This group of scholarships supports students enrolled in the College of Nursing's undergraduate programs. Students in the Traditional BSN, Accelerated BSN, and RN-BSN programs are eligible for these funds.
This fund supports the ACCESS Program, including providing financial support for students and identifying programmatic needs.
Undergraduate degree nursing students in the ACCESS Program and exhibit financial need.
Established by Dick and Susan Herrold, this scholarship is intended to honor and encourage all those nurses who have improved our lives, and future nurses now studying at Michigan State University.
Undergraduate degree nursing students.
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.
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.
This scholarship has been established to honor Carol Robinson Beals (CON BSN ’72). President of the Beals Institute, Carol was a medical doctor whose practice specialized in rheumatology. Today, the Beals Institute is an important healthcare provider for the state of Michigan and provides the highest quality of heathcare for arthritis, autoimmune diseases and osteoporosis.
This award is intended to encourage students at the College of Nursing obtaining an undergraduate degree.
Undergraduate degree nursing students selected on a basis of academic record, having a minimum GPA of 3.3, having financial need, coming from a family of modest means with a preference for a resident of a rural area in Michigan. If a Michigan resident of a rural area is not available, the preference is for a Michigan resident. If a Michigan resident is not available, then a resident of the Midwest would be preferred.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing and demonstrate financial need.
The Michigan State University College of Nursing’s Accelerated Second-Degree Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) program plays a crucial role in helping to address the national nurse shortage by graduating exceptional Spartan Nurses into the workforce. The ABSN program provides an opportunity for students who have earned their bachelor’s degree in another field to earn their BSN in only 16 months at either MSU College of Nursing’s East Lansing or Detroit locations, making them invaluable in expanding access to quality patient care.
Since ABSN students are non-traditional students, they are not eligible for PELL grants, federal direct loans or other traditional funding sources for college students. Scholarships are one of the only ways for ABSN students to ease the financial burden of pursuing their dream of becoming a nurse.
Undergraduate degree nursing students enrolled in the Accelerated BSN program.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing who demonstrate involvement in community activities and leadership abilities. FInancial need may be considered.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students who demonstrate sound academic achievement and leadership involvement in community service activities.
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.
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.
Lorelei F. Rockwell graduated with a bachelor’s in business administration from Michigan State University in 1962. Lorelei and her husband Wayne established this scholarship to honor the memory of her mother, Elizabeth Blay Maison, who was a devoted nurse who dedicated herself to the profession before passing away at the age of 53.
Undergraduate degree nursing students in good academic standing and who have demonstrated financial need.
The Esther Elliott Martin scholarship program was established by Portage Learning in memory of Esther Elliott Martin in tribute to her lifelong passion for education. As a reflection of her Christian faith, she tirelessly gave her time and resources while demonstrating respect and concern for each student.
Portage Learning awarded this scholarship to the Michigan State University College of Nursing based on a nomination by Admissions and Recruitment Counselor, Jessica Denbow Peltier. In her application, Jessica thoughtfully advocated for our students in highlighting the College's values, culture, and commitment to student success.
Undergraduate degree nursing students enrolled in the Accelerated BSN program.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This scholarship was created by Ralph Calder, an architect who was involved in the design of 54 buildings on Michigan State University’s campus. He established this endowed scholarship in memory of his wife, Helen, with the intent of honoring the nursing care that she received while battling a long illness.
Undergraduate degree nursing student of sophomore, junior or senior standing.
2.6 GPA end of freshman year
2.8 GPA end of sophomore year
3.0 GPA end of junior year
Recipients must be Michigan residents
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.
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.
This scholarship was founded by the Helene Fuld Health Trust, which is the largest charitable trust in the United States devoted exclusively to supporting nurses and nursing education. The grant was made exclusively to support financial aid for students enrolled in the Accelerated Second Degree Option Nursing BSN program.
Undergraduate degree nursing student enrolled in the MSU Accelerated Second Degree Option Nursing Baccalaureate Program ("AO Program").
Inspired by the attentive and caring nurses at the Michigan State University Oncology Center, this scholarship was established by Laurence Harmon, a professor emeritus of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Michigan State University. The fund was created in loving memory of his wife, Inez, and his sister, Gladys.
Undergraduate degree nursing students who have completed at least two years of University academic credits with a minimum of 2.75 grade point average and are majoring in the College of Nursing with the objective of becoming a Registered Nurse.
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.
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 “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.
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.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students.
Paula Manderfield (CON BSN ‘79) worked as an RN part-time while attending Michigan State University to complete her bachelor’s degree in nursing. When she entered law school, she continued to support herself by working as a nurse. Throughout her diverse career she has served as a licensed attorney for more than 30 years; has 20 years of judicial experience as a district judge and circuit judge including two years as a family court judge; and has maintained her nursing license for more than 35 years. Paula remains connected and has always held the belief that nursing is a noble and honorable profession.
Undergraduate degree nursing student enrolled in the RN/BSN program.
In 2021, Julie Raines Dingerson and her family established this scholarship in recognition of Julie’s nursing career. She spent 30 of her 41 years as a nurse in public health nursing, where she enjoyed working with MSU students in their Community Health rotation. This scholarship is intended to help remove financial barriers for those pursuing a BSN degree via the ACCESS Program.
Undergraduate degree nursing students pursuing their BSN in the College of Nursing and admitted to the ACCESS Program, or future successor program, will be eligible for this award. Preference will be given to students who are residents of Benton Harbor, MI.
Kendra Elam (BSN ’04) established this fund in an effort to support worthy and capable students who are enrolled in the College of Nursing’s ACCESS to education program. In 2010, the College began expanding opportunities for diversity and inclusion initiatives, resulting in the need for a new academic specialist. Over her years as a nurse, Kendra has engaged in a great deal of research regarding underserved and disadvantaged populations, making her the perfect candidate for the job.
Since her hiring and subsequent formation of the ACCESS program, Kendra guided and mentored dozens of students from underserved populations within the College of Nursing. The ACCESS program aids students through educational and financial resources, with the ultimate goal of obtaining a BSN degree and registered-nurse licensure. It is Kendra’s hope that the presence of KDE scholarship recipients will serve as a reminder of how essential diverse voices are in the healthcare community.
Undergraduate degree nursing student enrolled in the ACCESS to Education Program.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Established in her memory, this scholarship honors Nancy Ann Mulrenan Agents (CON BSN '69), a dedicated professional in the field of nursing. Through her career and daily actions, Nacy exemplified an unyeilding commitment to the pursuit of excellence in the care and healing of those in need.
Undergraduate degree nursing students enrolled in the RN/BSN program who maintain a GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate capacity, motivation and initiative to achieve academic and professional excellence. Preference may be given to students who demonstrate financial need.
At the time that this scholarship was established, Joyce Kareti (CON BSN ’97) was a student in the College’s RN to BSN program. Joyce sadly passed in 2025. Dedicated to healing and care, Rao and Joyce Kareti chose to establish this scholarship to help students who, due to financial circumstances, may not be able to achieve their academic goals in nursing.
Undergraduate degree nursing students with preference given to those enrolled in the RN/BSN program. Applicants shall meet appropriate academic standards as determined by the College. Financial need may be considered. Applicants who reflect the country's and profession's diversity particularly shall be encouraged to apply for this scholarship and shall be given all appropriate consideration.
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.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing students in good academic standing. Financial need may be considered.
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.
Undergraduate degree nursing students who are active marine, reservist, or honorably discharged veterans of any armed branch.
This scholarship was established by Susan Varbedian Lucken, a 1983 BSN graduate of the MSU College of Nursing, who enjoyed a successful and rewarding 30-year nursing career at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, MI.
Established to help deserving students realize their dreams, this $10,000 annual scholarship will be awarded to two upper-level BSN students. The scholarship can be renewed for one additional year as long as the student remains in the BSN program and meets the academic qualifications.
Undergraduate degree nursing students who demonstrate financial need, have maintained a 3.3 or higher grade point average and have demonstrated leadership involvement while at MSU.
Tammi Therese Strohmaier was a junior in the College of Nursing who was killed in a car accident in 1998 at the age of 21. Though her time here was tragically cut short, Tammi left an important legacy which included community involvement, excellence in sports, and high academic achievements. To honor her memory, friends and family of Tammi established this scholarship.
Undergraduate degree nursing students with preference to those who have achieved academic excellence and have contributed to their community through community service.
This scholarship was established by Joe and Carol Vermeesch in honor of their parents (Joseph and Esther Vermeesch, and Earl and Angeline Regnier). It was through the encouragement of their parents that Joe and Carol were able to pursue their goal of a college education. Carol is passionate about nursing education and has inspired students in the undergraduate nursing program at Michigan State University College of Nursing since 1996.
Undergraduate degree nursing students who demonstrate financial need, have maintained a 3.3 or higher grade point average and have demonstrated leadership involvement while at MSU.
The Visiting Nurses Scholarship, managed by the Capital Region Community Foundation, was established to help defray the costs of education and certification of nursing students, especially in the field of homecare.
Undergraduate or graduate degree nursing student who has an interest in the field of homecare.
Peg knew from a young age that she would pursue a career in healthcare. She learned persistence from her mother, who was unable to achieve her dream of a nursing education after raising a family. This drive and curiosity for knowledge led Peg to the Michigan State University School of Nursing, where she earned her BSN in 1977. She went on to be a trailblazer in nursing case management. The strength she witness in patients made a wonderful impact on her view of life.
Peg and her husband Bill aimed to make their own impact on College of Nursing students through their endowment. Peg wishes to pay forward her successes in life to future healthcare professionals - she believes this is the way of the "Spartan Nurse" - to build up those around them and take care of each other.
Undergraduate degree nursing students who have financial need, are residents of the state of Michigan, and have a minimum G.P.A of 3.0 will be eligible for this award.
