Background: A health-care workforce that mirrors the identities of patients is critical for achieving positive outcomes. To support a highly qualified and diverse nursing workforce, the Caring for Our Own Program (CO-OP) aims to increase the enrollment and retention of Indigenous students in nursing programs. Poor retention rates for Tribal-college transfer students (35.9%) presented a barrier to success for students best placed to enhance the nursing workforce in Tribal communities. Methods: CO-OP piloted the Success Academy, a pre-entry immersion program for Tribal college transfer students, ahead of four consecutive semesters. This four-week immersion featured a holistic hybrid format to improve sense of place, financial security, academic readiness, and social connection. Results: Thirty students participated ahead of beginning upper division coursework. Twenty have progressed without delays, including seven who graduated on time and are pursuing licensure. Five participants were delayed by one semester to repeat one or more courses, one was delayed by two semesters, and four stepped away. Conclusion: Success Academy had a demonstrable long-term impact to improve college access and success for Indigenous nursing candidates most ideally placed to make lasting change on Indigenous health in the Western U.S.
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