Chaminade University awarded $2.2 million federal grant for nursing workforce development

The Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded a $2.2 million federal grant to Chaminade University’s Nursing Program for workforce development.

Chaminade University was the only institution in Hawai‘i to be awarded an HRSA grant this year, the university said.

“The funds will undoubtedly help address Hawaiʻi’s nursing shortage and support recruiting more nursing students from underrepresented groups,” said Chaminade University President Lynn Babington, who holds a doctorate degree in nursing.  

Under the grant, Chaminade’s Nursing program will improve outreach initiatives directed at underserved student populations in the state. The money will also be devoted to scholarships and to improve and expand Chaminade initiatives designed to better prepare incoming students for the demands of nursing school, including specialized readiness modules, financial assistance, mentoring and other academic support systems.

Aligned with HRSA’s mission under its Nursing Workforce Diversity program, the grant will be directed towards increasing the enrollment, progression and graduation of nursing students from disadvantaged racial, financial and cultural backgrounds.

Chaminade University’s undergraduate nursing degree program is a four-year program. Given the high demands and technical skills required of nurses, part of the funds will be used to provide messaging in the nursing school’s recruitment processes, helping high school students to better understand what it takes to become a nurse.

A portion of the funds will help expand “readiness modules” or specialized short courses to help students become better prepared for their nursing curriculum. The modules would align with the university’s strategic vision of ensuring a greater sense of belonging and well-being in students while improving their chances of academic success in the nursing program.