FSW School of Nursing Awarded State Funding to Expand Nursing Education

FEB. 10, 2026 – FORT MYERS, Fla. – Florida SouthWestern State College’s (FSW) School of Nursing has been awarded $238,914 in state funding through the Linking Industry to Nursing Education (LINE) program, an initiative supported by Gov. Ron DeSantis to expand nursing education across Florida.

The LINE and Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education (PIPELINE) programs provide funding for student scholarships, faculty recruitment, and enhanced simulation centers and equipment. Through these investments, colleges increase program capacity and prepare more students for in-demand nursing careers.

“This funding provides critical support for FSW’s nursing program and supports our commitment to continuous improvement and excellence,” said Susan Holland, dean of the School of Nursing. “By strengthening NCLEX preparation, expanding access to high-fidelity simulation technology, and creating meaningful professional development opportunities, we are better preparing our students to meet licensure standards and deliver high-quality patient care in our community.”

DeSantis awarded more than $20 million in LINE funding, providing $14.5 million to state colleges and private postsecondary institutions. FSW was among the institutions in Southwest Florida selected to receive funding.