Hospice of Americus-Sumter County Georgia establishes nursing scholarship at GSW

AMERICUS, Ga. (Apr. 9, 2025) – The Hospice of Americus-Sumter County Georgia has announced the creation of a new scholarship aimed at supporting students enrolled in Georgia Southwestern State University’s (GSW) Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program. Designed to foster local talent and address the growing need for qualified healthcare professionals, the scholarship specifically targets non-traditional students with healthcare experience or those who are first responders from Sumter County and the surrounding region.

This scholarship initiative underscores a shared commitment to expanding access to nursing education and strengthening the local healthcare workforce. By prioritizing individuals already embedded in healthcare and emergency services, the fund supports career advancement and ensures that compassionate, experienced caregivers remain within the community.

GSW’s ASN program continues to grow rapidly. The inaugural cohort celebrated the graduation of 32 students in July 2024. The second cohort, currently underway, includes 50 students scheduled to graduate in July 2025. The program’s third cohort—also consisting of 50 students—is set to begin in May 2025.

For more information about the ASN program, visit gsw.edu/ASN or the College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CONHS).

Pictured left to right are hospice director Mikki Ferguson; GSW Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs Dr. Teresa Teasley; GSW Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences Dr. Courtney Ross; and hospice directors Bill Sheppard; Carol Hudson; Carolyn Myers; and Susie Henderson.