Auxiliary Scholarships Continue to Open Doors

Did you know? Every time you make a purchase at Phelps Health’s Lily Pad Gift Shop, the Repeat Boutique or the Cafeteria, you could be positively impacting someone’s future.

Proceeds from these locations, along with commission from vending machines, and annual fundraisers and fairs, help support the Phelps Health Auxiliary and Volunteer Services scholarship program.

Each year, the Auxiliary awards scholarships to help students complete a licensed practical nurse (LPN), registered nurse (RN), Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or allied health program.

“The word ‘auxiliary’ means ‘help,’ and that’s what we aim to do,” said Sherry Elliott, Auxiliary second vice president and chair of the Auxiliary Scholarship Committee. “One of the most rewarding things we do each year is to provide scholarship assistance to those who have decided to work in the healthcare field. Often, these scholarships benefit Phelps Health as well. A majority of the scholarship recipients remain working for the organization after finishing their programs.”

For Kimberly Wagoner, who received an Auxiliary scholarship last year, the gift reaffirmed her belief in the power of community.

“As a mother, student and employee with ambitious dreams and limited financial resources, I found myself facing obstacles in pursuing higher education,” said Kimberly, who currently works as a registered medical assistant at Phelps Health. “The scholarship program gave me hope, providing an opportunity to overcome barriers and achieve my academic goals.”

A Desire to Help

From an early age, Kimberly remembers being fascinated by the field of healthcare.

“I was raised by my grandparents, and as they aged and required care, I took on a caregiver role,” she said. “I’ve always been drawn to the idea of helping others and making a positive impact on people’s lives. My grandmother also worked for and retired from Phelps Health.

“Phelps Health is like a second home to me. As a teenager, I spent my summers in these halls through the VolunTEEN program (where local teens volunteer in different areas at Phelps Health). Through my high school and Rolla Technical Center (RTC), I started my healthcare career in 2004 as a CNA (certified nursing assistant) and an EMT (emergency medical technician). When I graduated from high school, I was working as a CNA at a local nursing home.”

To apply for one of the several $2,000 Auxiliary scholarships awarded each year, students complete an application process that includes providing reference letters and a copy of their academic grades. Kimberly said the application process was user-friendly and straightforward, including the written and interview portions.

“Every board member was compassionate during my interview,” she said. “They provided adequate time between questions to allow me to gather my thoughts.”

A Marathon

In March 2024, Kimberly will graduate from Ottawa University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in healthcare management. (Phelps Health has a partnership with the university, which gives her a tuition discount.) Kimberly was previously enrolled in nursing school, but life intervened.

“During my second semester of RN school, my mother had two strokes, 30 days apart,” Kimberly said. “My focus shifted to caring for her, and unfortunately, I wasn’t able to complete the degree. After many sleepless nights and tough conversations, I realized that patients (like my mother) need someone in the background fighting for them. Everyone deserves to receive high-quality care with dignity. I became intrigued by the complexities of healthcare policies and regulations, realizing their impact on the delivery and accessibility of care.

"I am determined to combine my passion for healthcare and patients to create a lasting impact on the industry."

As a Phelps Health employee, Kimberly has been able to take advantage of the tuition reimbursement program, as well.

“I began my education journey in 2004,” said Kimberly, whose journey can best be described as a marathon.

“My associate’s degree absorbed my financial aid resources. I’m personally financing my bachelor’s degree, placing a strain on my finances. The [Phelps Health tuition] reimbursement program has allowed me to continue pursuing my education,” she said.

For students interested in applying for an Auxiliary scholarship, Kimberly said the process is well worth the effort.

“The scholarship program has opened doors to a network of mentors, alumni and fellow students,” Kimberly said. “The program’s emphasis on leadership development and community engagement has given me the confidence to take on leadership roles. With my financial burdens lightened, I’ve been able to fully immerse myself in my studies. The program also has given me a sense of gratitude and responsibility, motivating me to give back to my community and inspire others. I am so thankful for this scholarship.”