In May 1996, several graduating students met with the Dean of the College of Nursing and the Director of the Testing Center to explore the possibility of a peer mentor program in the College of Nursing. A pilot peer mentor program was initiated in the Fall of 1996.

In Spring of 1997, after a successful year of mentoring, three faculty, Dr. Priscilla Ramsey, Dr. Sally Blowers, and Ms. Carolyn Merriman decided to expand the current mentor program into a broader student support service which encompassed peer mentoring, peer tutoring, and the establishment of a dedicated student study area.

A grant from the Division of Nursing Bureau of Health Professions and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), was secured to establish a stronger peer mentor program, a formal peer tutor program, and the Nickels N.U.R.S.E. Center.

In July 2001, a grant was received, “Community Partnerships for LPN to BSN Career Mobility” from the Division of Nursing Bureau. This project is designed specifically to help Licensed Practical Nurses seek a BSN degree while continuing to work. This special project includes assistance from community health care agencies that pay full or part tuition and guarantee time off to attend class.

In 2004 the N.U.R.S.E. Center received a three year grant from the Johnson & Johnson Company entitled "Promoting LPN-Student Articulation from the Tennessee Technology Center (Elizabethton) to the BSN program at East Tennessee State University". This project was expanded in 2006 to include Tennessee Technology Centers in Morristown, Kingsport, Greeneville, and Bristol. The grant "Collaboration with Tennessee Technology Centers for LPN to BSN Career Advancement," was funded by the Division of Nursing (HRSA).

On August 15, 2006 the N.U.R.S.E. Center was named in honor of Beverly J. Nickels, a friend, benefactor, and former faculty member of East Tennessee State University College of Nursing. The Nickels N.U.R.S.E. Center is committed to the academic success of ETSU nursing students.

| History | Mentor Program | Tutor Program | LPN-BSN Career Advancement Project |