Four nursing students from the Lee University School of Nursing have been selected as the first recipients of the CHI Memorial Scholarship program and include Naomi Bucciarelli, Christiana Diaz Marquez, Emmie Seymour, and Phoebe Smith.  
 
“This partnership makes a quality, faith-based nursing education possible for students who are called to this profession,” said Dr. Amy Jo Perry, dean of the Lee School of Nursing. “It highlights a way that healthcare organizations and higher education institutions can work together to craft innovative, mutually beneficial solutions to human resource challenges.” 
 
Each student will receive $15,000 in scholarships per year in exchange for a commitment to work as a nurse at CHI Memorial for two to four years after graduation, based on the number of years they received the scholarship. While in college, the students will complete the majority of their required clinical experience at CHI Memorial and are encouraged to work there as nurse technicians over the course of their schooling to help expedite the onboarding process post-graduation.  
 
“This is a wonderful opportunity for CHI Memorial to be able to further partner with Lee University through this scholarship program,” said Sherry Fusco, chief nursing officer of CHI Memorial. “This program provides valuable benefits for students to further their education while reducing financial barriers and empowering them to focus on their education. It highlights the commitment of investing in future talent, strengthens community connections, and supports workforce development of highly skilled and dedicated professionals who will make significant differences in the healthcare field.” 
 
Through this program, CHI Memorial has committed to give $150,000 over a period of five years to support Lee School of Nursing students.  
 
“This scholarship is a huge blessing,” said Naomi Bucciarelli. “I look forward to being a part of the CHI Memorial team and contributing to the excellent care and service they provide.” 
 
For more information about the CHI Memorial Scholarship, visit leeuniversity.edu/chi-memorial-nursing-scholarship/. 
 
For more information about the School of Nursing, visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/nursing/.