Advocacy Education Scholarship

Purpose

The purpose of this scholarship is to provide financial support for a school nurse to participate in an advocacy education program.

History

The funds for this scholarship were originally named The NASN Advocacy Education Award in honor of Sally Williams, NASN's first President (1970-71). Past President Williams of California worked tirelessly for many years to convince the National Education Association (NEA) to address the unique needs and contributions of school nurses. On July 4, 1968, her efforts resulted in the establishment of the Department of Nursing within the NEA. Her vision was to bring school nurses together with a common voice and goal in speaking out on legislative issues that impacted school health.

Scholarship

  1. The chief executive officer determines the amount of the scholarship (up to $1500). The scholarship funds will be mailed to recipient. Fifty percent of the funds will be given at annual conference and the remaining 50% will be given at the completion of the project.
  2. Recipient's name will be communicated to the NASN membership following the conference.
  3. Recipient will receive complimentary registration to the annual conference during the year the scholarship is awarded.

Applicant Requirements

  1. Currently classified as an active NASN member for the previous 2 years.
  2. Current licensure as a registered nurse and be currently employed as a school nurse for at least .6 FTE for the previous two years.
  3. Hold a bachelor's degree or higher (this degree does not have to be in nursing).

Applicant Responsibilities

  • Provide a written statement of 500 words or less indicating their interest in advocacy for school nursing and/or school nursing services. The plan may have national, state or local focus, but should interface in some method with NASN (i.e., article in journal or newsletter, conference presentation, etc.).
  • The candidate's employer must provide a letter of support consenting to leave, if necessary, to attend an advocacy education program.
  • The candidate's affiliate organization or NASN must provide a letter of support.
  • Fifty percent of the scholarship funds will be given to the recipient upon announcement of the scholarship. The remaining fifty percent will be given upon successful completion of the advocacy action program and submission of an advocacy action plan for a project of the recipient’s choosing to promote the practice of school nursing.
  • Submit proof of attendance at the advocacy education program.
  • The scholarship must be used for advocacy education completed within 1 year of receiving the award.
  • The winner must submit an Interim Report by June 1 in the event the action plan is not complete.
  • Scholarship funds must be returned upon failure to attend program or submit required advocacy plan.
  • Submit no later than October 15 (application interface open on or about August 15).
  • Applicants are permitted to apply for one scholarship category each cycle.

Judging

  1. Scholarship will be rated on the following criteria:
    a. Benefit to school nursing practice - 60%
    b. Impact on the community - 25%
    c. Educational goals - 15%
  2. The applicant’s ability to briefly and concisely respond will be factored into the decision.
  3. The scholarship will only be presented to candidates who meet the established criteria and can demonstrate quality of practice.
  4. The scholarship will not be presented if a qualified candidate is not identified.
  5. The decision of the committee will be final and not open to appeal.

Apply Online by October 15

Questions? Contact NASN.