Blue Cross Blue Shield Provides Scholarship Funding for Nursing

An Investment in Nursing Education

In 2016, the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming [BCBSWY] Caring Foundation made a significant investment in nursing education in the state of Wyoming. It’s goal: To support the initiative, Meeting Wyoming’s Needs Through Nurse Education. The multi-year gift which totaled more than $80,000 in support provided scholarships for students pursuing baccalaureate and doctor of nursing practice degrees.

The Details

Since the 2016-2017 academic year, the gift provided scholarships at each Wyoming community college to students who wanted to continue their education and pursue their bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Wyoming. Scholarships were also awarded to students in the UW Doctor of Nurse Practice program who intend to practice in a clinic setting in Wyoming after graduation. The BCBSWY Caring Foundation already funds scholarships for community college students interested in health professions and nursing through its Health Scholarship program.

The Impact

To date, twenty-seven students from across the state of Wyoming pursuing baccalaureate and doctor of nursing practice degrees have been recognized through the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming Scholars Program.

“Completing my ADN opened the door to my new career,” says Amber Beckwith, Cheyenne resident pursuing nursing as a second career path. “Obtaining a BSN is important because I plan to pursue a graduate degree in either public health nursing or nursing informatics." With the support of a scholarship from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming's Caring Foundation, Amber is able to pursue her BSN, which will give her the foundation she needs to continue her goals for higher education.

The 2018-2019 Wyoming Scholars

• Susan Brown -- Laramie, WY - Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• Jeff Shideman -- Laramie, WY – Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner

• Jesse Stark Morse-Brady -- Laramie, WY – Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

• Elizabeth Becking -- Powell, WY – Northwest College

• Amber Kitterman Beckwith -- Cheyenne, WY – Northern Wyoming Community College

• Murphy Haun -- Casper, WY – Casper College

• Maggie Kozlowski -- Gillette, WY - Northern Wyoming Community College District

• Allison Stevie -- Riverton, WY – Central Wyoming College

• Makayla Wilde -- Rock Springs, WY – Western Wyoming Community College

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About the Foundations

The University of Wyoming Foundation

The University of Wyoming Foundation, established in 1962, is appointed by the University Board of Trustees to raise, receive, and manage private gifts to maximize support for the University of Wyoming. It is an independent, nonprofit corporation with a Board of Directors comprised of up to 30 members.

Through the generosity of our many alumni and friends, the UW Foundation raises an average of $53.5 million a year in private support—funding that goes to students and the faculty, staff, and programs that support them.

The UW Foundation is a trailblazer. We are breaking through, setting a new standard for what a university foundation can accomplish. We think big, we embrace bold initiatives, and we strive to be the best in all that we do.

Why? Because we aren’t satisfied with the status quo. We’re always asking: how can we make it better?

To learn more about how we are breaking through, visit the UW Foundation’s Strategic Plan for 2018-2023.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield Caring Foundation of Wyoming

As a caring community, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wyoming has been involved in promoting the good health and wellbeing of Wyoming residents by participating in and contributing to many health related charities and causes. In 1990, BCBSWY established the Caring Foundation of Wyoming to help sustain this mission. The Caring Foundation of Wyoming now focuses its support through charitable giving.