Cooper University Health Care recently announced a major achievement for its training programs: the Nurse Residency Program has received Accreditation with Distinction in the Practice Transition Accreditation Program (PTAP) from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).
This prestigious designation is the highest level of recognition offered by the ANCC and confirms that Cooper’s program exceeds rigorous national standards for education, support, and professional development in preparing newly licensed nurses for successful professional practice.
“This recognition is a powerful validation of the strength of our Nurse Residency Program and the extraordinary dedication of our nursing teams,” Kathleen Devine, DrNP, RN, NEA-BC, senior vice president and chief nursing executive at Cooper University Health Care said. “Achieving PTAP Accreditation with Distinction reflects our deep commitment to supporting new nurses as they grow in confidence, competence, and compassion. When we invest in our nurses, we elevate the care we provide to every patient, every day.”
The accreditation enhances Cooper’s standing as a premier academic health system and strengthens its ability to attract and retain top nursing talent from across the nation.
Renee Cherfane, director of the Nurse Residency Program, emphasized the collaborative nature of the achievement.
“The PTAP accreditation is a badge of honor showcasing the time, energy, and dedication invested by every Cooper team member, both nursing and non-nursing professionals, who work tirelessly to support our new nurses,” she said.
Cooper is a leading academic health system affiliated with Cooper Medical School of Rowan University. It is headquartered in Camden, and operates three hospitals, including its 663-bed flagship Cooper University Hospital—South Jersey’s only Level 1 trauma center—and employs nearly 14,000 team members.


