Campus News

Calhoun Community College’s Nursing Program welcomed more than 1,200 first-grade students from public and private elementary schools across Morgan and Limestone counties to participate in its annual Let’s Pretend Hospital, a hands-on learning experience held April 6–9, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day on the college’s Decatur campus.

According to Dr. Tiffany Bain, Calhoun’s Dean of Health Sciences, this is one of their most beloved traditions, as the event blends community outreach and interactive learning in a special and unforgettable way that is age-appropriate, helping children understand what happens during a hospital visit. Calhoun’s faculty and nursing students worked tirelessly for months to transform the college’s state-of-the-art Health Sciences Building into a vibrant “mock hospital.” The facility features a series of kid-friendly, hands-on hospital stations, including admissions, the emergency room, patient rooms, the operating room, X-ray, and discharge. Children also learn about germs, proper handwashing, and when to call 911. They even get to explore a real ambulance and hear the siren, one of the most anticipated moments of the event.

While designed for young learners, the program also serves as a valuable training experience for future healthcare professionals. “Let’s Pretend Hospital gives our nursing students a meaningful opportunity to step outside the classroom and bring their learning to life while serving the community,” said Dr. Stacy Powell, Calhoun’s Nursing Department Chair. “They get to practice explaining important healthcare concepts to young children in creative and engaging ways, helping build the confidence, compassion, and patient education skills they will use throughout their careers.”

“Let’s Pretend Hospital highlights the strength of Calhoun’s healthcare programs and the role our students play in supporting the health of our community,” said Dr. Tiffany Bain. “Through partnerships with hospitals like Decatur Morgan and Athens-Limestone, we are preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals while also providing young students with a fun, non-intimidating introduction to health and safety education.”

Calhoun is a leader in healthcare education in the region, offering programs in Associate Degree Nursing (RN), Practical Nursing (LPN), Dental Assisting, Dental Hygiene, Emergency Medical Services (EMT, AEMT, and Paramedic), Medical Laboratory Assistant, Medical Laboratory Technology, Physical Therapist Assistant, Respiratory Therapy, and Surgical Technology.

This event serves as a strong example of Calhoun’s mission in action, connecting education, community service, and workforce development while creating a lasting impact on both future healthcare professionals and the youngest members of the community.

To learn more about Calhoun’s Health Sciences Division, visit calhoun.edu/healthsciences.