For DonorsFor Applicants

Wanda G. Lear Memorial Scholarship

$1,000
1 winner$1,000
Awarded
Application Deadline
Jul 1, 2024
Winners Announced
Aug 1, 2024
Education Level
Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
First-year undergraduate student
Field of Study:
Nursing

Wanda G. Lear was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, nurse, and professor who passed away much, much too soon, on February 5th, 2024. 

Wanda was born in a small town in Southeastern Kentucky. She earned her associate’s degree in nursing while working full-time and parenting two small children. She went on to earn her BSN and MSN from the University of Kentucky while continuing to work. 

After earning her MSN, Wanda began teaching and found her true calling. She loved learning and loved teaching others. Wanda impacted countless lives with her compassion and wisdom as a nurse and as an educator. She worked in many different settings and taught nursing in Kentucky before relocating to Florida in the late 1990s. She retired from Daytona State College as a Professor of Nursing. 

This scholarship was created to honor the incredible life of Wanda G. Lear by supporting students who share Wanda’s love for learning and nursing.

Any first-year undergraduate student who is pursuing a nursing degree may apply for this scholarship opportunity. 

To apply, tell us what becoming a nurse means to you.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Nursing
Published March 25, 2024
Essay Topic

Please provide a short description of what becoming a nurse means to you.

400–600 words

Winning Application

Crystal Stewart
Daytona State CollegePORT ORANGE, FL
Nursing holds a special place in my heart; it's not just a career choice, but a profound calling that ignites a fire within me to serve others with compassion and empathy. In essence, nursing means being a beacon of care and comfort for those who are vulnerable, sick, or in pain. At its core, nursing is about human connection. It's about forming bonds with patients and their families, understanding their fears, hopes, and dreams, and providing support during their most challenging moments. Nursing means being there to celebrate victories and provide solace during setbacks, offering a listening ear and a gentle touch to ease suffering and promote healing. For me, nursing is also synonymous with advocacy. It's about standing up for patients' rights, ensuring they receive equitable treatment and access to quality healthcare. It means being a voice for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves, advocating for better policies and resources to improve patient outcomes and overall well-being. Moreover, nursing embodies the spirit of lifelong learning and growth. It's about staying current with advancements in medical knowledge and technology, continuously expanding one's skillset, and embracing new challenges with enthusiasm and determination. Nursing means seeking out opportunities for professional development and mentorship, striving to deliver the highest standard of care to every patient, every time. One of the most profound aspects of nursing is its capacity to make a difference, no matter how small. Whether it's administering medication, dressing a wound, or simply offering a reassuring presence, nursing encompasses countless acts of kindness and compassion that have the power to transform lives. Nursing means going above and beyond to ensure that each patient feels valued, respected, and cared for with dignity and integrity. As I pursue my journey into nursing, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. With this scholarship, I hope to further my education and training, equipping myself with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this noble profession. I am committed to upholding the values of nursing—compassion, empathy, advocacy, and lifelong learning—and to serving as a beacon of hope and healing for those in need. In conclusion, nursing is not just a job; it's a vocation—a calling to serve others with kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication. It's about making a difference in the lives of patients and their families, advocating for their rights and well-being, and striving for excellence in all aspects of care. With this scholarship, I am honored to continue my journey into nursing, inspired by the countless opportunities to make a positive impact and grateful for the privilege to serve others in their time of need.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Jul 1, 2024. Winners will be announced on Aug 1, 2024.