Applications Open for 2025 VNHCH Kathleen Sheehan Memorial Scholarship

April 10, 2025

CONWAY, NH – Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice (VNHCH) is now accepting applications for the 2025 Kathleen Sheehan Memorial Scholarship. The $2,000 award supports college students pursuing a degree in nursing, physical therapy, or occupational therapy. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited program and reside in Carroll County, NH, or Western Maine. The application period runs from April 1 to May 31, 2025.

The scholarship honors Kathleen Sheehan, a dedicated VNHCH nurse and the agency’s first hospice administrator, who played a key role in establishing its hospice program. After her passing from cancer, VNHCH staff created this scholarship to continue her legacy of compassionate care.

Last year’s recipient, Liz Prior, is set to graduate in spring 2025 with a Direct Entry Master of Nursing – Clinical Nurse Leader degree from the University of New Hampshire. VNHCH Executive Director Sandy Ruka emphasized the importance of investing in future healthcare professionals:

“Nursing shortages became a serious challenge during and after the COVID pandemic, especially in small rural communities like ours. Many experienced nurses are retiring, and we need the next generation to step up. We were proud to award last year’s scholarship to Liz, and we encourage more students to apply for 2025.”

Applications must be submitted online by May 31, 2025, at www.vnhch.org/about/scholarship. Required materials include an essay, college transcript, and details on academic performance, work experience, and financial need.Visiting Nurse Home Care & Hospice of Carroll County and Western Maine is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, licensed in New Hampshire and Maine, and a Medicare-certified home health and hospice provider. Learn more at www.vnhch.org or call 603-356-7006.