Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Grant Supports Students Pursuing New Careers in Nursing

Based in Princeton, NJ, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) is the nation’s largest charitable organization devoted solely to public health. The foundation awarded Dr. Edwards with $55,500 through its New Careers in Nursing (NCIN) program, which helps students at universities throughout the nation who have already earned a bachelor’s degree in another field to change careers to nursing by enrolling in accelerated nursing degree programs.

Through a competitive process, five FAU scholars – Michele Campbell, Camila Escobar, Henry Fidler, Romilda Jean and Tiffany Pico – each received $10,000 NCIN scholarships. In addition to the funding, students were provided with additional support to help them be successful in their accelerated degree program.

The students’ support system included leadership programs, mentoring and a Pre-Entry Immersion Program (PIP) to help prepare for the program by acquiring skills in time management, critical thinking, test-taking, mind-mapping, managing test anxiety, and evidenced-based approaches to studying. Dr. Nancey France, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Studies, and Dr. Beth King, Visiting Assistant Professor and RN-BSN Coordinator, organized and implemented the PIP for the scholars, and also extended the program to all newly admitted BSN students.

Dr. Susan Dyess directed the leadership development activities for the NCIN scholars, and Drs. Marlene Brennen, Jacinto Garrido, Vanessa Johnson, Eugenia Millender and Maria Ordonez served as their mentors. 

“It has been an honor to invest both time and funds in these scholars as they pursue their academic and career paths,” said Dr. Dyess. “They are the future of nursing and will build a more diverse workforce serving traditionally underserved populations for years to come.”