6/12/2026
ALTOONA, Pa. – UPMC Altoona recognized the opening of the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona with a symbolic ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in expanding access to nursing education and strengthening the pipeline of future health care professionals in the region.“At UPMC, we are committed to preparing the next generation of nurses through meaningful education and hands-on experience,” said Maribeth McLaughlin, chief nurse executive and vice president, patient care services, UPMC. “By bringing the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing to UPMC Altoona, we are opening doors for individuals in this community and surrounding areas to pursue careers in nursing and strengthen the future of health care for the patients and families we serve.”
The UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona is a 16-month diploma program for those interested in becoming a registered nurse (R.N.). While enrolled in the nursing program, students will complete over 900 hours of clinical rotations at UPMC Altoona and 21 credits in science and humanities in partnership with Saint Francis University. Once students graduate and pass the RN licensing examination, they will be well-positioned to earn their bachelor's degree in nursing from Saint Francis University while maintaining full-time employment.
“When I think about nursing, I think about the moments where a nurse shows compassion, provides reassurance and supports patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments,” said Kitty Zelnosky, chief nursing officer and vice president, patient care services, UPMC in west central Pa. and Maryland. “With the opening of our new school, we’re creating a place where students will not only learn the science of nursing but what it truly means to care for others.”
The new branch campus creates a local, affordable pathway for those interested in a career in nursing. Beginning in August, the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing will welcome up to 102 students for its inaugural class.
“Very soon, this school will be filled with students who have chosen to pursue a career in nursing and are ready to take that first step,” said Jennifer Kowalkowski, director, UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona. “Here, they will not only grow in their knowledge and clinical skills, but in their ability to lead with compassion, advocate for their patients and one day, make a difference in the lives they touch as nurses.”
The UPMC Mercy School of Nursing at UPMC Altoona is part of UPMC’s network of eight hospital-based nursing schools dedicated to educating and training future nurses.
For more information about the UPMC Mercy School of Nursing, visit UPMC.com/SON. If you have any questions about the program, call 412-232-7205 or email upmcaltson@upmc.edu.
