Industry leaders respond to community needs by helping students complete their undergraduate degrees in fields critical to the health and economic stability of our communities. As community partners, scholarship providers appreciate the value of supporting the pursuits of talented and committed students. The support contributes to the talent pipeline in the short-term and to an industry in the long-term. It is a return on investment that touches countless lives in ripples over time.
Students immediately gain resources to help them meet the costs of attendance of an independent quality education. Additionally, it reduces student debt upon graduation. With fewer loans to repay, students can choose the career path that best aligns with their passions and interests instead of choosing a job opportunity to meet financial obligations. Scholarship applications clearly demonstrate that students want to address community needs and impact the larger world as an aspect of their self-defined success. Scholarships open the doors to these opportunities.
Olivia Soper, ’24, Nursing student at Saint Elizabeth’s University, shared her gratitude with the Board of Advisors at a recent meeting. In relaying her appreciation for the Johnson & Johnson Nursing Initiatives Scholarship, Olivia told not only of how the scholarship was helping meet the unique expenses of earning a nursing degree – scrubs, medical equipment and travel to clinicals, but also the ways in which it has helped to confirm her passion among the many career options for nurses. The challenges of pediatric oncology is where Olivia feels her talents and skills will provide care and comfort for children and their families. Board member Tom Spellman, Ethicon, Johnson & Johnson Surgical Technologies, joined in congratulating Olivia on her college accomplishments and the promise she demonstrates for a nursing career.
Now is the time to introduce a scholarship. The Council of Independent Colleges is encouraging new scholarship opportunities through a challenge grant. They will match dollar for dollar new scholarship awards up to $25,000. Is it time for you to consider how a scholarship can support your industry? Reach out to mabreuninger@njcolleges.org to find out how you can change a student’s life.
