Published April 23, 2025
On Thursday, April 17, Jennifer Lix, Dodge City Community College (DC3) Director of Nursing and Allied Health, spoke at the Dodge City Lions Club Annual Banquet at the Senior Citizens Center in Dodge City. Lix spoke about DC3’s Nursing Program’s innovative, technology-driven, and evidence-based approach to preparing students for the evolving healthcare industry.
On Thursday, April 17, the Lions Club hosted its Annual Banquet at the Senior Citizens Center in Dodge City, where Jennifer Lix, Director of Nursing and Allied Health, was the featured speaker.
Lix spoke passionately about the Dodge City Community College (DC3) Nursing Program, spotlighting the program’s innovative approach to preparing students for the rapidly evolving healthcare industry. Her address provided the audience with a compelling look at how DC3 is adapting to new challenges in nursing education through advanced teaching methodologies, cutting-edge technology, and a strong focus on real-world readiness.
The evening also featured a meaningful moment of recognition, as the Lions Club awarded scholarships to several local students, including one from DC3. Nursing student Martin Sanchez was presented with a $500 scholarship presented by Richard Roenfeldt, president of the Dodge City Lions Club. This scholarship reflects the Lions Club’s continued commitment to empowering local youth through education and strengthens the connection between community service and academic achievement.
Lix, a seasoned nursing educator with more than 30 years of experience in the nursing field, highlighted the evolving landscape of nursing education and its vital role in healthcare. She emphasized her passion for shaping competent, skilled nurses who serve their communities.
As a director, her goal is to continue building a reputable nursing program that produces top-tier professionals. She stressed the importance of educators staying current and adapting to changes in the field, noting that “nurses are lifelong learners,” continually evolving alongside healthcare advancements.
A significant shift in nursing education, Lix explained, is the adoption of evidence-based teaching methods. The content being taught is “tested and tried and true” in clinical trials and studies, which ensures that students receive the most effective and relevant information. This approach also extends to teaching methodologies, which are designed to engage students cognitively and build strong critical thinking skills.
Active learning techniques, including tactile experiences and case-based discussions, are replacing traditional lectures. Tools such as mannequins, simulations, and real-world scenarios in the classroom help student nurses learn how to respond to situations effectively.
Lix said technology is also playing an increasingly important role in nursing education. Through funding from a Kansas nursing initiative grant, classrooms are now equipped with virtual reality headsets, allowing students to immerse themselves in simulated healthcare environments. These experiences promote teamwork, hands-on learning, and safe mistake-making—all crucial to developing well-rounded nurses. In addition, students learn to use electronic health records, gaining familiarity with documentation and clinical decision-making that mirrors real-world nursing duties.
Despite the advanced tools and simulations, Lix said that actual patient interaction remains irreplaceable. Students still participate in clinical rotations in local healthcare facilities in Dodge City and surrounding areas.
What resonates most with Lix, however, is seeing former students in action—competent, compassionate, and providing excellent care, which is something she recently experienced herself.
“Four nurses took care of me, with three of them being former students,” she said. “With our students, you are in great hands.”
By Alba Gutierrez-OrtizDC3 Marketing and Media Specialist
Photos by Alba Gutierrez-Ortiz
Pictured above (from left to right) are Evelyn Mejia, wife of Martin Sanchez; Martin Sanchez, sophomore, Dodge City; and Richard Roenfeldt, Lion’s Club President.