FOR RELEASE: March 11, 2024
GREAT FALLS, MONTANA – The University of Providence (UP) is proud to announce a partnership with Benefis Health System through the launch of the Boost UP for Nurses Program. This program will not only secure jobs for students after graduation, but address the nursing shortage surging across the country, brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The partnership between Benefis Health System and the Vander Werff Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program has the potential to reverse the ongoing shortage of nurses in Montana. By graduating more nurses each year, the University of Providence and Benefis Health System will bridge the gap in the nursing workforce and meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals,” said Dr. Joseph Cameron, Dean of the School of Health Professions at the University of Providence.
Students accepted into UP’s Vander Werff BSN program will be eligible to apply for the Boost for UP Nurses Program. Once approved, students may receive up to $30,000 paid in $15,000 increments over the final two semesters of the student’s time in the Vander Werff BSN program. Students who work at Benefis as registered nurses after graduation will receive forgiveness on their loan over a four-year period.
“One of the most significant advantages of the partnership is the financial benefit it brings to nursing students. Benefis Health System’s generous support will allow the University to provide economic resources to nursing students, making their education more affordable and accessible. This financial assistance not only alleviates the financial burden on students but also encourages others to pursue careers in nursing,” Dr. Cameron said.
“These nursing students are an important part of the future of healthcare in northcentral Montana, and we can’t wait to see the difference they make for patients and, we hope, for Benefis in the years to come,” said Rayn Ginnaty, president of Great Falls Hospitals.
The Boost UP for Nurses Program is one of the many ways Benefis and UP partner to provide healthcare education opportunities to students within the Great Falls community.
The University of Providence (UP) is a private, Roman Catholic Liberal Arts University founded in 1932 by the Sisters of Providence. The University of Providence honors the Sisters’ vision today by providing a mission-driven education to those that need it the most. UP is located in Great Falls, Montana and offers both undergraduate and graduate-level liberal arts programs and health programs. For more information, visit www.uprovidence.edu.
