In 2024 we received 2740 completed applications for bursaries and distributed 886 bursaries for a total value of $901,000.
We are very grateful to the many donors who make this work possible and the grant from the Ministry of Health which allowed up to distribute significantly more support to nursing students.. Without the support from all sources, none of this work would be possible. We also thank all the nurses and nursing students who applied for support. We wish each and every one of you success in your studies and your future career.
Here are some excerpts from letters of thanks which illustrate what support from RNFBC means to our students.
….”I am in the first term of my Nurse Practitioner master’s program at UBC.
‘”I am currently working part-time as a registered nurse while studying, within Vancouver General Hospital on the Burn’s Trauma High-Acuity Unit. My intention for continuing and furthering my education is to gain skills and knowledge that will allow me to ameliorate the primary care deficit that profoundly exists within BC.
Although my mind remains open to working in various clinical settings, I have a strong passion for providing equitable care to Vancouver’s marginalized youth. My previous work experience with Directions has elucidated the need for trauma and violence informed, person-centered care within this population, which I seek to provide upon graduation.
I greatly appreciate your assistance and will undoubtedly translate this financial aid into compassionate care for our population.”
Vancouver General SoN Alumnae Association Bursary
“I am currently in Term 7 of the Langara College Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. After graduation, I plan to pursue further certification in Reproductive Health. I want to do this so that I can directly help street-involved women in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver. I believe that by providing education and compassionate care to patients, I can help empower those that are vulnerable. Thank you again for your generous gift.”
Frederick & Elizabeth Willett Estate Bursary
” I would like to start off this letter by introducing myself. I am a first-year nursing student at CNC and will be graduating from UNBC. I was born in Pemberton, B.C, and have remained in the Okanagan ever since.
Having been accepted to CNC, the question became how badly I wanted to become a nurse, and was it is worth leaving my partner, and my friends and family to move to northern B.C. After much thought (and tears) I decided that I would move up North to Quesnel. I am now halfway through my first semester and I can safely say that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.
Receiving this Bursary means so much to me, as it connects me to my paternal grandmother or, as I know her, “Granny,” and even though she is not here to watch me explore my career in nursing, I hope she knows that she has helped me get here in many ways and that this Bursary is just one more leg up to join the noble profession of nursing.
Lastly, I would like to say a genuine thank you to the Vancouver General SoN Alumnae Association, for providing me with this great help to cover the financials of my education and providing more comfort to me living alone, away from everything familiar to me. I will be applying the bursary to my tuition for next semester. And I hope to make the association, and my Granny proud, and thank you again for this opportunity.”
Vancouver General SoN Alumnae Association Bursary
“I want to express my sincere gratitude for this generous donation. This financial support makes a significant contribution to educational journey and relieves financial burdens. Your generosity not only helps me pursue my passion for nursing but also inspires me to give back to the community. The story of Ruth McIIrath is truly inspiring and beautiful, and I am honored to be chosen to receive this bursary. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and hope to honor this generosity by selflessly caring for and serving others as a nurse.”
McIlrath Memorial Bursary
“As part of the Informatics Health Equity Lab at UBC-O, under the mentorship of Dr. Charlene Ronquillo, I am involved in important research on the intersection of technologies (including AI) and nursing practice. Being a part of this work is important to me because, historically, nurses have been required to implement things when they are rarely asked to be involved in the process. I am constantly awed by the efforts to advocate for the needs of nurses at the point of care, which are still poorly considered in the design, development and implementation of health information systems and technologies. One of my overarching goals in my career is to make sure the voices of nurses are heard. Thank you for this support. Your generosity allows me to continue my research and contribute to advancing the field of nursing and health equity.”
Royal Jubilee SoN Alumnae Association Bursary
“I have moved from my small hometown Old Masset, Haida Gwaii to continue my education. My commitment to my studies is fueled by a deep passion for providing quality healthcare, driven by my desire to help my people and make a positive impact in my community. I hope to become a nurse practitioner at the end of my educational endeavors, with the goal of weaving holistic and traditional medicine into the foundation of western medicine. I find encouragement in the support of my instructors and the collaborative spirit of my peers, and I draw inspiration from dedicated healthcare professionals who make a difference in their communities. I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation for the support I have received, as it has significantly impacted my educational experience and future aspirations.”
Indigenous Nurse Education Bursary
“The history of your bursary aligns with my passion for addressing systemic health inequities. Your support not only affirms the importance of this work but also provides me with the resources to continue pursuing my research and advocacy in this area. I am inspired by the opportunity to contribute to a more equitable healthcare system, and your generosity brings me one step closer to that goal. Thank you once again for this support.”
Bellis and Children and Women’s Health Centre Bursary
“Learning about the history of the South Fraser Chapter 2004 Bursary reinforces my appreciation for the generous donors who believe in the potential of nursing students like me. Your support not only helps me financially but also reminds me of the importance of giving back to the community in the future. Thank you once again for your incredible support. It means so much to me and makes a significant difference in my educational journey. I look forward to one day contributing to the nursing profession and helping future students as you have helped me.”
South Fraser Chapter 2004 Bursary
“Receiving the Sinn-Archibald Memorial Bursary has not only alleviated some of the financial pressures associated with my education but has also strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in psychiatric nursing. This bursary’s long-standing legacy in supporting nursing students is deeply meaningful, and I am honoured to be a part of it. Your generosity has reaffirmed my commitment to giving back to the community and advocating for mental health awareness and care.”
Sinn-Archibald Memorial Bursary
“A recent BScN graduate from Langara College, I am working as in the postpartum unit at Burnaby Hospital. Pursuing a specialized area of nursing straight out of school has always been my aspiration, but it has also brought substantial financial challenges. Next spring, I will complete my specialty training to become a labor and delivery nurse, which truly feels like a dream come true.
This bursary is of particular importance to me because, not only did my grandmother graduate from the Vancouver General Hospital SoN in 1966, but my great-grandmother did as well in 1938.
Please accept my sincerest thanks once again for your invaluable support. I look forward to making a positive impact as a new grad nurse in the nursing field and hope to honour your support throughout my career.”
Vancouver General SoN Alumnae Association Bursary
“Receiving this bursary not only alleviates the financial burden of my studies but also reinforces my commitment to this vital work. I am honored to be associated with the RNFBC, an organization with a rich history of supporting nursing students and advancing the profession in British Columbia. Thank you once again for your generosity and for investing in my future as a nursing professional. Your support brings me one step closer to achieving my goals and making a positive impact in our community.”
Sutherland Bursary
Receiving this bursary means the world to me; it has significantly alleviated my financial stress during this transitional phase as I complete my orientation and prepare for the NCLEX. This support brings me peace of mind, knowing I have the encouragement of generous donors like you, who believe in the future of nursing. I am sincerely grateful for your generosity. Your contribution is making a meaningful difference in my educational journey, and I am committed to honoring it by striving to become the best nurse I can be.”
