FORT WAYNE, Ind.—In a bold step toward meeting the challenges of today’s dynamic healthcare landscape, the University of Saint Francis and Leffler Academy of Gas City, Indiana, are excited to announce a strategic partnership aimed at addressing the healthcare workforce needs across Indiana.
This collaboration is set to enhance educational programs and expand healthcare initiatives in nursing and allied health, creating new opportunities for students aspiring to healthcare careers and supporting Indiana’s healthcare providers in finding skilled professionals.
“Through this partnership, Saint Francis and Leffler Academy will establish comprehensive educational pathways in nursing and allied health, with offerings from certificate to doctoral programs,” said Saint Francis President Dr. Lance Richey. “Our shared goal is to prepare compassionate, skilled healthcare practitioners ready to navigate and meet the needs of a rapidly evolving healthcare environment.”
With the growing demand for healthcare professionals, Saint Francis and Leffler Academy recognize the urgent need for innovative solutions to equip the next generation of healthcare leaders. This partnership leverages the strengths of both institutions, combining Leffler Academy’s expertise in pre-licensure allied health certifications and accelerated Practical Nursing programs with Saint Francis’ legacy of excellence in nursing and allied health education and its extensive network of healthcare partnerships.
Anchored in a shared mission, this partnership will support students from diverse backgrounds in developing meaningful, service-oriented careers distinguished by integrity, compassion, and joy. By joining forces, Saint Francis and Leffler Academy are expanding their educational offerings, creating seamless pathways for students to achieve success in healthcare careers while emphasizing holistic formation.
“This partnership reflects our commitment not just to respond to the evolving needs of healthcare, but to actively shape its future by combining our resources and expertise,” said Leffler Academy CEO Dr. Amanda Leffler. “Together, we aim to provide a comprehensive educational experience that meets the immediate needs of our students and communities.”
For more information, contact Saint Francis Vice President for Healthcare Relations and Dean of the College of Health Sciences Dr. Angie Harrell at 260-399-7700, ext. 8309 or aharrell@sf.edu or Leffler Academy CEO Dr. Amanda Leffler at 765-573-4614, ext. 102 or aleffler@leffleracademy.org.
About Saint Francis: Founded in 1890 in the Catholic Franciscan tradition, the University of Saint Francis offers more than 60 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs through the College of Health Sciences and the College of Arts, Sciences, and Business. In addition to its traditional programs, Saint Francis designs focused curricula for working adults in Fort Wayne, Crown Point and online. USF Downtown houses the music technology program while offering enhanced internship and networking opportunities for students. The University of Saint Francis, recognized as an NAIA Five-Star Champion of Character institution, has 20 athletic programs boasting two individual and four team NAIA national championships. Approximately 1,800 students from a broad geographic region attend Saint Francis.
About Leffler Academy: Founded in 2019 by Dr. Amanda R. Leffler, DNP, RN, Leffler Academy offers 10 unique undergraduate programs through the School of Nursing and School of Health Sciences. Our mission at Leffler Academy is to empower learners of all backgrounds and life stages by providing inclusive, innovative educational opportunities that foster personal and professional growth through our commitment to creating a supportive environment where students can thrive, engage, and achieve their goals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-changing world. Leffler Academy has rapidly gained recognition as a top provider of quality education in nursing and health sciences thanks to its strong focus on student success. As Leffler Academy begins its next chapter, the faculty and staff are dedicated to continue to live their mission of ensuring each student feels supported through their educational journey.