March 2025
Scholarships that Make a Lasting Impact
On March 19, 2025 by Ben Hansen
The LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation is committed to enhancing the experience of aging by investing in the professional development of caregivers and employees within the aging services sector. A cornerstone of this commitment is the Foundation's annual scholarship program, which provides financial support to individuals pursuing higher education and career advancement in aging services.
2025 Scholarship Program
In 2025, the Foundation is offering over $50,000 in educational scholarships to eligible caregivers and employees of its member organizations. Scholarship awards range from $500 to $2,500, reflecting the Foundation's dedication to supporting the workforce that serves Minnesota's older adults.
Helping Caregivers Pursue Excellence
Our scholarship program truly makes a difference. Below, Benard Ombati shares his gratitude for being selected as a 2024 scholarship recipient.
I am overwhelmed with gratitude and joy upon learning that I have been selected as a recipient of the 2024 LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation Scholarship. It's an incredible honor to be chosen from among such a talented and competitive pool of applicants.
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the Foundation Scholarship Committee for recognizing my potential and supporting my academic career pursuits. This Scholarship is more than just a financial award - it's a vote of confidence in my abilities and motivation to continue striving for excellence.
Your investment in my future means the world to me and I promise and commit to make the most of this opportunity. Thank you once again for this prestigious recognition. I am motivated to get going and make a positive impact.
Benard is a caregiver at the Pillars of Prospect Park in Minneapolis. He is pursuing an associate’s degree in Mental Health from Minneapolis Community and Technical College. He aspires to become a licensed mental health professional, specializing in gerontology.
Additional Scholarship Recipients
Emily Morrissey, Housing Administrator & Licensed Assisted Living Director with Benedictine in Cloquet. Emily is using Foundation scholarship funds to help her pursue her doctorate.
Evette Henderson, Resident Services Specialist at Ebenezer Tower Apartments in Minneapolis. Evette is using Foundation scholarship funds to pursue her Bachelor’s degree.
Dana Jones, Certified Nursing Assistant at Evergreen Knoll Senior Living in Cloquet. Dana is using Foundation scholarship funds to help pursue her Nursing degree at Winona State University.
Sarah Steinhauer, Licensed Practical Nurse at LifeCare Roseau Manor in Roseau. Sarah is using Foundation scholarship funds to help pursue an Associate of Science – Nursing degree at Northwest Technical College.
Conclusion
The LeadingAge Minnesota Foundation's scholarship program exemplifies a steadfast commitment to investing in the individuals who provide care and support to older adults. By facilitating educational and professional growth, the Foundation not only enhances the careers of caregivers but also enriches the quality of care within Minnesota's aging services sector. This initiative underscores the Foundation's mission to transform and enhance the experience of aging for all Minnesotans.
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