May 15, 2015

Nursing students face many pressures – class assignments, labs, work and often family responsibilities. Thanks to the Mainland Medical Auxiliary, students in the College of the Mainland nursing programs are assisted with one stressor: finances.

Continuing its longstanding support for COM nursing programs, Mainland Medical Auxiliary has donated $20,100 to fund scholarships for COM nursing students.

Six $3,100 scholarships will go to associate degree nursing students and three $500 scholarships will go to certified nurse assistant students.

“It made it a lot easier to not have to worry so much about finances,” said scholarship recipient Josephine Taylor, a COM Associate Degree Nursing Program student from Seabrook. “I thought I would have to work full-time and go to school, but it relieved that burden.”

The Mainland Medical Auxiliary has served the community since 1958 and raises funds through the Mainland Medical Center Gift Shop and other fundraisers. 

“You can never have too many nursing scholarships,” said Dr. Jere Hammer, COM director of nursing. “We discourage students from working because then they’re not successful in the program. This will benefit many students.”

COM Foundation awards more than $100,000 in scholarships to COM students each year. For more information, visit www.com.edu/scholarships.