FLIP Nursing Scholarship Program

The FLIP Nursing Scholarship Program seeks to strengthen the pathway for culturally informed and community-centered nurses by supporting students pursuing nursing careers with a commitment to serving Tribal and rural communities with an emphasis on those interested in Indigenous health disparities. The scholarship is open to students currently enrolled in or accepted into an accredited associate or bachelor's degree nursing program and is designed to support those who demonstrate motivation to contribute meaningfully to the healthcare landscape in underserved areas.

Executive Summary

Program Purpose

The U.S. healthcare system continues to face a critical nursing shortage, which has only deepened in recent years. Indigenous communities, in particular, remain underserved—both in access to care and in the availability of culturally responsive providers. Though Indigenous populations face disproportionately high rates of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and mental health challenges, they remain significantly underrepresented in the nursing workforce—making up just 0.4% of all registered nurses.

This program is grounded in the belief that increasing the number of nurses who understand and reflect the cultural values of the communities they serve can lead to more effective, compassionate care. The National Academy of Medicine has noted that health professionals from diverse backgrounds are more likely to serve in underserved communities, improving access and outcomes.

Currently, many Tribal and IHS hospitals rely on short-term travel nurses with limited ties to the communities in which they serve. This scholarship aims to change that by empowering future nurses with the tools and financial support needed to build long-term, community-rooted careers.

Program Details

The FLIP Nursing Scholarship provides a stipend of $500 per month (prorated based on enrollment dates) for approved education-related expenses such as housing, transportation, food, and childcare. Funding is distributed retroactively at the end of each semester, pending verification of eligibility and submission of required documentation.

The scholarship is valid for one academic year, with the opportunity to reapply annually. Preference is given to applicants who express a strong interest in working in Indigenous or rural healthcare settings after graduation.

Selection Committee Members

Valerie Dobiesz, MD, MPH, FACEP

Director of FLIP

Anna Meyer, DNP, RN

Director of Nursing Collaboration for FLIP

Charlene C, Hollins, DNP, MSN, APPRN, FNP-C

Application Process

  • Application Requirements
    • Proof of being accepted or currently enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited nursing program (associate or bachelor’s degree level)
    • Proof of being in good academic standing to receive funds (passing grades of C or greater on all subjects)
    • Must submit two letters of recommendation that address applicants’ motivation and commitment to pursuing a career in nursing as well as willingness to contribute to their community (letters ideally should be from teachers who can speak to the candidate’s academic potential and should NOT be from family members). Applicants must reapply each academic school year to be eligible for funding.
    • Complete one essay (~250 words) on the applicant’s motivation to pursue a career in nursing and one essay (~250 words) regarding desire to give back to your community.
  • Timeline for application and selection process
    • Application Open:
    • Applications Close:
    • Awardee Notification:
    • Program Start Date:
    • Program End Date: