The Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, the founding congregation of Holy Name's Sister Claire Tynan School of Nursing in Teaneck, New Jersey, recently announced a $2 million pledge to endow a scholars program at the school.
The congregation announced the donation following a Eucharistic celebration on Oct. 12. The donation will endow the Mother Agatha Browne Spirit of Holy Name Scholar Program, which will help students pursuing degrees as registered nurses and licensed practical nurses.
Mother Browne founded Holy Name Medical Center and nursing school 100 years ago.
"She is remembered as a woman with great zeal, courage, and love for the congregation," Congregation Leader Sr. Andrea Nenzel said in a press release about the gift.
The endowment will provide four full scholarships annually and each will be named for a member of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace who graduated from the nursing school.
After graduation, the recipients will have the opportunity to transition into staff positions at the medical center.
"The state of New Jersey predicts a shortage of 11,400 nurses by 2030, the third highest in the nation," Sr. Susan Francois, assistant congregation leader and member of the medical center and foundation board of trustees, said in the release. She explained that the Holy Name program is strong, with 205 students enrolled this fall. She said graduates have high nursing licensure exam pass rates.
"We are extremely grateful to the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace for their generous and visionary support of our nursing students," said Holy Name's President and CEO Michael Maron. "With approximately 80% of these students relying on financial aid, we appreciate that the congregation recognizes the urgent need to assist talented and deserving students to pursue their calling in nursing."