Scholarship money available for local students

Students in five area high schools could earn a $1,000 college scholarship, thanks to Mercy Health Foundation St. Francis. The Dr. Grace O. Doane scholarships are specifically for students interested in entering health care professions.

Dr. Doane was the first woman to graduate with a doctorate from Drake Medical School in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1913 with a specialty in ear, nose and throat. She became a benefactor to the Sisters at Mercy St. Francis Hospital, paying for everything from a car for them to drive to the hospital chapel and the Sisters’ house. She wanted her story to inspire others and established the scholarship fund before her death in 1980.

To qualify, students must be Missouri residents preparing for a career in a health care field and be classified as a senior at one of the following schools: Eminence High School, Liberty High School, Summersville High School, Willow Springs High School or Winona High School.

Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential through extracurricular activities and work experiences, and a need for financial assistance. Preference will be given to students who are planning to attend a Missouri college, university or technical school. Five scholarships will be awarded, one for each school with qualifying applicants.

Applications are available online at mercyhealthfoundation.net/communities/st-francis/ or in school counselors’ offices. In addition, students must provide an official high school transcript, three letters of recommendation and an essay of 500 words or less outlining their future career plans and goals. Applications must be postmarked or hand-delivered by April 1, 2023.

Mail to:

Mercy Health Foundation – St. Francis, ATTN: Stephanie Breedlove – Scholarships, 100 U.S. Highway 60, Mountain View, MO 65548

Applications will be reviewed by the Mercy Health Foundation – St. Francis board and scored independently. In the event of a tie, student interviews may be required.

For more information about the Dr. Grace O. Doane health care scholarships, call 417-533-6192.