The Sheridan Memorial Hospital Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of this year’s Clinical and Nursing Scholarships, awarded to 30 individual staff representing 16 different service lines and departments throughout the hospital. The awards underscore the diverse talents and aspirations of SMH’s dedicated healthcare professionals.
Scholarships were granted for a variety of educational pursuits — from certifications and conferences to associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing and healthcare fields. The large number of applications and recipients this year highlights our staff’s deep commitment to continuous learning and providing excellent, compassionate care. The Annual Cato Scholar Award recipient this year was Gretchen Doenz.
The SMH Foundation has been awarding scholarships since 2001, under the leadership of Director of Donor Relations Ada Kirven, who has helped shape the program since its inception. Each year, the Foundation collaborates with hospital leadership and Foundation committee members to ensure that scholarship funds support high-quality clinical training — ultimately benefiting patients and families in Sheridan and the surrounding region.
At this year’s Foundation annual meeting, Kirven expressed gratitude to the donors and volunteers who make these scholarships possible.
“We are thrilled to support our staff as they expand their knowledge and grow in a constantly changing healthcare industry,” Kirven said. “Sheridan Memorial Hospital’s caring staff is our greatest asset. These opportunities not only help recipients grow as individuals, but also strengthen our teams and entire organization. This investment in our people drives our mission forward — delivering excellent, patient-centered care for all.”
Kirven also emphasized the difference it makes to live in generous community.
“The generosity of our donors allows us to make a meaningful difference in the lives of these healthcare professionals. With more than 100 donors contributing, many of these gifts are a direct reflection of the gratitude our community feels for the care they receive at SMH.”
The Foundation remains committed to advancing healthcare in our region through scholarships, grants and other initiatives.
To learn more about the Foundation’s mission or to make a gift of gratitude in honor of care received, visit sheridanhospital.org/foundation.