By Terry L. Hapney, Jr.
The Ironton Tribune

“Nurses are always there; you care for us from the earliest years. You look after us in our happiest and saddest times. And for many, you look after us and our families at the end of our lives. Your dedication and professionalism are awe-inspiring.”
Catherine, Princess of Wales (Duchess Kate Middleton) sums up the impact nurses have on the lives of their patients. One local organization is doing its part to support and encourage future nurses during their time in school preparing for careers that impact many lives in the same manner.
For “quite some time” now, the Ironton Rotary Club has awarded two scholarships to Lawrence County nursing students. The organization’s call for 2024 applications is underway with a June 30 deadline approaching.
Marty Conley, second-year president of the Rotary Club, said while students must be from Lawrence County, they may attend out-of-state/out-of-area colleges and universities.
“They could be going to Morehead, Marshall, Rio or wherever; that’s fine,” he said. “They must be from the county.”
The scholarships are $1,250 each, with $1,000 going to the school to help cover tuition. The remaining $250 goes directly to the recipient for books and/or other expenses.
“We are looking to award two students for fall semester,” Conley said. “If you are a nursing student living in Lawrence County, we encourage you to apply.”
Conley said the 104-year-old civic organization has awarded the scholarships for such a long time, since the 1950s, that some past recipients are now retired.
“There was a lady who stopped by one of our meetings who is retired; she was a recipient,” he said.
In addition to residing in Lawrence County and pursuing a career in nursing, applicants must be in good academic standing and have a need for financial assistance. They also cannot be an immediate relative of a member of the Ironton Rotary Club.
Candidates must submit the completed application form with three reference letters. The selection committee will make its choice and notify both the student and the university or college about the award.
Nursing students who are interested in applying may download the application form from the Ironton Rotary Club’s website at irontonrotaryclub.org. Once completed, they mail or email the form to the scholarship committee.
For more information, contact Conley at marty@visitlawrenceohio.com.