Jersey Shore Hospital, College Collaborate on Nursing Initiative

Published 03.11.2002

News

Jersey Shore Hospital and Pennsylvania College of Technology have established a partnership to help student nurses pay their college expenses in exchange for a commitment of employment at the hospital after graduation.

In 2002-03, Jersey Shore Hospital will commit up to $89,000 to launch the loan-forgiveness-award program, which was announced by Jersey Shore Hospital President Lou Ditzel, JSH Vice President of Nursing Betsy Crossley and Penn College President Dr. Davie Jane Gilmour.

The officials emphasized the value of providing an ongoing source of well-paying professional opportunities for the area's young people.

Under the terms of the agreement, Jersey Shore Hospital will provide up to $10,000 in loan forgiveness for a student enrolled in the College's nursing majors (registered nurse or licensed practical nurse).

"The students selected for this program will benefit greatly," Dr. Gilmour said. "It will not only help them to meet the cost of their education, but also assure them that they will have local employment upon graduation. The partnership is a perfect example of how two respected institutions can work together to help sustain a vital Lycoming County workforce."

Over the years, Jersey Shore Hospital has employed many graduates of Penn College and its predecessor institutions, Williamsport Area Community College and Williamsport Technical Institute.

"Local businesses like Jersey Shore Hospital are instrumental to the growth of Lycoming County and educational facilities such as Penn College," Dr. Gilmour said.

Eligibility criteria for the program include a minimum grade-point average; completion of most general pre-nursing course work; writing skills, as exhibited on the application; a personal interview; and two letters of recommendation from professionals who are aware of the student's work capabilities.

Students must submit an application by July 31 to be considered for an award. Representatives of Jersey Shore Hospital will interview candidates and notify those selected for the program.

Outreach to area secondary schools will be another component of the partnership. Jersey Shore Hospital and Penn College will coordinate communication with guidance counselors and career coordinators to ensure that students in area school districts are aware of local health-care career opportunities and scholarship availability.

To apply for the program, contact Joan Watson, director of human resources at Jersey Shore Hospital, at (570) 398-3105.