BRADENTON, FL (Oct. 21, 2025)—The Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS) at St. Petersburg College, in partnership with State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, presented a panel discussion about the challenges and opportunities of the Florida nursing profession. Leaders in nursing education, health care administration and workforce policy attended the event on Sep. 19 at SCF Lakewood Ranch.

Tammy Sawmelle, Ph.D., dean of nursing and education, SCF, moderated the discussion, titled “The Nursing Workforce Dilemma in Florida – Part II: From Classroom to Career.” Panelists were Louisana Louis, DNP, chairperson of the board of directors, Florida Center for Nursing, Stephannie Sharp, director of nursing operations, Orlando Health – Bayfront Hospital, and Judy Young, chief nursing officer, Manatee Memorial Hospital.

The dialogue focused on strategies to bridge the gap between academic preparation and clinical practice, strengthen nurse retention and build sustainable solutions for the state’s growing health care needs. The panelists introduced innovative approaches for supporting new nurses as they transition from school into long-term careers, and addressed job burnout, staffing shortages and patient-centered care.

Energized by the discussion, Sawmelle shared, “It was an honor to moderate this important conversation and witness the depth of insight and collaboration among our participants. Events like this reaffirm SCF’s commitment to bringing together diverse voices to spark innovation, strengthen our community and inspire the next generation of leaders.”

The event was part of ISPS’s health care workforce series. ISPS serves the Florida College System by providing public policy programs to advance academic excellence, community engagement, economic vitality and public understanding.

Learn more about SCF’s nursing programs and nursing career paths at SCF.edu.

Photo caption: Tammy Sawmelle, Ph.D., dean of nursing and education, SCF, Judy Young, chief nursing officer, Manatee Memorial Hospital, Louisana Louis, DNP, chairperson of the board of directors, Florida Center for Nursing, and Stephannie Sharp, director of nursing operations, Orlando Health – Bayfront Hospital, participate in the ISPS nursing workforce panel discussion at SCF Lakewood Ranch.