DALTON, Ga. (February 28, 2025) – Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) recently hosted its student symposium for nursing students across the region. The event has been held twice a year since 2016.
Approximately 50 RN and LPN students from Dalton State College attended.

The event included sessions on interviewing skills presented by Judean Guinn, chief nursing officer; mental health and wellness by Rachel Houghton, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for Hamilton; open-heart surgery and case study (pre-recorded) facilitated by cardiovascular team members; nursing nutrition by Abigail Presnell, registered dietitian for HMC; healthcare communication by Susan Osborne, director of Patient Experience; career development by Brandon Burge, director of Organizational and Clinical Development; and a nursing panel. Students also had networking opportunities with directors, managers and educators of nursing at the facility during several breakout sessions.
The event is designed to assist upcoming nursing graduates in successfully pursuing their career goals in healthcare.
“As nursing leaders, we always enjoy the opportunity to partner with local nursing schools in supporting the future of nursing,” said Madison Mills, director of Surgical Services. “We specifically enjoy giving nursing students practical ways to transition from being a student to a nurse. Our hope is to help students build long lasting relationships with fellow colleagues and necessary skills to ensure their future success in healthcare.”