It saddened me to learn of Va.'s block on Excelsior graduates. As a former Va. licensee and resident I am at a loss as to why the BON would do this. I have worked alongside many graduates of this program, and with more than 20 years experience, found no particular inferiority in them (or their skills).  I would urge the BON to reconsider this stance, as the need for well trained nurses increases, limiting options for those who wish to further their education and careers, should allow for routes other than the "traditional" classroom setting.