With funds provided by the State of Washington, Tacoma Community College’s Corporate Education department will provide onsite leadership training for employees of Columbia Bank and Franciscan Health System as part of a larger leadership development initiative underway at both organizations.

The state awarded a $47,000 grant to provide a front-line leadership training program for aspiring managers at Columbia Bank. The program, which began Sept. 8, and runs through June 2010, will train 34 employees who are also matched with company mentors to support their professional development.

“We are excited to receive this grant award from the State of Washington and look forward to working with TCC. Our employees will benefit greatly from the development opportunity provided by this program,” said Michael J. Nelson, vice president, director of training and education at Columbia Bank.

Franciscan Health System, which includes St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma and four other hospitals and a network of clinics in Pierce, King and Kitsap counties, will benefit from a $64,700 grant for leadership training. Starting in October 2009 and ending in June 2010, the program will train 50 Franciscan clinical employees with the potential to advance to leadership roles within the non-profit organization. Ongoing development of the clinical staff is important to providing evidence-based, compassionate care.

“Quality clinical leadership is a key to our organization’s ability to continue in its premier role as an integral part of the community’s health care safety net,” says Laurie Brown, vice president and chief nursing officer for the 7,500-employee Franciscan Health System. “Our organization, our staff and the patients who entrust their care to us will benefit from the leadership training opportunities supported by this grant. We also welcome the chance to work with Tacoma Community College as we prepare for the future.”