HICKORY, N.C.— Catawba Valley Community College is proud to announce that McKinsey Poarch, assistant CNA director and clinical coordinator for the CVCC Nursing Program, has been selected to participate in the National League for Nursing (NLN) LEAD program for 2026, a year-long leadership development initiative offered by the NLN Center for Transformational Leadership.  

The NLN LEAD Program is a highly selective professional development experience designed for nurses in education and practice who are transitioning into leadership roles or aspiring to enhance their leadership capacity. Participants engage in strategic leadership activities that include leadership assessment, executive coaching, intensive retreats and participation in the NLN Education Summit.   

 “Being selected for the NLN LEAD program highlights McKinsey’s growing strengths as a leader and the meaningful difference she’s already making in our CVCC nursing community,” states Robin Cornett, Dean of CVCC’s School of Health Education.  

Poarch’s participation in the 2026 NLN LEAD program highlights Catawba Valley Community College’s dedication to excellence and to developing academic nursing leaders who advance student success, strengthen the healthcare workforce, and make a strong impact on the Hickory Metro region. Dr. Brooke Kistler, Department Head, CVCC Nursing and LEAD Program alumni adds, “McKinsey’s selection reflects her strong commitment to leadership excellence, innovations in nursing education, and continued professional growth. I am thrilled to see her join this prestigious cohort.”