Dr. Patrick Reinhard

ESCANABA — Bay College has welcomed an experienced nursing educator and higher education administrator to lead its Nursing and Allied Health programs to build on this high-quality curriculum and help ensure its students continue to succeed in the health care sector.

Dr. Patrick Reinhard comes to Bay College from San Joaquin Valley College in California, where he served as dean of the nursing program. Reinhard, a native of Michigan, earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Iowa and a master’s degree in nursing from Stanbridge University in California. He has a master’s degree in health administration and a doctorate from Central Michigan University.

“It is exciting to return to Michigan and join the incredible team at Bay College as we work together to educate the next generation of nurses and health care workers who will serve the U.P. and communities all across the state,” Reinhard said. “It is wonderful to be part of the renowned nursing program at Bay College that is known for its high-quality graduates who provide incredible care.”

Reinhard is a great addition to Bay College’s leadership team, said Dr. Nerita Hughes, president of Bay College.

“Through our conversations, Dr. Reinhard has shown himself to be a thoughtful leader who cares deeply about students as they start out in the health care field,” Hughes said. “We appreciate having his experience leading our top-notch program dedicated to preparing our students for lifelong success.”

Reinhard is playing a key role in continuing efforts to build on the successes of this program that produces in-demand nurses and health care workers.

He also is navigating the college’s efforts to resume its practical nursing programs at its campuses in Escanaba and Iron Mountain.

Th program at Bay College will pause admission for the fall 2025 semester. The college was among a handful across Michigan notified that it could not accept students for the fall 2025 semester due to requirements set out by the Michigan State Board of Nursing for that program. Bay College officials expect admission to the program will resume in 2026.