Rennegarbe Recognized for Commitment to Rural Nursing
Lebanon, Ill. — Dr. Richelle Rennegarbe, associate professor of nursing, and division
chair of the McKendree University School of Nursing, has received the Illinois Critical Access Hospital Network’s (ICAHN) Service Award
for her role in the development and enhancement of rural nursing.
She was recognized for her leadership and contribution to the expansion of a new 12-month
nurse residency program specially designed for critical access and rural hospitals.
SOAR-RN (Supporting Onboarding and Retention of Rural Nurses) is a new evidence-based,
customized rural nurse residency program that provides rural organizations with the
tools they need to help new nurses acquire the knowledge and skills to deliver safe
care confidently. ICAHN received a grant to expand the program to central and southern
Illinois.
"We recognize Dr. Rennegarbe for her commitment to rural nursing and success of new
nurses, as well as for serving as our vital partner in developing the Southern SOAR-RN
Residency Program. She is a true inspiration and leader for the Illinois rural nursing
community," said Pat Schou, executive director of ICAHN.
Rennegarbe was the chief nursing officer and chief executive officer at Salem Township
Hospital from 2003 to 2009 and is well respected for her work as a rural hospital
leader.
Dr. Richelle Rennegarbe (right) accepted the ICAHN Service Award
from Mary Jane Clark, ICAHN SOAR-RN coordinator, at the
Critical Access Hospital Statewide Conference on Nov. 6 in Springfield, Ill.
