Community Memorial Awarded Scholarship to Support Workforce Development

Community Memorial (CMH) is proud to announce it has received a grant from the Community Benevolent Foundation (CBF) to establish a scholarship program supporting employees who are pursuing a degree in nursing. The scholarship is designed to strengthen the local healthcare workforce by investing in the education, advancement, and retention of current staff.

As healthcare organizations nationwide face ongoing nursing shortages and increasing demands for care, access to nursing education has become more critical than ever. Nurses play a vital role in patient safety, quality outcomes, and compassionate, day-to-day care. Supporting employees who are pursuing nursing degrees helps ensure patients continue to receive skilled, consistent care from professionals who understand the unique needs of the community they serve.

Through this grant, eligible employees will receive financial assistance to reduce barriers to nursing education, allowing them to advance their careers while remaining part of the local healthcare system.

“Our employees are the heart of everything we do,” said Heather Bernard, Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Clinical Services. “This generous support from the Community Benevolent Foundation empowers our team members to grow their careers in nursing while continuing to care for patients right here in our community. Investing in our staff is an investment in the quality, compassion, and continuity of care our patients deserve.”

The scholarship program reinforces a shared commitment between CMH and the Community Benevolent Foundation to build a sustainable healthcare workforce, improve access to skilled nursing care, and support those who choose to serve their community through healthcare. “

More information about the scholarship program will be shared with employees in the coming weeks as the organization finalizes details to ensure the program is meaningful, equitable, and impactful. “We are deeply grateful for CBF’s partnership and shared commitment to strengthening healthcare through investment in people,” added Bernard.

About Community Benevolent Foundation
A private foundation supporting organizations in Madison County, focusing on healthcare, human services, and community projects.

About Community Memorial
CMH remains committed to improving health outcomes through education, prevention, and exceptional care. Community Memorial offers primary and specialty care across six locations—Hamilton, Cazenovia, Morrisville, Munnsville, Sherrill, New Hartford, Utica and Waterville—and continues to expand services to meet the needs of the region. To learn more about services or upcoming community events, visit www.communitymemorial.org.