Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional and Stockton University announced on April 14 the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will create an academic-clinical partnership aimed at expanding educational opportunities for nurses in southern New Jersey.
The collaboration is intended to address the growing need for skilled nursing professionals in the region by offering new pathways for Cooper team members to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees at Stockton, including a 20% tuition discount per credit. The agreement also focuses on workforce development, career advancement, and long-term recruitment and retention of nurses.
George E. Norcross III, chairman of Cooper University Health Care, said, “As the leading academic health system in the region, educating the next generation of medical professionals is an integral part of our mission. Partnering with Stockton University, we are investing in the future of nursing and the health care workforce in the Jersey shore communities we serve.”
Stockton University President Joe Bertolino said, “At Stockton, our mission is rooted in service to our region. This partnership with Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional strengthens that commitment by opening doors for aspiring and current health care professionals while directly supporting the health and well-being of our local communities.”
Kathy Devine, DrNP, RN, NEA-BC, senior vice president and chief nursing executive for Cooper University Health Care said: “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to investing in our workforce and ensuring high-quality patient care for the communities we serve. By making advanced education more accessible and affordable, we are strengthening both our team members and the future of health care in Cape May County and southern New Jersey.”
The MOU formalizes cooperation between education providers across clinical practice areas as well as workforce development initiatives. In addition to tuition discounts for eligible employees who meet standard admission requirements at Stockton (and remain responsible for fees), both institutions will explore developing new certificates or graduate programs tailored to evolving needs. Michael Palladino from Stockton said this aligns their academic mission with critical regional needs while expanding access to quality nursing education.
Anthony Mazzarelli MD JD MBE from Cooper added: “Creating clear pathways for professional growth helps ensure we continue to deliver exceptional care while developing the next generation of nursing leaders.” Kevin O’Dowd JD from Cooper emphasized increasing well-trained nurses as a key goal: “We are very proud to partner with Stockton University … The driving force behind this new partnership is our common desire to increase the number of well-trained nurses who will provide care for local residents.” Jacqueline Arnone PhD PMHNP-BC from Stockton highlighted how hands-on learning experiences would be strengthened through this collaboration.
Stockton offers several healthcare degrees including Bachelor’s (traditional/accelerated), Master’s degrees in Nursing as well as Doctorate options; students gain experience via simulation labs or placements throughout New Jersey. Cooper supports professional development through tuition reimbursement programs.
Together both organizations aim to build a sustainable pipeline preparing nurses now—and into—the future.
