Mar 26, 2013

Continuing a tradition of generosity, Mainland Medical Center Auxiliary has donated $23,000 to fund scholarships for College of the Mainland nursing students.

“This will mean a lot to many, many students. We thank them for their support,” said Dr. Beth Lewis, COM president.

The funds will cover 10 scholarships, three for associate degree nursing students, two for licensed vocational nursing students and five for certified nurse assistant students.
 
“They have always been a strong supporter. Their scholarships have contributed greatly to many of the students being able to complete the program,” said Gay Reeves, director of nursing.
 
The Mainland Medical Auxiliary has served the community since 1958 and raises funds through the Mainland Medical Center Gift Shop and other fundraisers. They have supported COM scholarships since 1999.
 
“We are all volunteers. Our mission is medical education,” said Carmen Shinn, Mainland Medical Center Auxiliary president. “We feel really good about donating to the COM Foundation because we set the criteria (for scholarship recipients).”
 
This past school year was the first the certified nurse assistant students were also eligible for scholarships, based on Mainland Medical Auxiliary’s research that for those students the certificate program is often a stepping stone to a higher degree.
 
“We really appreciate them. Because of Mainland Auxiliary, there will be students awarded opportunities to begin fulfilling their professional dreams,” said Vera Schoppe, certified nurse assistant program coordinator.