WellSpan Health announced today it has launched a proactive approach to address the healthcare workforce challenges facing Pennsylvania and health systems across the nation. Through the WellSpan Scholars program, a collaboration with the Scholars Network, a leading talent recruitment network that connects students, schools and employers such as WellSpan, enrolled students who commit to joining WellSpan after completing their education can receive as much as $65,000 in financial assistance, depending on their role.

By alleviating the burden of educational debt, the program allows students to focus on building their skills and advancing their careers in healthcare.

“At WellSpan we’re committed to investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals to ensure the health and vitality of the communities we serve,” said Patricia Donley, senior vice president and chief nursing executive, WellSpan Health. “Programs like this are a critical part of our strategy to ensure we are there for our patients, to meet the growing need to continue delivering the exceptional care our patients have come to expect.”

Pennsylvania’s nursing shortage is among the most severe in the country. The commonwealth is expected to have a shortfall of 20,000 registered nurses by 2026, according to the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania.

The WellSpan Scholars program is a key part of WellSpan’s plan to develop a pipeline of highly qualified nurses who are deeply rooted in the local community. In 2024, WellSpan launched the Jersey College School of Nursing to create a new pathway for skilled talent and a bolstered workforce to meet rising care demands. The system also maintains a number of partnerships with local colleges to support nursing careers.

“Being able to complete my degree knowing I have a job secured after graduation and without the burden of increasing student loan debt is truly amazing,” said Emma Bobb, WellSpan Scholar.  “College is much less stressful now that I can dedicate my time to studying rather than working to pay for college. This experience has been such a blessing and played a huge part in my ability to become a registered nurse.”

The Scholars program is also eligible for medical imaging professionals and physical therapists, in addition to nurses. It provides financial support and connects students with the WellSpan team they will be joining before they graduate.

“From early engagement with WellSpan to personalized advising, Scholars are given the tools they need to thrive before and after they graduate,” added Donley. “This program allows us to attract and retain the best talent by offering meaningful career pathways and support structures that benefit both students and their future patients.”

Through the collaboration with the Scholars Network, WellSpan ensures the investment directly supports students who pursue careers in nursing, medical imaging, and physical therapy. The program emphasizes local decision-making with WellSpan oversight to train and deploy its future team members to the benefit of the local communities it serves.

Nearly 100 students have applied for the program since its launch earlier this spring.

To learn more about the WellSpan Scholars program visit https://scholars-network.com/wellspan/.