Bower Foundation grant gives MCCers a financial boost
Thanks to the Bower Foundation, some Meridian Community College students are getting a financial helping hand as they work toward their career goals.
MCC students in health education and nursing programs are receiving vital support through the Bower Foundation Grant, which funds the Helping Healthy Eagles initiative.
The $113,000 award helps students in their final or second-to-last semester complete their programs by covering essential costs, including tuition, textbooks, supplies, uniforms, childcare, licensing exam fees, and emergency expenses such as rent and utilities.
Qualifying students, known as Bower Scholars, can apply for up to $1,000 per semester. Funds are paid directly to service providers to ensure immediate needs are met.
“MCC is very thankful for the continued support from the Bower Foundation,” said Kimberly Rush, MCC associate dean of advising, retention, and student success. “Through this grant, MCC is able to improve the lives of students by helping them reach their career goals.”
Rush said the grant was initially funded through the Bower Foundation and managed by the Women’s Foundation of Mississippi.
“In 2021, MCC was the first recipient of this grant after several discussions about the nursing shortage in Mississippi and how to improve persistence, retention, and graduation rates of nurses and other healthcare professionals,” Rush said.
Wendy Cox, MCC support services coordinator, works closely with these students and said the assistance can make a major difference.
“By reducing financial stress, the program allows students to focus on their coursework, clinical requirements, and licensure exams, improving retention, graduation rates, and timely entry into the healthcare workforce,” Cox said.
The initiative also benefits the wider community by helping prepare qualified healthcare professionals to fill critical roles in local hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. By strengthening the healthcare workforce, the program contributes to both access to care and the economic well-being of the region.
Cox said students must be in good standing, have exhausted other financial aid options, including loans, and not hold a degree or certificate beyond an associate of arts to qualify. MCC reviews applications, approves awards, and ensures funds are directed to intended expenses.
The Helping Healthy Eagles program demonstrates how targeted support can remove barriers, empower students to succeed, and address workforce needs, creating benefits that extend far beyond the classroom.
MCC President Dr. Tom Huebner said the College is grateful for the Bower Foundation’s support.
“MCC students absolutely benefit from these grant dollars,” Huebner said. “These dollars go a long way in allowing them to start and finish a goal they’ve had their entire lives.”
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu.