research, and practice and are working toward their doctoral degree. Prior to pursing her DNP, Ms. Alterson began her nursing career as a certified nursing aid, became an LPN, then received an associate degree, and earned her BSN. Her goal is to provide the best possible care to her patients through advanced practice nursing. Earning an associate degree in nursing, then a BSN, Ms. Graham completed her MSN at MUSC in 2011. She is currently teaching in the nursing program at Francis Marion University in Florence, SC and is the first person in her family to pursue collegiate education.
Elizabeth Stringfellow Scholarship Sheila Mason, Steven Schultz, and Lori Vick have been awarded Elizabeth Stringfellow Scholarships. Mrs. Stringfellow established this scholarship fund in honor of her aunt, Mrs. Marguerite Andell. Mrs. Andell was a College of Nursing graduate (1913), and later became a faculty member. Mrs. Andell began the area’s first midwifery clinic and educated countless nurses. Mrs. Stringfellow shared that “my aunt was always there for anyone who needed her help—it is my way of giving back for her kindness.” Ms. Mason is a DNP student enrolled in the pediatric nurse practitioner track. During 2011 and 2012, she spent three weeks serving the population of Pemba and Northern Mozambique. In 2011, she was invited to join round table meetings at the Ghanaian Embassy regarding health issues in northeast Ghana. She hopes to play a vital role as a leader in global health. Mr. Schultz, ACC BSN student, is a chiropractor and yoga instructor. He volunteers his knowledge and provides lectures to various
classes and labs in the nursing undergraduate curriculum. Ms. Vick, PhD student, lives in Iowa where she teaches nursing at a local community college. Actively involved in her students’ learning, she also is dedicated to their character development and community involvement.
J. William Thurmond Scholarship Wayne Wilkins, DNP student, is the recipient of the Dr. J. William Thurmond Scholarship. The late Senator Strom Thurmond initiated this scholarship in honor of his brother. Mr. Wilkins began the DNP program fall 2013 and is committed to working with patients to achieve a healthier lifestyle. The role of a family nurse practitioner is a departure for Mr. Wilkins, who originally worked in ICU environments.
Lettie Pate Whitehead The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation is a charity dedicated to the support of women in nine southeastern states. The foundation provides scholarship grants to deserving female nursing students. The following students were selected for a Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship for the fall 2013 semester: Heidi Atkinson, Meghan Behlmer, Deborah Camack, Lisa Carraher, Ellen Cary, Hannah French, Brittany Gaskins, Candace Jaruzel, Felicia Jenkins, Valerie Kneece, Carley Lovell, Erin May, Madison McMackin, Amy Osguthorpe, Michelle Orr, Shanice Strobhart, and Anna Williford.
Jean P. Wilson Scholarship
nutrition from Clemson University. Ms. Felkl hopes that by becoming a family nurse practitioner she will be able to work together with other health care professionals and improve the quality of care provided in South Carolina.
Inaugural Thomas J. Wiscarz Scholarship Jacob Fountain, ACC BSN student, is the first recipient of the Thomas J. Wiscarz Scholarship. Dean Gail Wiscarz Stuart established this scholarship in honor of her brother, Thomas J. Wiscarz. Mr. Wiscarz was a great role model for someone committed to living life, giving to others and cultivating friendships. Passionate for sports, he was the timekeeper for the Chicago Bulls during their decade of greatness. Sadly, colon cancer took his life in 2005. While in treatment he came in constant contact with nurses, and especially bonded with the male nurses who cared for him. This scholarship is a tribute to the generosity of friends and family and allows him to “give back to others” for years to come. Mr. Fountain earned his bachelor’s and master’s degree from The Citadel. He is a member of the South Carolina National Guard, and served in Afghanistan. He was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal for his outstanding commitment to mission and superb work ethic, sustaining a high level of job performance, and exemplary communication skills and situational awareness. A role model for his peers, he has been active in the Men in Nursing group, and initiated an organization to provide support to veterans’ and their spouses in the College of Nursing.
Lindsey Felkl, DNP student, received the Jean P. Wilson Scholarship. Ms. Felkl, a 2012 summa cum laude graduate of the ACC BSN program, also previously received a degree in
Fall | Winter 2013
Lifelines
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