On March 26, Olympic College President Marty Cavalluzzi, Ph.D., received the annual Economic Champion Award from the Kitsap Economic Development Alliance (KEDA). He was recognized for his leadership in expanding access to healthcare education at the college’s Bremerton and Poulsbo campuses.
In December 2023, Olympic College announced an ambitious plan to add up to five new academic programs and remodel the Poulsbo Campus into a hub for healthcare education. The expansion is made possible through generous contributions, including $6 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the Kitsap County Commissioners, $2.5 million from Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH), and a $200,000 annual grant secured by State Representative Greg Nance of the 23rd Legislative District.
OC Dean of Nursing & Allied Health, Dr. Alecia Nye, is leading program development. Under her leadership, the college has launched or proposed the following programs:
Corpsman/Medic to Practical Nurse: Launched Summer 2024
Phlebotomy: Launched Summer 2024
Surgical Technologist: Launching Winter 2025
Radiologic Technology: Launching Spring 2025
Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Program proposal under review
All five programs are currently accepting applications for Fall 2025.
Cavalluzzi received the Economic Champion Award at KEDA’s annual meeting, where 280 business and community leaders gathered to explore key factors shaping Kitsap’s economic future.
“This is a group effort. This project will bring approximately 700 students a year to our Poulsbo Campus, working toward high-wage, high-demand careers in healthcare—careers that every person in this room will need. We all need healthcare,” Cavalluzzi said.
He also thanked Poulsbo Mayor Becky Erickson and Deputy Mayor Ed Stern for their support and advocacy.
Phase 1 of the expansion is scheduled for completion in September 2025. Phase 2 includes the construction of a new building, which could house additional programs in Dental Hygiene, Dental Assisting, Paramedic, Emergency Medical Technician, and Respiratory Therapy.
Visit the OC Healthcare Expansion Project webpage for the latest news and information about this exciting effort to address a national need at the local level.