Release: Avella Introduces Bill to Establish State Nursing Scholarship

(QUEENS, NY) State Senator Tony Avella announced today he has introduced a bill (S.4431) in the Senate, authored by Assembly Member Aileen Gunther, that would create a New York State scholarship for nurses looking to pursue an advanced degree in their field and become a teacher.

The legislation establishes a scholarship for anyone who currently holds a professional nursing degree and is seeking a master’s or doctoral degree in the nursing field. In exchange for receiving the scholarship money, the individuals will agree to go on to teach nursing in one of New York State’s accredited nursing programs.

Many communities across New York State are experiencing a severe nursing shortage, due in part to the lack of professionals available to train them. The number of nurses with advanced degrees who are qualified and willing to teach is continuously dropping each year, and upcoming retirements will only enhance the problem. This scholarship will provide an incentive to nursing professionals to continue their education and help the nursing field grow by becoming teachers.

“It is no secret that many areas throughout our state are extremely underserved by nurses. While many current nurses may wish to pursue an advanced degree and move on to teach in their field, the rising cost of education poses a strong threat to that dream. This scholarship will help ease that financial burden while simultaneously ensuring that New York has a consistent population of nurses who are ready and willing to serve,” said Senator Avella.

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