Mille Lacs Area Health Foundation Supports Students with Healthcare Scholarships

The Mille Lacs Area Health Foundation is committed to fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals through its annual scholarship program. Each year, the Foundation offers two $1,000 scholarships to graduating seniors from four area schools: Isle, Onamia, Milaca, and Nay Ah Shing. This initiative supports students pursuing careers in healthcare, ensuring a well-trained workforce for the future.

The first scholarship, the $1,000 General Healthcare Scholarship, is available to students planning to pursue degrees in any healthcare-related field. Eligible programs include, but are not limited to, chiropractic care, medicine, dentistry, and allied health professions. This scholarship assists students in achieving their educational goals while encouraging a commitment to the healthcare sector.

The second, the Clareen Wilson-Nyquist RN Scholarship—funded by Isle native Jeremy Nyquist—specifically supports students aspiring to become Registered Nurses (RNs). Established to honor the dedication of nurses in the medical field, this $1,000 scholarship aims to inspire future professionals to pursue this vital career path. Graduating seniors from Isle, Onamia, Milaca, and Nay Ah Shing who plan to become RNs are encouraged to apply.

Notably, students pursuing a career as an RN may apply for both scholarships, maximizing their chances of receiving financial assistance.

In addition to these scholarships, the Foundation also administers the Beth Cunz Scholarship, exclusively available to Mille Lacs Health System employees pursuing a nursing degree. Established by her husband, Tom, in memory of Beth Cunz—a dedicated nurse who served MLHS for many years—this scholarship honors her legacy by supporting healthcare professionals advancing their education in nursing.

Applications can be submitted online at www.mlahf.org/scholarships. The submission deadline this year is April 7. Once the application period closes, the Foundation’s Scholarship Committee will carefully review all submissions and select recipients based on their qualifications and career aspirations.

Through this scholarship program, the Mille Lacs Area Health Foundation reaffirms its commitment to investing in the future of healthcare by supporting students passionate about making a difference in their communities. By easing financial burdens and providing encouragement, this initiative helps young professionals take their first steps toward impactful and rewarding careers in the medical field.

For more information on eligibility and application details, students are encouraged to visit the Foundation’s website.