Bethune-Cookman University wins nearly $5.2M in historic federal nursing grants

Bethune-Cookman University has secured nearly $5.2 million in federal grants to strengthen nursing education and workforce development, according to a recent announcement. This marks the first time the historically Black university has received funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration. The Daytona Beach, Florida-based HBCU said on Oct.

21 that its College of Nursing and Health Sciences received two federal awards totaling $5,169,169. The grants will support efforts aimed at preparing future nurses and creating educational opportunities for healthcare professionals already in the workforce. The Wildcat Nursing Student Success Project received $2,190,703 to build a pathway for students from high school through the completion of a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

A second program, Project RISE-RN, was awarded $2,978,466 to help working healthcare professionals continue their education and move forward in their careers. The name stands for Recruiting, Inspiring, Supporting, and Educating the Registered Nurse. “These awards represent an important investment in our students and the future of healthcare across the region,” University President Albert D.

Mosley said in a statement. “By investing in students at different stages of their education and careers, we can help address critical healthcare needs, particularly in rural and medically underserved communities.” The funding builds on the strength of Bethune-Cookman’s nursing program, which ranks second among HBCUs. The university also reported that its nursing graduates have achieved a 100% first-time pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination for more than two years.

In addition, a $250,000 appropriation from the state of Florida will support the launch of a dual enrollment nursing program, giving high school students the chance to earn nursing credits before graduation. “Our students are the future of nursing,” said Beverly Bonaparte, dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Bonaparte said these investments will provide aspiring nurses and working professionals with the resources, support, and educational opportunities they need to succeed in healthcare.

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