Columbus, OH,
12
May
2026
|
21:32 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

OhioHealth Berger Hospital Awards Record 35 Scholarships During National Nurses Week

OhioHealth Berger Hospital announced Thursday, May 7 that 35 associates received scholarships as part of its National Nurses Week celebration, the most scholarships ever awarded at the hospital. The scholarships support associates across nursing and non-nursing roles as they pursue degrees, certifications, and continuing education that will strengthen care for patients and families in Pickaway County.

This year’s recipients represent a wide range of departments and career goals. Scholarship winners include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, patient support assistants, patient registration representatives, surgical technologists, nurse managers and clinical educators. Their educational paths range from practical nursing and associate degrees to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as specialty certifications and professional conferences.

Recipients were recognized during Berger Hospital Hospital’s annual scholarship event on May 7. Awards were made possible through donor-supported funds at the OhioHealth Foundation that continue to invest in the hospital’s workforce and the future of community healthcare.

“This year’s scholarship recipients reflect the dedication, compassion, and ambition we see across Berger Hospital every day,” said Casey Liddy, president of Berger Hospital. “From bedside caregivers to team members preparing for leadership, teaching and advanced practice roles, these associates are investing in their future while continuing to care for our community. We are grateful for the donors whose generosity made this record support possible.”

Among the scholarships awarded was the Jack W. McGuire Memorial Nursing Scholarship, which recognized 20 Berger Hospital associates this year. Established by Jack McGuire’s family and the 9 O’Clock Coffee Club, the scholarship has grown to include an endowment that supports Berger Hospital nurses for years to come.

Berger Hospital donors and leaders pose with recipients of the Jack W. McGuire Memorial Nursing Scholarship awardees at the hospital on May 7.

“Jack believed in this hospital and in the people who care for this community,” said Ellery Elick, retired Pickaway County Treasurer and member of the 9 O’Clock Coffee Club. “It means a great deal to see that support continue through education. When we invest in nurses and healthcare workers, we invest in the health of our neighbors.”

Additional scholarships included the Berger Hospital Gift Shop Nursing Scholarship, funded through the work of longtime hospital volunteers; the Berger Hospital Nursing Excellence Scholarship, supported by community donors and OhioHealth associates; the Friends of Berger Hospital Scholarship, which supports non-nursing associates pursuing technical and clinical education; and the Berger Hospital Medical Associates Nursing Scholarships, funded through a gift from Berger Hospital Medical Associates.

The 35 scholarship recipients are: Stephanie Bailey, Paige Dailey, Kourtni Daniels, Brandy Dickson, Brooklyn Dingess, Dave Drury, Kelsey Dyer, Elleot Eitel, Gabby Gray, Lori Hamann, Dakota Jenkins, Kelcie Jennings, Macy Jones, Sara Keaton, Belinda Knotts, Maria Lanane, Meagan Landrum, Michelle Largent, Kris Mendenhall, Holly Muth, Terra Nardi, Alexis Patterson, Ashleigh Pennington, Heather Rice, Bailey Riffle, LaWanda Roberts, Shira Scherer, Lori Severt, Charity Smith, Stephnie Starling, Julia Sturgill, Courtney Timmons Rebecca Tussing, William Walters and Erin Wellman.

Individuals or businesses interested in supporting Berger Hospital scholarships through a charitable donation may contact Tara Gilts at Tara.Gilts@OhioHealth.com or (740) 566–4539.