Scholarship Program

In 2023, there were hundreds of applications from around the country submitted. Learn more about all 18 of our Summer 2023 Jean Griswold Foundation Scholars.

Congratulations to Our Most Recent Scholar Recipients. Watch their reactions when they first got the news!

Andrea Coulter, Chandler, AZ

I’m Andrea, and I’m originally from Boston and have lived in AZ almost 20 years. I have been a caregiver for 14 years. 2 years of that with the Griswold office. Caring for others is a true passion of mine. I have cared for many families, staying close to and in touch with many of them after the care needs have ended. I have wanted to go to school for many years, but couldn’t, due to being a single mother. Now I am pursing my CNA and then in the future I will apply for LPN school. I love putting smiles on clients’ faces and helping them with day-to-day tasks. It warms my heart to know I am making a difference in the lives of others.

Claudia Estrada, Bridgeport, CT

I have been working as a caregiver for over 22 years and have been with Griswold for 20 of those years! For many years I cared for my mother with cystic fibrosis and realized that caregiving was a true passion of mine. I will use this scholarship to further my education in becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).

"Being a caregiver is a true passion of mine but I know it is time to further my education and become a CNA and more!"

Casey Hart, Worton, MD

Through many trials and tribulations, I have kept pushing due to all the support and love from others which I am very grateful for. I am truly blessed and honored to be a part of the Griswold family. With this scholarship I hope to make not only my family proud but also my Griswold family proud and become the RN I have always wanted to be. Thank you for this opportunity to make my dreams come true.

Emily Lewi, Mesa, AZ

12 years working in the field of caregiving street smarts can only get you so far. 7 years with Griswold I have figured out that street smarts can only take you so far and this is the main reason that I want to get my CNA certification. I am able to accomplish this amazing goal with the support I have gotten with Griswold and the scholarship offered to me. With this amazing gift I will shine brighter than I have ever done before. I am actually humbled by receiving this scholarship, and I will not take it for granted and show myself and the people I care about that I can and will succeed. Others that work in my field can accomplish what I have by being hardworking, caring, and most of all have a passion for the profession.

“I just want to say that this door that is opening for me is going to advance my career and I cannot wait to see what it brings.”

Cora Lacy, Denver, CO

My name is Cora, I was born and raised in Colorado and have worked in healthcare for over 5 years now. I have worked with a variety of different populations and fields ranging from geriatric, developmentally disabled, I’ve dipped my toes into renal care & nephrology work, and of course here at Griswold as a caregiver. Each experience was and is unique and has further pushed me to achieve my nursing degree.

On my down time, I enjoy trying new breweries and restaurants, and most of all just being with my dog.

As far as my future goes, I’d like to start out as a nurse in a burn or dermatology unit and move into aesthetics. Traveling is also something I wanted to be able to with my job as well, and once I have gotten myself secure in the role as a nurse and some experience under my belt I hope to travel, even beyond the US to help others who may be lacking sufficient healthcare.

“First and foremost, I am filled with gratitude to have received this scholarship, every bit of help and encouragement while in school keeps the fire burning hotter and brighter until we reach our finish line.”

Valerie Meombe Mbolle, Tampa, FL

My name is Valerie and I aspire to become a nurse. The scholarship will assist me in purchasing essential nursing equipment and supplies, such as a stethoscope, scrubs, and clinical tools. These items are vital for my education and will enable me to actively participate in laboratory sessions and clinical rotations.

Also, I intend to allocate a portion of the scholarship towards practical experiences, such as volunteering in healthcare settings or joining student organizations related to nursing. These opportunities will allow me to gain hands-on experience, improve my communication skills, and develop a deeper understanding of patient care. In addition to my personal growth, I aim to utilize a portion of the scholarship to contribute to my community through healthcare outreach programs, such as medical missions and providing health education to underserved population.

Sarah Jalloh, Alexandria, VA

My name is Sarah Jalloh. I’m a student at Chamberlain University. I’m presently studying RN -BSN program. As a nurse, I am passionate about providing compassionate and quality care to patients. I believe in the power of education and continuous learning to enhance my skills and knowledge in healthcare. With this scholarship, I hope to further my education and acquire advanced training that will enable me to make a greater impact in patient care, contribute to research and innovation in the field, and ultimately improve healthcare outcomes for individuals and communities.

Bettina “Tina” Conde, Medford, MA

I am deeply grateful for the support your foundation has provided not only for me but to aspiring nurses in general. By investing in my education, you are not only investing in my future but also contributing to the advancement of healthcare and the betterment of society. I am committed to honoring your trust by striving for excellence in my academic pursuits and clinical practice.

I hope that one day, I will be able to give back to the nursing community and support future generations of aspiring nurses, just as you have done for me. Your generosity has inspired me to pay it forward and make it a positive impact in the lives of others.

“Once again, please accept my heartfelt gratitude for choosing me as one of your recipients for your Nursing scholarship. Your belief in my abilities and potential has given me an incredible boost of motivation and encouragement. I am truly honored to be associated with your esteemed organization and will carry this recognition with pride throughout my nursing career. “

Dominic Sardegna , Tampa, FL

Hi, my name is Dominic and I have been a CNA for the past five years, dedicating my time and energy towards making the lives of my dear elderly patients easier, healthier, and more fulfilled overall. With the generosity provided by the Jean Griswold foundation, I will be able to continue my nursing education whilst maintaining my current clients and those to come. I am very grateful for this opportunity and hope to further my contributions to the elderly and healthcare communities.

Sydney Brown, Edmond, OK

My name is Sydney Brown and I have been working as a CNA for 2 years now, beginning right after I graduated high school. I knew long before my high school graduation that I wanted to become a Nurse Practitioner. This job just verified my dream. I have just recently graduated with my Associate’s Degree in Liberal Studies from Redlands Community College. I will now use this scholarship to help me continue my education at UCO to get my bachelors in nursing.

Renee Kemp, Washington, DC

Since 2010, I have worked in the healthcare and education related sectors.

Currently I am a Certified Nursing Assistant and Geriatric Nursing Assistant in the state of Maryland. I work at John Hopkins Medicine Suburban Hospital as a Patient Care Technician I. I am also a student at University of the District of Columbia.

This scholarship will help me fulfill my dream of becoming a Registered Nurse. I want to support people as they heal and recover from their illness. I want my patients to feel loved when they are in my care, so they can focus on getting better.

Ke’Erra Hughes, Fridley, MN

My name is Ke’Erra. I’m a 23-year-old, single mommy- who has just finished an Associate’s Degree of Science in Human Services. My personality is fueled by an unyielding passion for knowledge and a burning desire to make meaningful impacts in vulnerable communities. For this upcoming fall semester, I will major in Human Services Administration & Leadership and minor in Organizational & Industrial Psychology. My long-term goals are to create a nonprofit organization that will provide assistance and shelter to battered women and vulnerable senior adults. Receiving this scholarship will not only help me better afford my education, but as a mom it helps me set foundation towards paving boundless possibilities for my kids’ future.

“As a professional, this scholarship overwhelms me with excitement about moving forward in my career to advocate and better serve both communities in need.”

Oumou Nabe, Plano, TX

My name is Oumou Nabe, I'm from Guinea in West Africa. I'm a mother of one. I'm also a full time Caregiver. I'm truly excited to have been selected for the opportunity that the company has given me. I hope to improve my knowledge and still help those who need me. And thanks to the Foundation, my dream of nursing others will truly become a reality. I want to thank the staff for considering me and congratulate those who were also selected. Thank you, From the bottom of my heart.

Anne Rosales, San Antonio, TX

I have worked in the Healthcare field since 2010.

I enjoyed each role I have had, which has allowed me the opportunity to learn different things and has lead me to my next goal.

I plan to use the scholarship to obtain an AAS in Community Health. I want to make a difference in the community I work in.

I am excited to embark on this next chapter in my life. I will have my three amazing daughters by my side rooting mama on.

Jasmine Ramirez, Medford, MA

I’m in my junior year in nursing school.

First job was working in a nursing home when I was 15yrs old that sparked my interest in being one that services others. Worked in the caregiver role as a PCA, a volunteer in the community, a Case worker, and a hospital tech for the last 15+ years. All roles helped me to learn more about myself as I gained additional knowledge, skills, and experience.

to being a better caregiver, that would better serve me as a great future nurse.

With this scholarship, it will help me to achieve both my educational and career goals, by granting me the time back to myself and to refocus on my academic studies by lowering the amount of hours I would have needed to work in order to pay for my school tuition.

“Truly, thank you to the Jean Griswold Foundation for this opportunity and believing in my future, but most importantly in me!”

Teresa Vaughan, Sacramento, CA

I started my healthcare journey as a senior in high school, where I got my CNA for my senior project. I have since been a dialysis technician for six years while working on my prerequisites for nursing school. I knew from a young age that I wanted to help care for people. Watching my brother get brain surgery at UCSF and the way the nurses cared for him cemented in me my desire to want to be a nurse. I got into nursing school in May of 2022, and I will graduate in August of 2024. This scholarship means the world to me as it will help me in my goal of becoming an RN.

“It is so humbling to be able to take care of my clients and the Jean Griswold Foundation helps individuals continue that journey. You have no idea how much I appreciate this scholarship! “

Elizabeth Fowler, East Moline, IL

I am Elizabeth, a recent high school graduate from UTHS in East Moline, IL. I received my CNA through a dual credit ECHO (Extended Campus Health Occupation) program. My future career choice is to become a Pediatric Oncology Nurse for a Children's Hospital (preferably St. Jude). This scholarship will provide me the opportunity to gain more education and experience and someday be able to impact the lives of patients and their families.

Kristofer Atkinson, San Antonio, TX

As a candidate selected for the scholarship, I am overjoyed at the opportunity to further my education. I came to the Griswold home healthcare company in search of Part- time employment to help supplement my professional Seminary journey. Prior to Joining the Griswold team, I work full-time as a chaplain for Texas department of criminal justice. When I joined with the Griswold Team, I joined a family that cared and time to fully invest in my needs as an employee. During my tenure with the company, I have been afforded many opportunities to continue my ministry calling as well as duties I have a while serving my local parish as an associate Minister. As a recipient of these prestigious scholarship, I look forward to furthering my education by pursuing Certification in clinical Pastoral education. It is my belief that this additional certification will assist me in better caring for our diverse clientele. I look forward to continuing to serve both my Griswold family as well as my community as I pursue my educational goals.