The cost of a graduate nursing education is prohibitive for many qualified students from underrepresented minorities. Demographics throughout the nation are shifting and it is our responsibility to respond accordingly and ensure a workforce that mirrors society at large with professionals who are prepared to serve a diverse population.
A recent National Academy of Medicine report indicates an urgent need for the nursing profession to address workforce diversity deficits in an effort to eliminate health disparities among racial minorities and marginalized populations.
Dean Mary Kerr asked for our assistance in addressing this critical issue and in response we launched the FPB Leaders Scholarship Fund. We have assembled a national team of nursing leaders who have come together to leverage their resources and contacts to raise the $1.2 million necessary for the initiative. Through the FPB Leaders Scholarship Fund, we hope to bridge the gap and help eliminate the barriers to a graduate nursing education.
The FPB Leaders Scholarship Fund will provide
- Tuition to support qualified students
- Mentorship to ensure academic and professional success
- Leadership development to scholarship recipients
Recipients of the FPB Leaders Scholarship will obtain the formal education and professional coaching necessary to prepare them to serve as nurse leaders in their field of specialization.
Next Generation of Nurse Leaders
As healthcare continues to move toward an interprofessional team approach, there is an increased need for nurse leaders to advance nursing research, practice and advocacy. However, there is a lack of diversity among nurse leaders. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, nurse faculty and nurse executives are the least diverse groups. FPB is committed to developing the next generation of nurse leaders who will better understand and reflect the patients and communities they serve and act as beacons for cross-cultural understanding.
We Need Your Support
Our commitment to diversity will strengthen FPB’s legacy of excellence and service to the health of our local and global communities. Please join us in supporting the FPB Leaders Scholarship Fund. Contact Brigid Mercer at 216.368.6324 or brigid.mercer@case.edu to further discuss your financial investment in the next generation of FPB nurse leaders.
Sincerely yours,
May L. Wykle , PhD, RN, FAAN, FGSA
FPB Leaders Committee Co-Chair
Charlene Douglas, PhD, MPH, RN
FPB Leaders Committee Co-Chair