Illinois State University Nursing Graduates Achieve 100 Percent Pass Rate on Licensure Exam

Graduates of Mennonite College of Nursing at Illinois State University achieved a 100 percent pass rate on the national nursing licensure examination (NCLEX-RN) on the first try in 2009, exceeding the national and state averages.

The 101 students surpassed the nationwide NCLEX-RN pass rate of 88 percent and the State of Illinois pass rate of 91 percent. The high percentage of Mennonite graduates who pass the licensure exam the first time is due in a large part to the College's Success Plan. Under the leadership of faculty member Cathi Kaesberg, the Success Plan focuses on critical thinking, integration of theory with clinical practice and mastery in each course before progressing to the next. Mastery exams cover the specific subject matter included on the NCLEX-RN exam.

"This incredible outcome is attributable to our faculty's commitment, expertise, dedication, and teaching prowess in preparing future nurses," said Mennonite College of Nursing Dean Janet Krejci. "It also speaks to the willingness of staff to consistently strive for excellence in their support of faculty and students, as well as Cathi Kaesberg's unrelenting focus on student success in her coordination of the College Success Plan."

The pass rate also exemplifies Illinois State's Educating Illinois objective "demonstration ofexcellence in teaching and learning at the undergraduate level."

"The faculty at MCN are gifted educators and researchers who demonstrate their expertise in clinical, classroom and research settings," said Kaesberg. "The staff tenaciously supports the collegeinfrastructure which promotes college efficiency and organization. The students aretalented and hard working individuals who have dedicated themselves to lifelong learning."

The difficulty of the NCLEX-RN exam was increased in 2007 in response to changes in U.S. health care delivery and nursing practice. The increased standards are part of a three-year evaluation cycle for the NCLEX-RN exam to ensure that it continues to address current nursing standards. The passing standard will be raised again effective April 1, 2010.