Kayla Dickinson

Florida Southwestern student Kayla Dickinson was one of the 22 recipients in Lehigh Acres to be awarded grants and scholarships from Lee Health.

Lee Health awarded a total of $269,250 to 172 individuals within Southwest Florida.

The grant was a stress reliever for Dickinson, and she can now continue her dream of being a registered nurse.

“My plan is to put my scholarship towards the cost of the nursing program I’m enrolled in,” Dickinson said. “Rasmussen is quite expensive, so I truly appreciate this grant. I’m proceeding to becoming an RN once I graduate because my overall dream career revolves around helping people. That’s what I have always wanted to do in life.”

She has a specific interest in birth.

“The field that interests me the most is labor and delivery,” Dickinson said. “The thought of caring for a mother at her most stressful and exciting time of her life is what brings a smile to my face. Every job has its ups and downs, but to have the privilege of bringing a life into this world is what I would look forward to every day.”

To do this, Dickinson is going to hit the books and study hard.

“Becoming both an educated and caring nurse takes time, which also brings sacrifices I’m willing to make,” Dickinson said. “I also don’t just want to just be book smart. I want to bring out the best care to my ability, so I can use both skills when I’m on the hospital floor.”

She is very appreciative of the grant and looks forward to her studies.

“(Lee Health) truly cares about the future and generations,” Dickinson said. “They want people to all have the opportunity to achieve in life and are willing to help in any way. I am honored to be a person they chose to help me get me to my future nursing career.”

Lee Health has given a total $3,400,114 worth of grants and scholarships since 1990.

For a student to obtain a scholarship or grant, they would have to go through the application process by visiting: LeeHealth.org in April and May.

“New applicants are required to make an appointment to drop off their application, to go over the application, discuss their goals and possible employment after degree completion,” Marilyn Felton, education assistance and grants coordinator for Lee Health, said via an email.

The grant committee convenes in July to select applications, and the grants are sent out in August.

Requirements for the application:

– Completed application

– Two recommendations

– 500-word essay

– School transcripts

– Proof of enrollment

– Income tax information

– Statement of finances (showing financial need)

– Signed agreement that states they will work for Lee Health upon receiving their degree

Lee Health wants to continue to help local students who want to get into the medical field.

“Costs associated with attending college or universities can be a barrier for individuals seeking higher education; the grant program can help reduce the financial burden,” Felton said. “Lee Health benefits from a larger resource pool of graduates to fill critical positions in nursing, physical therapy, and many other areas of health care. The grant program also fosters and supports a culture of continuous learning for existing staff.”