O’Bleness Gift Will Help Students Pursue Healthcare Careers

A $500,000 donation from OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital to the J. Warren McClure Athens Education Foundation will establish the OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital Scholarship. The scholarship supports Athens City School District students who wish to pursue careers in healthcare.

“Health care professionals are not only in-demand, but the field includes a wide range of specialties requiring different skills and levels of education,” said O’Bleness president LeeAnn Lucas-Helber. “Careers in health care provide opportunities for growth and professional development, but some students may need additional support to pursue education in the field. It is exciting to be able to help students in our region enter this field, inspire them to continue learning, and to enhance care in our community.” 

In any given year, 40 percent or more of graduating seniors at Athens High School would be eligible for the highest levels of Federal Financial Aid, however those dollars often do not cover the full costs of post-secondary training or degrees.

“Scholarships make a real difference in the lives of hardworking students. They can help lessen the financial strain of school and help students concentrate on the most important thing: learning,” said Tom Gibbs, Athens City School District superintendent. “For many students in Athens, a scholarship is the difference between pursuing higher education or not. With the OhioHealth O’Bleness Hospital Scholarship, we have one more important tool to help our students pursue their dreams.”

We’re proud to make this investment in the future of healthcare in Athens. Check out the Athens News’ coverage of the story by clicking the logo below.