WVU Medicine Uniontown welcomes six to Aspiring Nurse Program
WVU Medicine Uniontown Hospital celebrated the future of nursing this month by welcoming six aspiring nurses to its Aspiring Nurse Program during the hospital’s third annual signing ceremony.
Launched in 2023, the innovative workforce development program invests in the next generation of nurses by providing eligible participants with a stipend of up to $25,000 while they complete nursing school. In return, participants commit to working at Uniontown Hospital for three years after earning their nursing degree.
The program helps address the growing need for registered nurses while creating opportunities for local students to pursue rewarding healthcare careers without leaving the communities they call home.
This year’s Aspiring Nurse Program class includes: Aarionna Cooper of Hibbs, Penn State University – Fayette; Emily Dillinger of Brownsville, Westmoreland County Community College; Colton Houseman of Belle Vernon, Penn State University – Fayette; Charlene King of Uniontown, Westmoreland County Community College; Mya Loukota of Uniontown, Penn State University – Fayette; and Ashli Shaffer of Fairchance, Westmoreland County Community College.
“Our Aspiring Nurse Program reflects our commitment to investing in people and strengthening healthcare throughout our region,” said Karyn Wallace, president and CEO of Uniontown Hospital. “By supporting these outstanding students as they pursue their nursing education, we’re helping remove financial barriers while building a pipeline of compassionate, highly skilled nurses who will care for our community for years to come.”
Since its launch in 2023, the Aspiring Nurse Program has become an important investment in the future of healthcare in southwestern Pennsylvania. By helping students achieve their educational goals while creating a pathway to employment, Uniontown Hospital is strengthening its nursing workforce and ensuring patients throughout Fayette County and the surrounding region continue to receive exceptional, compassionate care for years to come.