Open to adult students residing in Massachusetts who are pursuing a second career in nursing, to obtain their Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing. The Mary Cafolla Wallace Nursing Scholarship Program is a new scholarship that aims to support adult students residing in Massachusetts, who are pursuing a second career in nursing, to obtain their Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

‍

Mary Cafolla Wallace was the child of Italian immigrants who persevered to become a registered nurse in 1951. She was a strong patient advocate and believed in the healing powers of a good nurse. She had a long and varied career in nursing, caring for patients from the beginning to the end of life. Her friends, family and former patients described her after her death as a nurse’s nurse; smart, professional, collaborative and caring, with a wicked sense of humor.

‍

She always believed that people could have a second act; reinvent themselves to better their lives with assistance from others. This scholarship honors her by extending help to adult learners who wish to become a nurse. The ideal candidate will have some experience in the medical field and strong desire to become a nurse. This scholarship and support program seeks to identify students, where additional financial support will make a difference in their ability to fulfill their goal of obtaining a degree and becoming a nurse. The program is funded by the Timothy and Deborah Moore Charitable Foundation and administered by The Philanthropic Initiative (TPI).

• Current residents of Massachusetts who are eligible to apply for federal financial aid.
• Adults ages 24-55.
• Planning to pursue a second career in nursing and obtain either an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
• Must already have an Associate or Bachelor’s degree, and plan to or are currently studying nursing.
• Entering or currently enrolled in nursing school.
• Must have an unmet financial need.
• Preference will be given to students with experience in a medical setting.
• Strong academic record in the sciences (GPA of 3.0 or higher in science courses)
• Planning to attend a not-for-profit, accredited nursing school in one the following states: CT, MA, ME, NH, RI, or VT in the fall of 2024.
• Hybrid programs (with a combination of online and in person classes) are eligible, provided most nursing classes are taken in person.

Renewal:

• Renewal of the scholarship is contingent upon the student maintaining a grade point average of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent) and having unmet financial need. Recipients of the scholarship will be required to complete a short renewal application annually to receive the scholarship for the following year.