Nursing Scholarship Fund Supports Nursing Education
At a staff nurse focus group meeting earlier this year, Ellen Downing, RN, a clinical documentation specialist, made a simple suggestion that would go a long way.
The group had been discussing the value of lifelong learning and the financial challenges of higher education. Downing suggested the group consider establishing a BWH Nursing Scholarship Fund that BWH nurses could benefit from and contribute to on a one-time basis or through a weekly payroll deduction. Downing committed to contributing the first donation, $1,000, and Jackie Somerville, PhD, RN, chief nursing officer and senior vice president of Patient Care Services, quickly offered a matching donation.
The fund will support scholarships for nurses working toward certifications or advanced degrees, benefiting multiple nurses per year.
"It is a shining example of the commitment nurses have to each other and to the importance of education, and the power of ideas generated when dedicated people come together," said Somerville.
Added Downing: "It's an opportunity to give back and pay it forward."
To learn more or to donate, visit bwhpikenotes.org/Patient_Family_Care/Nursing/NursingScholarshipFund.aspx.