2026 Next Step Scholarships

Empowering Methodist nurses to lead the future of care

Did you know these in-demand degrees are essential for the future of health care at Methodist?

 Doctor of Nursing: 

  • Adult Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
  • Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
  • Adult Gerontology Clinical Nurse Specialist
  • Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

Master of Science: 

  • Nurse Educator
  • Nurse Executive
  • Care Coordinator
Nursing Scholarships

Methodist Hospital Foundation is proud to invest in the future of nursing by supporting your Next Step in education.

13 Scholarships Awarded - ranging from $5,000 to $9,000

Complete one application to be considered for all three scholarships:

  1. Ruth Freed Leadership Scholarship – 1 award of $9,000 – focusing on nurse leadership
  2. Carolyn Scott Spirit of Excellence Scholarships – 8 awards of $8,000 – focusing on compassionate care
  3. Foundation Graduate Scholarships – 4 awards of $5,000 – focusing on compassionate care

Recipients will be selected and notified in May 2026.

Who is Eligible?

  • Methodist Hospital, Methodist Women’s Hospital, Methodist Physicians Clinic, Methodist Jennie Edmundson, and Methodist Fremont Health registered nurses seeking a Masters or Doctorate (DNP, PhD or EDD) degree
  • Scheduled to work 20 hours per week for the past two years
  • Employment status in good standing
  • Demonstrates compassionate bedside care, academic excellence, leadership qualities and a role model among nurses
  • Current NMC Nursing Academy students are not eligible to apply – you must be a graduate 

Online Application

DEADLINE: Monday, April 27, 2026

Application includes essays describing:

  • Personal story, goals, ambitions and accomplishments
  • Leadership
  • Community service
  • Education plan
  • Compassionate care

Letters of recommendation from a supervisor, co-worker and former patient are also required.

Apply Here

Additional Information

  • Scholarship recipients will serve as a mentor to a Scott Scholar – an undergraduate nursing student at Nebraska Methodist College
  • Scholarship recipients must show proof of enrollment in a graduate program
  • Funds must be used starting during the 2026-2027 academic year and spent in two years
  • Recipients must continue to work at least 20 hours per week while they receive the scholarship

Tips and Guidance

Find helpful hints and guidance for letters of recommendation here.

Questions?

Please contact RyAnne Elsesser at (402) 354-5430.