Redlands Community College is pleased to announce the appointment of Tara Thomas as the new director of Nursing and Allied Health. Thomas brings over two decades of nursing education leadership and clinical expertise to her new role, where she will oversee the college's nursing program transformation to better align with current workforce needs.
Thomas most recently served as practical nursing director at Northwest Technology Center in Alva, where she directed concept-based practical nursing curriculum, supervised instructors and students, and managed program budgets and industry partnerships. Her extensive background includes eight years as a nursing director and instructor, along with clinical experience spanning critical care, wound care specialty, and home health services.
"We are thrilled to welcome Tara Thomas to Redlands," said President Jena Marr. "Her proven track record in nursing program development and commitment to student success and innovative teaching methods, combined with her deep understanding of health care workforce needs, makes her the ideal leader to guide our nursing program's evolution."
The nursing program adjustments under Thomas's leadership will focus on aligning curriculum and training methods with current healthcare industry demands, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for immediate workforce integration while maintaining the highest standards of nursing education.
Thomas holds a Master of Nursing in Nursing Education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and a Master of Education in Professional Health Occupations from the University of Central Oklahoma. She maintains multiple certifications including Trauma Nurse Core Certification and Emergency Nurse Pediatric Course certification, and has been recognized with numerous awards including Oklahoma Career and Technology New Teacher of the Year and ACTE National Career and Technology Teacher of the Year Region IV Representative.
"I am excited to join Redlands Community College and contribute to building a nursing program that truly serves our rural communities," said Thomas. "My passion lies in creating educational environments that foster both academic excellence and practical skills development. I look forward to working with faculty, students and community partners to develop innovative programs that prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals for the challenges and opportunities in today's health care landscape."
Throughout her career, Thomas has demonstrated expertise in curriculum development, budget management, program accreditation and clinical coordination. She has maintained active memberships in professional organizations including the Association of Career and Technical Education, Health Occupations Students of America, and the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurse Society.
For more information about the Redlands Nursing Program, visit www.redlandscc.edu/academics/programs/nursing.