Two Lake Land College nursing instructors are being recognized at the state level for their innovation and dedication to nursing education.
Lara Lash of Mason and Bethany Workman of Dieterich have been awarded the Illinois Board of Higher Education’s Nurse Educator Fellowship, a competitive honor given to outstanding nursing instructors across Illinois.
Lash received the fellowship for the Fall 2025 semester for her work introducing obstetric, or OB, escape room simulations for associate degree nursing students. The hands-on activities challenge students to complete complex nursing tasks, apply classroom concepts, and think critically in a fast-paced, real-world setting—while still learning in a safe and controlled environment.
Workman received the fellowship for the Spring 2026 semester for developing a comprehensive student success program aimed at supporting rural and first-generation nursing students. The program focuses on improving retention, confidence, and academic performance through mentorship, peer support, and success workshops—addressing challenges such as limited access to resources across Lake Land’s large service district.
Cassie Porter, Lake Land’s Director of Nursing Programs, says the recognition is well deserved.
“Lara and Bethany serve our students with excellence every day, and it’s an honor to see them recognized for their passion and innovation,” Porter said.
The IBHE Nurse Educator Fellowship program is designed to retain highly qualified nursing faculty across the state. This year, the program awarded 800-thousand dollars in fellowship funding to support professional development for nursing instructors throughout Illinois.
More information on nursing programs at Lake Land College is available on the college’s website.
