The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) Scholarships

The National Black Nurses Association (NBNA) is an organization that aims to empower and encourage Black students interested in pursuing a career in nursing. They recognize the importance of addressing the disparity that exists in the profession and has taken proactive measures to support aspiring Black nurses through its robust scholarship program.

The NBNA was founded in 1971 and is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the professional and educational development of Black nurses. The NBNA’s involvement in advocacy has made great to eliminate health disparities and improve healthcare outcomes for minority populations. Through various initiatives, the association empowers Black nurses to excel in their careers and make significant contributions to the healthcare industry.

Types of NBNA Scholarships

• Dr. Lauranne Sams Scholarship: This scholarship is named in honor of Dr. Lauranne Sams, a former Dean and Professor of Nursing, School of Nursing, Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama. She was a trailblazing nurse leader. The scholarship supports NBNA members based on scholastic achievement, financial need and community involvement. The scholarship amount is $5000 and is renewable.
• Martha A. Dawson Genesis Scholarship: Dr Martha A Dawson is a highly recognized national and international global thought leader in the field of nursing and health systems administration. She was the 13th President of NBNA, and the scholarship is aimed at supporting nursing students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree.
• NBNA Scholarships for Undergraduate Students: NBNA offers scholarships for undergraduate nursing students, encouraging those at the beginning of their academic journey to pursue excellence in nursing education.
• Post-Baccalaureate Scholarship Program: Geared towards those who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field but are pursuing a second degree in nursing, this scholarship facilitates career transitions into nursing.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Process

1. Applicants are required to be registered members of the NBNA to be considered eligible for the scholarship. Membership ensures a commitment to the values and goals of the association.
2. Interested applicants are expected to demonstrate academic excellence by providing documents that show their academic achievements in past years. This may include having a competitive GPA, an essential eligibility criterion. These students must also continue to show excellence after being awarded the scholarship.
3. Leadership and Community Involvement: NBNA places importance on leadership qualities and community involvement. Applicants are encouraged to showcase their extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and leadership roles.
4. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants are usually required to submit letters of recommendation from individuals who can attest to their character, academic capabilities, and commitment to nursing.
5. Personal Statement: A well-crafted personal statement is a crucial component of the application process. It allows applicants to articulate their passion for nursing, career goals, and the impact they hope to make in the healthcare field.
6. Deadline Adherence: Applicants must adhere to the specified application deadlines. It is essential to carefully review the requirements for each scholarship and submit all materials on time.

The Impact of the NBNA Scholarship on the Future of Healthcare

• By supporting Black nursing students, NBNA Scholarships contribute to the broader goal of addressing disparities in healthcare. Increasing the number of Black nurses helps create a more representative and culturally competent healthcare workforce.
• Leadership Development: The scholarships not only provide financial support but also foster leadership development among Black nursing students. As scholarship recipients advance in their careers, they become influential leaders and advocates for health equity.
• Community Outreach and Engagement:   NBNA Scholars often engage in community outreach, bringing healthcare awareness and services to underserved communities. This grassroots approach helps bridge gaps in healthcare access and empowers communities to take charge of their well-being.
• Inspiring Future Generations: The success stories of NBNA Scholars serve as inspiration for future generations of Black nursing students, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles in the pursuit of excellence in nursing.

Categories of NBNA Scholarships

• Undergraduate Scholarships: NBNA offers scholarships for students pursuing undergraduate degrees in nursing. These scholarships are open to individuals who have been accepted into accredited nursing programs.
• Graduate Scholarships: Graduate scholarships are available for Black nursing students pursuing advanced degrees in nursing, including master’s and doctoral programs. These scholarships support the academic and research endeavors of aspiring nursing leaders.
• Continuing Education Scholarships: NBNA provides scholarships for registered nurses seeking to advance their education through continuing education programs. These scholarships support ongoing professional development and specialization within the nursing field.
• Research Scholarships: Recognizing the importance of research in advancing nursing practice, NBNA offers scholarships to support Black nursing students engaged in research projects. These scholarships contribute to the growth of evidence-based practice and innovation in healthcare.

Success Stories

Alumni Achievements: Many recipients of NBNA Scholarships have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their nursing careers. Their stories serve as inspiration for future scholarship applicants, demonstrating the transformative impact of financial support and mentorship.

Community Contributions: NBNA Scholars often contribute significantly to their communities by becoming leaders in healthcare, educators, and advocates for health equity. The scholarships not only benefit individual recipients but also contribute to the overall improvement of healthcare outcomes in Black communities.