Trocaire College and Mount Mercy Academy have signed an agreement that will allow Mercy junior and senior high school students the opportunity to jump start their college experience and earn college credits while still attending high school.  This new partnership builds upon previous collaborative efforts between the two institutions, both of which are Sisters of Mercy ministries.

Trocaire College academic programs included in this pilot program are: practical nursing, health information technology, medical assistant, nutrition & dietetics and massage therapy.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for neighboring educational institutions to collaborate on a joint venture," noted Dr. Bassam M. Deeb, Trocaire College president.  "We are pleased to offer courses leading to a college certificate or degree to qualified Mt. Mercy Academy students."

The initial pilot program will be limited to 20 participants and these students will have the opportunity to attend college-level courses currently offered at Mount Mercy Academy as well as classroom and online courses taught by Trocaire College faculty. Upon completion of their high school diploma, participants in this program will receive tuition discounts and preferential college enrollment to Trocaire for the programs included in this partnership.

Marketing of this new venture and identification of those students who will participate in this program will take place over the next several months. Mount Mercy students will begin their college classes with the Summer 2014 semester.

"We are very excited about this initiative in partnership with Trocaire College," says Sister Mary Ellen Twist, President of Mount Mercy Academy. "The pilot program provides a continuum of opportunities for our students on their way toward careers. So many girls are considering healthcare careers and are eager to take advantage of our  supportive relationships with the Mercy ministries of Trocaire College and Mercy Hospital, both of which are right on our block."

This new partnership maximizes the use of resources and opportunities through a variety of innovative approaches. Trocaire College and Mt. Mercy Academy will meet regularly to review partnership roles, responsibilities, and opportunities for expanding their partnership.