Nineteen years ago, when the nursing shortage was hitting Florida hard, Baptist Health decided to take action by creating the Baptist Health Nurse Scholars Program. Today, this innovative program—which to date has graduated more than 3,300 nurses—is continuing to contribute to building a 
stable, professional nursing community in South Florida.
“In 2000, as a result of the nursing shortage, Baptist Health partnered with Miami Dade College to offer funding, faculty, and classroom and clinical space for associate degree nursing programs,” explained Maria A. Suarez, DNP, MSN, ARNP, ACNP-BC, assistant vice president of academic affairs and advanced clinical practice. “In 2007, the program evolved to begin providing scholarships and training for entry-level, bachelor-degree nurses through Barry University and Nova Southeastern as well.”
“Each year, Baptist Health awards scholarships to approximately 200 nursing students. In addition to providing scholarships, Baptist Health provides full-time faculty for Miami Dade College, Barry University and Nova Southeastern.
Students can apply for scholarships through the program in return for a work commitment. The Nurse Scholars Program provides students with an intensive training internship, exposing students to real-life situations and allowing them to work on a dedicated, multidisciplinary team with nursing mentors.
“Through this paid internship, nursing students make an easy transition from a student nurse to a professional nurse,” said Suarez. “They become part of that unit, and often end up working there after they graduate.”
The Nurse Scholars Program provides many advantages for students, such as free tutoring and access to lectures each month, in addition to the curriculum, where students learn Baptist Health policies, procedures and culture.“We are committed to the success of each and every nursing scholar,” said Suarez.
Students who want to pursue further education after their four-year commitment and are employed by Baptist Health can apply for scholarships to earn a graduate nursing degree.
Since its inception, the Nurse Scholars Program has awarded more than $44 million worth of scholarships. An average of 94 percent of Baptist Health scholars pass their state boards the first time, compared to 87 percent of nursing students nationally and 73 percent statewide.
“The Nurse Scholars Program provides financial assistance to students pursuing a career in nursing who otherwise may not have been able to afford the required education,” said Suarez. “As a result, Baptist Health has access to a consistent pipeline of well-trained nurses who share the same values at the core of its mission.”
