Blue Cross Blue Shield Gift Supports UW Nursing Scholarships

A gift from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming (BCBSWY) Caring Foundation continues its scholarship support for students in the University of Wyoming's Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing through 2028, building on a commitment that began in 2016.

"Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming remains committed to improving the health of our members and supporting a strong, sustainable health care workforce," says Kris Urbanek, incoming president and chief executive officer of BCBSWY. "Provider shortages are felt in every corner of the state, and the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and Bachor of Science in Nursing (BSN) completion scholarships help develop the next generation of highly trained medical professionals who are ready to serve Wyoming communities. The BCBSWY Caring Foundation allows us to invest in students who will make a lasting difference for health care in Wyoming."

"The School of Nursing is incredibly honored to have the continued support of our nursing students through these generous scholarships. These scholarships not only make a difference to our students but also help prepare future nurses and nurse practitioners to serve our rural state of Wyoming," says Sherrill Smith, dean of the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing.

This generous gift supports the DNP Scholarship, the BSN Completion Scholarship and the Basic BSN Scholarship, along with the Revolutionizing Nursing Education in Wyoming Program.

The DNP Scholarship is awarded to five students who intend to practice in Wyoming after graduation. Two of these scholarships are reserved for students who study psychiatric mental health nursing to help address mental health within the state.

The BSN Completion Scholarship is awarded to students who have earned an associate degree in nursing from a Wyoming community college and are currently enrolled in a baccalaureate nursing program offered by the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing. Each year, seven scholarships are awarded -- with the intent of awarding scholarships to students from Wyoming community colleges.

The Basic BSN Scholarship is awarded to full-time juniors or seniors in UW's Basic BSN program.

"The continued support from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming Caring Foundation reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Wyoming's health care workforce and expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in nursing," says Patrick Hardigan, dean of the College of Health Sciences. "This investment directly supports the mission of the Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing by preparing highly skilled nurses and nurse practitioners who are equipped to meet Wyoming's growing health care needs, particularly in rural and underserved areas. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the lasting impact it will have on our students and the health of Wyoming communities."

Established in 1990 by BCBSWY, the Caring Foundation has supported student scholarships and created opportunities for nursing students at UW. The Caring Foundation invests in Wyoming's future health care workforce to strengthen health care systems, communities and families statewide. Through charitable giving and community engagement, it supports programs and initiatives that promote the well-being of Wyoming residents.

"Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming exemplifies what it means to be a true partner of the University of Wyoming and to the people of our state," says Angela Ver Ploeg, UW's senior director of corporate engagement. "This investment in nursing scholarships not only supports individual students, but also strengthens communities, expanding access to care and in key areas of need."

BCBSWY was founded in 1945 and is a not-for-profit health insurer and an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, providing members access to high-quality health care coverage. There are eight locations in Wyoming that provide hometown service to residents and businesses across the state.

The Fay W. Whitney School of Nursing prepares students for careers that strengthen Wyoming's health care system and beyond. The school offers Bachelor of Science, Master of Science and DNP degrees, along with strong academic support and financial assistance to help students excel. With programs that emphasize rural communities and real-world experiences, graduates are prepared to meet Wyoming's unique needs and step directly into the workforce.