal arts foundation, and strong academic focus on nursing as a ministry for Jesus Christ. MK: I pray that the administration, faculty, and students never abandon the centrality of the Word of God and the Testimony of Jesus Christ. I pray that they will continue to see themselves as blessed servants who use nursing as a ministry for Christ. IA: Pray without ceasing. Keep focused on your mission. Trust God; He provides. Unlike unbelievers, Christian nurses have the power and comfort of the Holy Spirit to enable them to provide spiritual care, as well as physical care. Cedarville Magazine | 7
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM4ODY=