In 1991-92, Napa Valley College participated in a statewide project to develop and publish this guide for recruiting and retaining underrepresented groups and special populations in vocational nursing. Among the highlighted recommendations presented in the guide are the following: (1) disseminate information on nursing education and job opportunities to special populations at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, providing profiles of and access to role models from these populations; (2) provide information on and access to financial aid and support services, such as child care, tutoring, and skills centers; (3) develop a statement describing proficiencies required for success; (4) help enrolled nursing students develop self-esteem, personal motivation, and effective study, self-improvement, and life skills; (5) ensure basic competency in math, English, and critical thinking; (6) provide enrolled students with access to support groups, study groups, "buddy system" programs with peers, support services, and adequate time to study; (7) ensure adequate financial support; (8) develop a stated program philosophy reflecting the commitment of faculty to working with special population students; (9) provide appropriate assessment, testing, and referral services for students; (10) continually assess the relevancy of admission, curriculum, and graduation requirements; (11) develop learning materials, teaching strategies, and evaluation procedures appropriate to the special needs of students, and provide related staff development activities; (12) model cultural diversity throughout the curriculum, on the Advisory Committee, and within the faculty; and (13) develop job placement opportunities for graduates. Ten references and "Creating Success for Students in the Nursing Program: Shifting the Paradigm," by Ron Rhyno are attached. (JSP)