For Immediate Release
October 11, 2024

Suffolk County Community College Renames Nursing School in Honor of Jane F. Shearer

Pictured in the first group photo are (left to right): John Vidovich (Jane's brother); Mary Lou Araneo, College Vice President for Institutional Advancement; Laurie Vidovich (Jane's sister-in-law); Doug Shearer (Jane's husband); Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine; College President Dr. Edward Bonahue; and College Dean of Nursing Dr. Cheryl Shaffer. Second photo includes Suffolk County Community College nursing students in front of the new college signage. Hi-res photos available at: https://photos.app.goo.gl/iAGhdvvEXY8Rgmsj6

Suffolk County Community College proudly announced the renaming of its nursing school to the Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing, honoring the memory of Jane F. Shearer, who dedicated over 30 years of exemplary service to the college. Jane, who served as the Eastern Campus Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and President of the Guild of Administrative Officers, passed away from cancer in 2019.

Jane long appreciated the vital role that nurses play both locally and globally. Upon her passing, her generous and loving family chose to endow a scholarship to support nursing students in perpetuity at the college. To further their commitment, the family subsequently decided to share her name in memoriam by establishing the Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing at Suffolk County Community College.

“Naming an academic program or campus space for an individual or an organization is a meaningful way to signify a valued connection between the namesake and the college” said Dr. Edward Bonahue, President of Suffolk County Community College. “Jane’s passion for education and her unwavering support for our students will continue to inspire future generations of nursing leaders. The college community is grateful to the entire Shearer and Vidovich families.”

“Suffolk meant so much to Jane, and Jane meant so much to so many people,” said John Vidovich, Jane’s brother. “This naming gift will further Jane’s legacy and help to foster future generations of nursing students.”

The college’s Foundation recently hosted the First Annual Jane F. Shearer School of Nursing Luncheon at the Watermill in Smithtown. During the program, the family announced that proceeds from the event will help defray the costs associated with paying for the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX), which is needed in order to become a registered nurse (RN) or licensed practical nurse (LPN) in New York. Many nursing students at Suffolk County Community College often balance multiple jobs to manage tuition costs, and this final exam fee poses a significant financial hurdle.

Honorary luncheon chair, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, stated that tomorrow is not promised to anyone. "Jane's family has made a remarkable gift that will ensure the quality of healthcare being delivered across Suffolk County will always be of the highest quality. Ongoing excellence in the education of tomorrow's nurse leaders is assured through this gift."

About Suffolk County Community College

Suffolk County Community College is the largest, most comprehensive community college in the State University of New York (SUNY) system, enrolling more than 21,000 students in over 100 degree and certificate programs. With over 145,000 alumni, Suffolk County Community College is dedicated to meeting the demands of regional employers. The college has built an extensive track record of successfully training and educating its students through pathways from high school, to college, and into careers.

The Suffolk Community College Foundation
Suffolk Community College Foundation’s mission is to support student access to quality education and workforce training by providing scholarships, emergency student loans and funding for program development. The Foundation awards hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships each year. Additionally, the Foundation seeks to engage alumni to maintain their connection to the college, to support foundation events, philanthropy, student mentorship and internship opportunities.

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