University of Mary and Jamestown Regional Medical Center Announce New Respiratory Therapy Scholarship Partnership

Full-tuition award deepens workforce pipeline in one of the nation's most respected respiratory therapy programs

BISMARCK, N.D. - Jamestown Regional Medical Center has committed funding for a new full-tuition scholarship in the University of Mary's nationally recognized Respiratory Therapy program, expanding access to a premier educational pathway while helping address a growing shortage of respiratory therapists across the region.

The selected student will receive 100% tuition coverage, guaranteed admission into the professional phase of the program upon successful completion of prerequisites, and a guaranteed employment offer at Jamestown Regional Medical Center upon graduation. Graduates fulfill their commitment through a three-year employment agreement with the health system.

"We are deeply grateful to Jamestown Regional Medical Center for this meaningful partnership. Their investment reflects a shared commitment to building the respiratory therapy workforce our region so urgently needs, and we look forward to providing students a clear, affordable path from education to a rewarding career," said Dr. Mary Dockter, vice president for medical education and partnerships and dean of the College of Health Professions, University of Mary

The scholarship is expected to be available for students entering fall 2026. Prospective students are encouraged to apply early through the University of Mary's Department of Admissions, as awards are limited.

"This partnership reflects our commitment to investing in the future of healthcare right here in our community," said Nicole Brandvold, Respiratory Care manager at Jamestown Regional Medical Center. "By supporting students pursuing respiratory therapy, we are helping build a strong, skilled workforce prepared to meet the growing demand for specialized care. Not only does this create meaningful educational and career opportunities, it also strengthens our ability to provide high-quality, patient-centered care close to home."

This partnership builds on strong momentum for the University of Mary's Respiratory Therapy program, which has earned national recognition for its outcomes - including a 100% licensure success rate and 100% job placement rate for graduates. The program has received the CoARC President's Award for Excellence in Credentialing Success and the AARC Apex Award for Education Excellence for 2024-2025. With employment projected to grow 12% through 2034 and a median annual wage of $80,450, respiratory therapy offers both strong career security and meaningful earning potential.

This award builds on five full-tuition respiratory therapy scholarships the University of Mary announced earlier this year in partnership with CHI St. Alexius Health, bringing the university's total number of full-tuition scholarships across high-need disciplines to 62.

For more information, visit umary.edu or contact Admissions at [email protected] or (701) 355-8030.