Spokane Community College’s (SCC) Nursing program is guided by faculty who know firsthand the challenges and rewards of the profession. Associate Dean of Nursing Cheri Osler has spent the past decade leading SCC’s nursing program, and this year was the recipient of the Washington State Nurses Association Nurse Educator Award recognizing her achievements over 37 years as a nurse and nursing educator.
Cheri’s decision to move from nursing practice into teaching began with a personal experience as a student. “When I was earning my associate degree in nursing at Shoreline Community College in 1986, I had a psychiatric nursing instructor named Betsy who truly stood out,” Osler says. “At that time, most of us were intimidated by our instructors and afraid of making mistakes. But Betsy was different—she was kind, compassionate, and approachable. We could ask her anything without fear of judgment, and her enthusiasm for teaching and psychiatric nursing made learning both engaging and meaningful.”
That model of kindness and mentorship continues to shape Osler’s approach with today’s SCC students. “What I enjoy most about working with community college nursing students is their determination and resilience. Many of them are balancing school with work, family, and other responsibilities, yet they bring such passion to their learning. Community college was life-changing for me—it opened doors that shaped my career and gave me opportunities I never imagined.”
She emphasizes that success is not always straightforward and that setbacks can be part of the journey. Osler recalls one student who initially failed her psychiatric nursing theory course. “She was hardworking, kind, and compassionate—someone I knew had the qualities to be an excellent nurse. At the time, she felt defeated and considered leaving nursing altogether. I had several conversations with her, encouraging her not to give up and reminding her that sometimes our failures are what make us stronger and better nurses.” That student later returned, graduated, and is now an ICU nurse.
SCC’s program prepares students through a blend of labs, simulations, and clinical experiences. “We make sure our graduates are ready to step into the workforce with confidence by building everything we do on a foundation of best practices and evidence-based practice,” Osler explains. “Beyond technical skills, we emphasize teamwork, communication, and resilience, because we know those qualities are just as essential for success in healthcare.”
The program’s impact is visible across Spokane. “About 99% of our graduates stay right here in Spokane, which is something we’re very proud of,” Osler says. “Most go on to work in local hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities, and many of our clinical partners tell us they value SCC nursing students because they know our graduates are likely to become part of their workforce.”
For students considering nursing but unsure if they have what it takes, Osler offers clear advice: “My advice to someone considering a career in nursing is to go for it—because nursing is one of the most rewarding and impactful careers you can choose. The sky truly is the limit.”
At Spokane Community College, that encouragement is built into the program. With dedicated faculty like Cheri Osler, students can expect not just rigorous preparation, but mentorship that helps them see their own potential.