(DES MOINES, Iowa) — At a time when Iowa and the nation face critical healthcare workforce shortages, Mercy College of Health Sciences is recognizing the next generation of professionals stepping forward to serve.

On Thursday, Feb. 5, Mercy College hosted its official College Signing Day, welcoming 47 prospective students who formally signed letters of intent to pursue careers in the health sciences. The event celebrated not only their academic achievements but also their commitment to entering professions essential to the health and well-being of communities across Iowa.

“Signing Day has traditionally been reserved for athletics,” said Mercy College President, Dr. Adreain Henry, OD, EdD, MBA. “We believe students who commit themselves to healthcare careers deserve the same recognition. These students are choosing service to others at a moment when our state and our healthcare systems need them more than ever.”

National Signing Day began in 1981 as a milestone for student-athletes declaring their collegiate commitments. Mercy College has reimagined the tradition to honor students who intend to pursue healthcare careers, recognizing the rigor, dedication, and purpose required to enter the profession. The event concluded with a celebratory reception, marking the beginning of each student’s path toward a healthcare profession grounded in compassion, skill, and service.

Students interested in pursuing a healthcare career at Mercy College of Health Sciences are encouraged to CHART YOUR COURSE and apply online at MCHS.edu/apply.

About Mercy College of Health Sciences

Mercy College of Health Sciences is a health sciences specialty school rooted in the Catholic heritage of the Sisters of Mercy. Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, Mercy College offers master’s, bachelor’s, and associate degrees, certificates, and continuing education courses. Through our unique hands-on learning, unparalleled clinical rotations, and accelerated education offerings, our students are prepared to enter the workforce quickly with the critical skills necessary to make an immediate impact in their chosen healthcare careers. Guided by our Core Values of Knowledge, Reverence, Integrity, Compassion, and Excellence, Mercy College has been transforming students into successful healthcare professionals for over 120 years.