110 Iowans receive over $300,000 in scholarships to work in long-term care from the Iowa Health Care Association Foundation

Over 100 Iowans who want to advance their health care education to work in long-term care received over $300,000 in scholarships from the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA) Foundation last week. Scholarship recipients include current long-term care employees, as well as high school students, veterans and Iowans in rural communities wanting to join the health care profession. Scholarships provide for the cost of a variety of health care and leadership programs to equip health care workers with the skills they need to work in long-term care.

“With Iowa's senior population increasing and a growing demand for quality long-term care services, the IHCA Foundation is committed to developing skilled, caring professionals to meet these needs,” said IHCA Foundation Program Director Natalie Thompson. “Our 2024 scholarship programs, generously supported by donors, aim to empower motivated individuals to pursue careers in long-term care. The overwhelming interest among applicants is inspiring, and we commend this year’s scholarship recipients for their dedication to this noble profession. Having worked in various health care settings and receiving lifesaving care myself, I hold the utmost respect and gratitude for all health care professionals. Your work is truly invaluable, and we look forward to seeing the positive difference you will undoubtedly make in the lives of many."

More than 240 applications were received for this year’s scholarships. Scholarship applications were evaluated by the IHCA Foundation Board of Directors based upon the applicant’s experience, recommendations and future educational and career goals in long-term care. This year’s IHCA Foundation scholarship winners include:

Care Initiatives Director of Nursing (DON) Leadership Scholarship Recipients

This scholarship is for is for directors of nursing (DONs), assistant directors of nursing (ADONs) or registered nurses (RNs) interested in pursuing an ADON or DON position with an IHCA member organization, and is made possible by Care Initiatives. Twelve scholarships were awarded to the following recipients:

- Stacy Willard, Humboldt County Memorial Hospital

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About the Iowa Health Care Association Foundation

Founded in 1988 by the Iowa Health Care Association (IHCA), the mission of the IHCA Foundation is to foster excellence in long-term care for Iowans by building a stronger workforce. The IHCA Foundation carries out this mission by empowering individuals to reach their career goals in the long-term care profession through scholarships, career education and career access programs. IHCA Foundation programs help support career opportunities available in the long-term care continuum, including nursing facilities, assisted living programs, residential care facilities, senior living communities and home health agencies.