Scholarship for nursing student allows her to continue studies

In the 11th hour, a nontraditional nursing student learned she earned a scholarship that allows her to continue her studies toward a bachelor's degree.

Lisette Wilson received a $7,000 scholarship from Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital. The Mary Free Bed Minority Scholarship goes to qualified students of color who are majoring in nursing or health professions and who have made a commitment to serving diverse populations.

Wilson enrolled in the Kirkhof College of Nursing in 2013, after working for two decades at Michigan Bell Telephone Company.

“After 20 years at the phone company, my desire to become a nurse was still there,” Wilson said. “When the opportunity arose, I took early retirement and enrolled in college the next day.”

She said the scholarship money was essential for her to continue her studies. “I only have grant money left to pay for my last year of school, and it wasn’t enough,” she said. “With this, I won’t have to worry anymore.”

Wilson also works as a patient care provider at Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services. She is a member of the Student Nurses Association and Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society.

Sally Stockdale, affiliate faculty member of nursing, said it was gratifying to see Wilson earn this award and be recognized for her dedication and hard work.

“Besides the rigors of nursing school, Lisette wears many hats: wife, mother of three, grandmother, and volunteer for many community and church events,” Stockdale said. “She handles all these responsibilities and makes it look easy.”