Roane State Community College

December 15, 2023

The Volunteer Board at Methodist Medical Center of Oak Ridge recently awarded Roane State Foundation with $15,000 for nursing and health science scholarships to help students pursue their careers.

Following the donation, Methodist Medical Center (MMC) published an announcement stating that “developing and mentoring healthcare students is part of our mission, and now with this latest donation to Roane State, that mission is further strengthened thanks to the efforts and generosity of the hospital’s volunteer organization.”

This gift follows a rich tradition of support started by Methodist’s Volunteer Services organization more than 19 years ago, when it launched a six-year scholarship program for graduating high school seniors in the hospital’s five county service area – Anderson, Roane, Morgan, Campbell, and Scott.

The scholarships were $1,000 each and were renewable for an additional year if the students remained in good academic standing and continued to pursue a career in healthcare. A similar donation was made in 2019, and now, in 2023, the volunteers have picked up the torch again.

"The MMC volunteers are honored to provide financial assistance to deserving young people in our community working toward their degree in the medical field," said Jay Shepherd, MMC vice president and chief support officer. "We understand how important these positions are, as they are core to the services we provide. Our commitment to the development of strong clinical professionals from our community is what drives us to provide this scholarship opportunity."

Speaking about the donation and partnership with Roane State, MMC President and Chief Administrative Officer Jeremy Biggs called the effort an important endeavor. “Encouraging and nurturing students who are the future of healthcare is vital so that we can continue to provide excellent healthcare for our communities for many years to come,” Biggs said.

Roane State President Dr. Chris Whaley noted that scholarship contributions such as the Volunteer Services donation help students with needs that often are not covered by state or federal grants.

“Every student should have the opportunity to pursue their goals,” Dr. Whaley said. “While eligible students can receive grants to assist with tuition, some are unable to cover additional costs. This is especially true for health science students, who may need specialty shoes, scrubs, and related items for their courses and clinicals. These scholarships help bridge the gap and remove financial barriers so students can complete their education.”

Covenant Health, MMC's health system, offers extensive clinical and professional development programs to employees, including nursing and clinical education, continuing medical education, computer training, individual assessment services, and organizational development.

“For those considering a career in healthcare, you’ll find no more rewarding or challenging calling,” said Jacque Alt, MMC vice president of patient care services and chief nursing officer. “We applaud your efforts, and through this partnership with Roane State, are thrilled we can help support your dream.”

For more information on scholarships at Roane State, including those available through Roane State Foundation, visit roanestate.edu/scholarships. 

Roane State Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 corporation that seeks to enhance community awareness of the college, to secure private contributions and bequests, and to manage monies or properties given to the Foundation, including approximately $23 million in endowments and other investments. Roane State Foundation supports the college with capital projects, equipment, educational programs, and scholarships. For more information or to make a gift to support Roane State students, visit roanestate.edu/foundation, email Foundationdept@roanestate.edu, or call (865) 882-4507.