From Classroom to Care: Regional Partners Build Local Healthcare Workforce
Early College Health Programs Solve Upstate Workforce Challenges
Clifton Park, N.Y. — [February 23, 2026] — Healthcare, education, and community partners across Upstate New York are advancing a coordinated regional solution to healthcare workforce shortages by expanding Early College High School (ECHS) Health Sciences programs. These programs prepare local students to live, learn, and work in the communities where they grew up.
With renewed support from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for the 2026 grant cycle, the Iroquois Healthcare Association (IHA) Healthcare Educational Consortium will operate three pilot sites across the region, including two continuing sites launched in 2025 – Franklin County and Tompkins County – and one newly added site to be determined. This expansion reflects a shared regional strategy focused on long-term workforce sustainability, local economic investment, and talent retention.
“Our grantee partners are navigating an incredibly challenging landscape, and yet their commitment to serving their communities continues to deepen. These grants demonstrate our resolve to stand with them by addressing urgent needs today, while strengthening the systems and workforce that will support New Yorkers’ health for years to come.” said Msgr. Gregory Mustaciuolo, Chief Executive Officer of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation.
The IHA Educational Consortium brings together hospitals, colleges, and school districts to create aligned regional pathways into high-demand healthcare careers. By coordinating education and workforce systems rather than operating in silos, the initiative strengthens the healthcare pipeline while keeping students connected to their home communities.
Building the Workforce — and the Local Economy
The ECHS Health Sciences model allows students to earn college credit, gain clinical experience, and connect early with local healthcare employers. By reducing the cost and time required to enter healthcare careers, the program increases access while helping hospitals recruit and retain a skilled, local workforce.
Students participating in the program can:
- Earn college credits and credentials while still in high school
- Gain hands-on clinical experience with local healthcare providers
- Transition directly into healthcare jobs or postsecondary education aligned with regional workforce needs
- Stay in their home communities—supporting local hospitals, families, and economies
“This is a regional workforce solution with long-term economic impact,” said Eileen Murphy, Senior Director of Special Projects for Iroquois Healthcare Association. “When students start their education early, train locally, and see clear career opportunities close to home, they’re far more likely to stay, work, and build their lives in the communities that invested in them. That stability benefits hospitals and strengthens the local economy.”
A Regional Response to a Regional Challenge
Healthcare workforce shortages continue to affect hospitals throughout Upstate New York, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The Healthcare Educational Consortium addresses this challenge by aligning regional education assets with employer demand, creating a scalable, sustainable pipeline rooted in local communities.
“Rural hospitals can’t compete with urban centers on salary alone, but we can offer something equally powerful: the chance to build a career close to home,” said Kevin M. Kerwin, Esq. President and CEO Iroquois Healthcare Association. “By partnering across counties and sectors, we’re creating pathways that didn’t exist before—showing students that meaningful healthcare careers are possible right here. This isn’t just about filling positions; it’s about building a sustainable workforce that understands and is committed to the communities they serve.”
As the Consortium enters its second year with an expanded footprint, partners remain focused on scaling a proven regional model – one that supports students, strengthens hospitals, and drives long-term economic stability across Upstate New York.
About the Iroquois Healthcare Association: IHA is a regional healthcare trade organization representing more than 50 hospitals and health systems, spanning over 28,000 square miles, across 32 counties of Upstate New York. IHA is the leading resource for facilities and professionals bringing quality health care to the region. IHA represents the unique needs of rural, small community safety-net providers to large, academic medical centers in Upstate New York’s urban areas through advocacy, education and information, cost-saving initiatives and innovative business solutions.
About the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation: The MCHF is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of New Yorkers, bolster the health outcomes of vulnerable communities, eliminate barriers to care, and bridge gaps in health services. Named after a tireless advocate for immigrants, children, and the poor, the Foundation funds programs and initiatives across New York State that provide either direct healthcare services or address the social determinants of health.