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College of Nursing

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Graduate Scholarships

Explore scholarship opportunities specific to Advanced Practice and PhD students:

 

The following group of scholarships is open to students in all College of Nursing graduate programs:

Angela and Richard Strawn Nursing Endowed Scholarship

Angela (CON BSN ‘65) and Richard Strawn are longtime supporters of our nursing programs through philanthropy and advocacy. She served as an invaluable resource on the Alumni Board for many years. Angie's career in nursing spanned over 50 years, spent mostly in nursing higher education and administration of nursing education programs.

When deciding how to leave a lasting gift to College of Nursing, Angie wanted to provide fellowship assistance at the graduate level to nurses who desired to become future nursing faculty out of concern for the nursing faculty shortage.

Requirements

Prospective or matriculating graduate degree nursing students planning a career in nursing education. Preference will be given to highly motivated students who demonstrate financial need and are in good academic standing by possessing a minimum 3.5 grade point average.

 

Captain Sean Grimes Nursing Scholarship Fund

After graduating with a BSN from the Michigan State University College of Nursing in 1997, Cpt. Sean Grimes was commissioned in the Army Nurse Corps. He first served as a critical care and emergency room nurse in Germany, then as an assistant head nurse in Kosovo.  Grimes was ultimately deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom to treat soldiers wounded in combat. He volunteered for more than 80 patrols and raids. Grimes was known for his unwavering dedication to caring for soldiers.

Tragically, one week before his scheduled return home, Grimes’ life was cut short by an improvised explosive device during a combat patrol in Ar Ramadi, Iraq on March 4, 2005. He was the first U.S. military Physician Assistant killed in combat. The same year, a scholarship was established by his beloved family and has supported current and previous military-associated students since.

​​​​Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who are an Army Reservist, Army National Guard member, Active Army soldier, or honorably discharged veteran of these branches.

 

Charles E. and Harriet L. Bader Endowed Nursing Scholarship Fund

This fund was established by Shirley Bader Weis, an influential 1975 graduate of the MSU College of Nursing, in honor of her parents. Shirley’s goal for this scholarship was to assist nursing students in their difficulties with the cost of attending college.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing and demonstrate financial need. 

 

College of Nursing Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was established to demonstrate the continuing commitment of College of Nursing alumni to the support and encouragement of future nurses in their pursuit of academic excellence.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing who demonstrate involvement in community activities and leadership abilities. FInancial need may be considered.

 

College of Nursing Anniversary Endowed Scholarship Fund

This scholarship was created to commemorate the 75th anniversary of Michigan State University College of Nursing. The goal is to support deserving students in need, helping them realize their dreams of receiving a nursing degree from Michigan State University.

Requirements:

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing.

 

College of Nursing Scholarship

The mission of the College of Nursing at Michigan State University is to advance the health of individuals, communities and populations through inclusive and equitable nursing education, research, scholarship, and practice. This scholarship is intended to encourage students pursuing a nursing degree at the College.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who demonstrate sound academic achievement and leadership involvement in community service activities.

 

Conlon Wehrwein Endowed Scholarship for Graduate Students in the College of Nursing

Paul (SS, BS ’70) and Teresa (CON, BSN ’72) Conlon Wehrwein are graduates of Michigan State University as is their son Eric Conlon Wehrwein (BUS, BA ’01; AL, BA ’01). In 2001, Teresa returned to Michigan State University as a faculty member and served as interim associate dean for academic and clinical affairs. When determining how to make this lasting gift to Michigan State University, the couple was significantly concerned about the growing nursing faculty shortage in Michigan and the nation.

Requirements

Prospective or matriculating graduate degree nursing students planning a career in nursing education in the College of Nursing at Michigan State University. Students with demonstrated financial need will receive priority (i.e. single parent, recent job loss, etc). Students should be in good academic standing and possess a minimum 3.5 GPA

 

Diana Roush Memorial Endowed Scholarship in the College of Nursing

This scholarship honors the memory of a beloved member of the College of Nursing community, Diana Houghtaling Roush (CON BSN ’75), who passed away on August 1, 2005. In 1991, she became a faculty member in the College, fulfilling a number of responsibilities, including the leadership role of Clinical Placements Coordinator. Diana worked to make contact with clinical agencies, and always made it a priority to act as an advocate for students.

Requirements

Graduate degree nursing students that are highly motivated and show great promise to contribute to the profession of nursing education.  If no student is found that matches the above criteria, the scholarship may be granted to any graduate degree nursing student who demonstrates financial need. 

 

Dr. Charles and Marjorie A. Gliozzo Endowment Fund for Nurses and Caregivers

This fund was established by Dr. Charles A. Gliozzo, a first-hand observer of the importance of nursing after his wife Marjorie suffered a stroke in 2012. He was impressed with the loving care conveyed to her during treatment and recovery. According to Dr. Charles A. Gliozzo, nurses and caregivers are the “backbone” to the medical profession.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who are current or previous care providers (defined as providing care to a family member or loved one).  Recipients may be dependents of current or previous care givers and have an expressed interest in a career at a nursing home, skilled nursing center or assisted living facility. Priority will be given to an applicant who has at least one year of experience in a care facility, has an expressed interest in a career focused on gerontology and meets one or more of the criteria.

 

Florence Kempf Scholarship

This scholarship was established to honor the legacy of Florence C. Kempf, who was the first director of Michigan State University School of Nursing when it opened in 1950. She remained in that role until her retirement in 1964. Florence was instrumental in developing the educational framework for what is now the College of Nursing.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing.

 

Florence Nothstine Endowed Scholarship for Nursing

This scholarship was established by Leo Nothstine to honor his late wife, Florence Nothstine, and to encourage students who have demonstrated capacity to achieve educational and professional goals, the motivation to achieve these goals, and the initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree nursing students with four semesters or less remaining or a graduate student enrolled and in good standing. This scholarship is not to be an award for top grades but rather it is intended to help students who have demonstrated the initiative to help themselves by working at least part-time while attending school and who have financial need. Must be a resident of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, ohio, Pennsylvania or Wisconsin. 

 

George and Margaret Lorimer Parsons Nursing Scholarship

An educator for more than 40 years, the late Margaret F. Lorimer began her teaching career in elementary education in 1934. She also taught at secondary school, junior college, and university levels in the states of Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, and Michigan. Margaret earned her bachelor’s degree in English at Park University, her master’s degree in English-Education at Northwestern University, and her doctorate degree in Education from Michigan State University. She and her late husband, George Parsons, were longtime supporters of Michigan State University.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students enrolled in the College of Nursing who are in good academic standing and have at least 3rd year status as an undergraduate student, or entering/matriculating through a graduate or accelerated program.

 

Gerald and Julie Abraham Family Scholarship in Nursing

Jerry and Julie Abraham aim to impact of the future of the MSU medical community after facing medical issues for decades. Their experiences in and out of hospital settings have proven to them the importance of highly trained medical professionals.

The Abrahams were especially impacted by nurses during their difficult medical journeys. The compassion, holistic care and education their nurses provided were a constant and form of comfort during treatments. It is this patient and support system education that Jerry and Julie wanted to address by establishing this scholarship, which will assist future nurses who exhibit a deep understanding of patient advocacy and education. 

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students. Preference will be given to those who expressed a desire to serve as an advocate for patients as demonstrated by coursework, internships, or involvement in an MSU-sponsored organization. Awards may be renewable as long as recipients continue to meet eligibility requirements. 

 

Glenn R. Dean and Anita C. Dean Endowed Fellowship for the College of Nursing

Anita C. Dean received her Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics, Foods, and Nutrition and her Masters of Science in Institutional Administration from Michigan State University. She served as a First Lieutenant in the Women’s Medical Specialist Corps during World War II before teaching at Michigan State University from 1953 to 1981 in the College of Human Ecology.

This fellowship was established to honor her Anita's, Captain Glenn R. Dean, who died Oct. 9, 1950, in military operations in Korea.

Requirements

Graduate degree nursing students with the following:
High academic standing in graduate coursework.
Outstanding research proposal in health outcomes.
Outstanding recommendations of faculty.
Student documentation of scholarship such as presentations, publications, and the like. Must have a high level of skill in health outcomes research related to individuals and families within the context of community-based primary care.

 

Helen M. Kelley Endowed Scholarship

Helen M. Kelley was a practicing registered nurse for 45 years. She believed that nothing would ever replace good bedside judgment, care, and the support of a dedicated nurse. This scholarship was created by Helen’s sons and daughter-in-law, all of whom are Michigan State University alumni, in her loving memory.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals at the CON. Recipients with financial need may be considered.

 

James E. and Patricia A. Oesterreicher Scholarship for Excellence in Nursing

James Oesterreicher was called to create this fund after witnessing the care shown to his family by nurses. This scholarship is intended to support worthy and capable students enrolled in the College of Nursing.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students with preference given to students who are residents of the state of Michigan. Additional preference will be given to students with demonstrated financial need. Awards may be renewable for an additional three years, allowing the recipient to benefit from the scholarship for a total of four years, as long as students maintain a 3.0 GPA, as well as expendable amounts allow.

 

Janet M. Wendorf Endowed Scholarship

Janet “Jan” May Wendorf passed away at 78 years of age on Jan. 24, 2017. Words can never fully describe Jan’s zest for life, country, friends,
God, and especially her family.

On several occasions, Jan played the role of hospice nurse for family members. Because she was not a nurse by trade, she had to research and educate herself on basic medical care, pain management and other skills that would help her loved ones live out their lives comfortably. Her actions, care, and compassion earned her the title of
“honorary nurse.”

Over the 78 years of her life, Jan created a legacy of friends, gifts, and love, with her family as her greatest pride and joy. Committed to carrying on her work, Jan’s family created the Janet M. Wendorf Endowed Scholarship.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who have contributed to their community through community service and plan to continue service as part of their career.

 

Janice and Alton Granger Endowed Student Scholarship

Janice Granger (CON BSN ’80) was a valued member of the College’s alumni family and had extensive ties to the community and to the state of Michigan. Jan, her surviving husband, Alton (ENG, BS ’54), and family have all demonstrated unwavering support of the Michigan State University College of Nursing over the years.

Requirements

Graduate degree nursing students having an overall grade point average of 3.0  with a track in gerontology preferred, and financial need determined by the College.

 

John A. Sandin, II and Dr. John A. Sandin, III Endowed Scholarship

Marguerite (Sandy) DeWitt and her husband Richard DeWitt worked at Michigan State University for most of their careers. Sandy spent her time on campus tending to sick students as a nurse at the Olin Health Center. John worked in facilities and was an avid Spartan.

Sandy established the John A. Sandin, II and Dr. John A. Sandin, III Endowed Scholarship in the College of Nursing in loving memory of her brother and his son. As a former nurse, nursing students hold a special place in Sandy’s heart. She hopes that any student receiving this scholarship will practice their profession with compassion, excellence, and integrity.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students.

 

Krystal K. Owens “You’re Not Alone” Scholarship Endowment for the College of Nursing

At the time that this scholarship was established, Krystal Owens was the Director of Student Affairs, College Registrar, and Director of Nursing Workforce Diversity in the College of Nursing. As a professional, everything comes back to Krystal’s "why", which is supporting college students to succeed. One of her greatest passions is challenging her students to seek opportunities to learn and grow while reminding them that they are not alone.

She realizes the journey to obtaining a college degree can be challenging for many students, particularly marginalized students who are often overlooked – first-generation college students, students of color, academically/economically disadvantaged students, and bereaved college students.

Supporting underrepresented students is personal for Krystal, and she fervently expresses to all her students – “You’re Not Alone.” Krystal hopes that the students receiving this scholarship do the necessary work worldwide – serve as allies to pursue health equity, work to close health care disparities, and provide compassionate, quality, and culturally competent care for all.

Requirements

Graduate and undergraduate degree nursing students with a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.75 or higher will be eligible to receive this award. Qualified recipients must identify with one or more of the following criteria: first-generation college student, financial need, individuals who exhibit leadership skills in the face of adversity or who have overcome significant obstacles as indicated in a personal statement, an active participant of the ACCESS program or future successor program, or a student who has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing diversity in the nursing workforce through current or past experiences including, but not limited to volunteer opportunities, completed coursework, community outreach involvement, or a personal statement.

 

Marjorie A. Holmes Endowed Graduate Student Scholarship Fund

Marjorie Holmes moved from California to East Lansing with her husband Robert in 1957. While he attended the MSU Veterinary School, she enrolled in the newly formed BSN completion program and graduated in 1960, then completing her MBA in 1961. She was eternally grateful to Michigan State University for the educational opportunities it provided, as it established the base for her professional career for the next 30 years.

In 1986 after a long illness, her husband Robert passed. On the advice of a friend, a scholarship was set up at the College of Vet Med, as well as the College of Nursing. As a nursing administrator, Marjorie was acutely aware of the nursing shortage and actively engaged in recruiting and retaining nurses.

This fund provides financial assistance to graduate students who have demonstrated the capacity to achieve educational and professional goals and the initiative to seek opportunities to further their progress.

Requirements

Graduate degree nursing student who demonstrates financial need and has maintained a 3.0 grade point average.

 

Mary B. McCartney Endowed Study Abroad Scholarship Fund

This scholarship honors the late Mary Browder McCartney, formerly an assistant professor emerita for the College of Nursing. Mary held a strong interest in international student exchange activities. In 1991, she was appointed the College’s Director of International Activities and Programming and received the 1994 Ralph H. Smuckler Award for Advancing International Studies and Programs at Michigan State University.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in CON BSN, RN-BSN or Masters programs and who are planning to complete a study abroad within the next academic year (by end of Spring 2027). Must be signed up or committed to a study abroad. Preference given to students in the Nursing in London Program. If no students in this category apply, then other international nursing courses are to be considered. Must apply in writing to indicate professional goals and expected outcomes from the international experience. 

 

Mary Milner-Estes Endowed Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship was established by the late Mary J. Milner-Estes (CON BSN ’64), whose nursing career spanned more than 30 years. She began her journey as head nurse at Pontiac State Hospital. In 1969, she graduated from Wayne State with a Master’s in teaching and went on to work at the Veterans Administration Hospital where she served in the capacities of Assistant Chief Nurse and Chief of the Nursing Services throughout the country. She also served on faculty at both Wayne State and Michigan State Universities.

In retirement, Mary married her childhood friend David Estes, traveled, and remained active with the MSU Alumni Association, the college’s alumni association, and her church. No matter where she went, Mary made it known that she was an MSU graduate.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who are in good academic standings and have at least 3rd year status as an undergraduate student or entering or matriculating through a graduate or accelerated nursing program.

 

Retired Faculty Endowed Scholarship

Originally named the Irene Lynch Scholarship, the Retired Faculty Endowed Scholarship was created in 1993 by Irene Lynch, Louise Brouillette, JoAnn Westrick and Gabriele Kende - all retired College of Nursing faculty. This fund was established to honor retired faculty who dedicated their lives to the education of nursing students.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing. Financial need may be considered.

 

Sergeant Leonard Bernard Graham III Nursing Endowed Scholarship

A decorated veteran, Sgt. Leonard Bernard Graham III proudly served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps at a young age. During his time in the military, Leonard made the decision to attend the Michigan State University College of Nursing upon his return home, where he would begin his journey as a future Spartan Nurse. As a caring, compassionate and bright individual, his choice of life path as a patient-centered nurse made sense.

Leonard spent four years in the Marines, including a tour of duty in Afghanistan. He traveled home to Wixom, Michigan in 2012 and began striving towards his goal of an acceptance letter to nursing school. His life tragically ended on his birthday at the age of 24.

Upon his death, Leonard’s parents graciously chose to preserve his memory in a way that would be most meaningful to their child; by helping university students achieve their aspirations in obtaining an MSU nursing education. “It’s my way of thanking him for being my son and making his dream come true for other people”, his father Leonard Graham II explained.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree nursing students who are active marine, reservist, or honorably discharged veterans of any armed branch.

 

William and Angeline Keehner Scholarship

William and Angeline Keehner valued education and saw it as the key to a rewarding life even though they did not have the opportunity to pursue higher education. Bill worked for Ford Motor Company and Angie was a homemaker. They loved to travel and spend time with their family and friends, and they contributed to their church and community. Through their sacrifice, all three of their children received graduate degrees; two of them are nurses. Their children established this award to honor their memory and thank them for their love and support.

Requirements

Graduate degree nursing students who aspire to be excellent clinicians, leaders, educators, or researchers.

 

William G. Stuckle and Marion E. Stuckle Scholarships Fund in Nursing

This scholarship was established by the late William G. and Marion E. Stuckle in appreciation for the quality healthcare that nurses throughout the world provide.

Requirements

Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students.

 

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