Cornerstone University and Mary Free Bed Launch BSN Partnership
Cornerstone University is announcing a new partnership with Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, a top-rated rehabilitation hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to expand clinical experience, tuition assistance, and professional pathways for Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students at the university. Beginning fall 2026, the collaboration builds on Cornerstone University’s CCNE-accredited nursing program and aligns with the university’s focus on professional preparation and Christ-centered health care education.
Participating Cornerstone BSN students will have the opportunity to apply for tuition assistance provided through Mary Free Bed, gain enhanced clinical placements within its rehabilitative care environment, and pursue full-time nursing roles following successful completion of the BSN program and passage of the NCLEX-RN®.
“We are pleased to welcome Mary Free Bed as a partner in Cornerstone University’s nursing program,” said Dr. Misty Emmons, chief nursing administrator and director of nursing. “Mary Free Bed is known for excellent patient-centered care, and they also extend this quality commitment to their nursing staff. BSN students who receive a scholarship will receive the type of early career support that is critical to a successful transition from student nurse to registered nurse.”
Mary Free Bed is widely recognized for its leadership in rehabilitation and its patient-centered model across inpatient, outpatient, and specialized services. As a mission-driven health care organization, it offers a clinical environment where students engage in interdisciplinary care focused on recovery, dignity, and quality of life. Through this partnership, Cornerstone students will encounter rehabilitative nursing practices that emphasize clinical judgment, collaboration, and whole-person care.
“We’re excited to support Cornerstone nursing students as they develop into the next generation of compassionate caregivers,” said Maria Opoku‑Agyeman, Mary Free Bed chief nursing officer and vice president of inpatient services. “Together, we’re strengthening the nursing workforce and helping more people find hope and freedom through rehabilitation.”
Cornerstone’s BSN program provides a rigorous academic foundation supported by simulation and supervised clinical experiences. Accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE), the curriculum integrates evidence-based practice, leadership, communication, and decision-making skills, and a commitment to patient care within a Christ-centered framework. Graduates are prepared to sit for the NCLEX-RN® and pursue nursing roles across a range of health care settings.
Cornerstone’s nursing faculty combine academic and clinical expertise to support close mentorship, with both the 2024 and 2025 BSN cohorts achieving a 100% NCLEX-RN® pass rate.
“Preparing nurses of strong character and professional excellence is central to Cornerstone University’s academic mission and curriculum approach,” said Dr. Kevin S. Hall, vice president of academics and spiritual formation. “As workforce needs continue to grow, our partnership with Mary Free Bed expands clinical opportunities that prepare nurses to deliver exceptional, compassionate care to patients and communities.”
Together, Cornerstone University and Mary Free Bed are investing in the preparation of nurses equipped to serve patients, strengthen healthcare teams, and meet the evolving needs in West Michigan.
To learn more about Cornerstone University’s CCNE-accredited Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and this partnership, contact admissions@cornerstone.edu or 616.222.1426.Cornerstone University partners with Mary Free Bed to expand BSN clinical training, tuition support, and workforce pathways in rehabilitative care.
