Healthcare Scholarship: National Black Nurses Association (NBNA)
Overview of the National Black Nurses Association
Since the early 1970s the National Black Nurses Association, or NBNA, has worked to build a better healthcare community for black individuals in need of help and the professionals who toil to provide quality care. Born amidst the energy of the Civil Rights Movement in 1971, the NBNA has grown to more than 150,000 members across America over the hard work of more than four decades. Today, the NBNA continues working to improve the quality of health while working to support future professionals through a variety of scholarship awards designed to enable nurses to further their education. Scholarship values range widely and are awarded yearly to students currently enrolled in a nursing program.
In order to qualify as an applicant, students must be in good scholastic standing at their current institution while enrolled in a nursing program. The applicant must also have at least one full year of studies remaining in the program in order to be eligible. The final requirement before the acceptance of an application is current membership at a local chapter of the NBNA. If a student does not live within reasonable distance to a chapter (a 50 mile radius) then they may apply to become a direct member of the organization.
Since scholarships are awarded yearly, the opportunities offered by the NBNA are available for application regularly. Application deadlines for the current year’s scholarships are in mid April with the awards made available for students selected for the following school year. Application materials include an official transcript from the currently enrolled nursing program reflecting a strong scholastic record. Two letters of recommendation are also required, one from the applicant’s school, the second from the local chapter of the NBNA. If no chapter exists in the area then a letter from a local nurse is also acceptable. Finally, a two page essay detailing the student’s involvement in their local community as an individual and a professional while reflecting on the current state of healthcare in the black community is required for an application to be considered. Up to date information about current scholarship opportunities are available on the NBNA’s website.
If selected, students may receive anywhere between $1,000 and $6,000 depending on the scholarship they are awarded. Awardees are invited to the Annual Institutes and Conference to accept their scholarship. Scholarships are awarded after submitting a thank you letter and current information, so the NBNA can remain informed about your continuing education and professional experience afterward. For more information about the incredible opportunities provided by the NBNA to nursing students, contact your local chapter or the national organization today.
