Linda A. Hoover Nursing Scholarship
The 2024 recipient of the Linda A. Hoover Nursing Scholarship is Mary Maher, a nursing student at Rockhurst University.
“I want to support children battling cancer and help their families navigate the emotional and physical challenges of treatment”
As Mary Maher embarks on her studies for a nursing career, her aspirations are rooted in a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and their families during their most challenging moments. With her heart set on pediatric oncology and the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), Mary is determined to provide compassionate care that transcends traditional
medical treatment.
“My ultimate goal is to work in pediatric oncology or the NICU,” Mary explains with conviction. “In pediatric oncology, I want to support children battling cancer and help their families navigate the emotional and physical challenges of treatment. Similarly, working in the NICU would allow me to care for critically ill newborns and offer vital support to their families during a vulnerable time.”
To achieve these goals, Mary is dedicated to furthering her education and gaining specialized training in her chosen fields. She plans to pursue relevant certifications and attend workshops and conferences to stay informed about the latest research and best practices. Her focus on gaining hands-on experience through clinical rotations and internships reflects her commitment to becoming the best nurse she can be.
Receiving the Linda A. Hoover Nursing Scholarship has profoundly impacted Mary’s life, both personally and academically. “This scholarship has eased my financial worries, allowing me to focus more on my studies and clinical training,” she shares gratefully. “I’m incredibly appreciative of this support, which has boosted my confidence and motivation. It has opened up additional opportunities for learning and experience, bringing me closer to achieving my career goals.”
Mary’s commitment to her future extends beyond academics; she is actively engaged in extracurricular activities and community service. Currently serving as the Vice President of the Student Nursing Association at Rockhurst University, she leads initiatives that support her fellow nursing students. Her extensive volunteer work at local soup kitchens, nursing homes, and hospitals has deepened her dedication to patient care and community service.
“My involvement in these activities has enriched my nursing journey,” Mary reflects. “They have enhanced my leadership skills, broadened my perspective on patient care, and strengthened my dedication to making a positive impact in the community.”
Looking to the future, Mary envisions bringing her experience and compassion to pediatric oncology or the NICU, where she can truly make a difference. She also hopes to engage in community outreach and education, raising awareness about health issues and improving access to care. “My goal is to make a positive difference both in the healthcare field and within the community,” she states passionately.
A particularly impactful moment during her academic journey occurred when Mary applied to nursing school. Reaching out to various teachers and lab instructors for letters of recommendation, she did not expect much in return. To her surprise, she received a number of thoughtfully written letters. “It was a powerful reminder that the tough road to becoming a nurse is supported by so many people,” she says, her voice filled with appreciation. “Their kind words motivated me to keep working hard to achieve my dreams.”
As Mary Maher continues her nursing education, she remains steadfast in her commitment to caring for others. With each step she takes, she embodies the values of compassion and dedication that define her journey. Supported by the Linda A. Hoover Nursing Scholarship and her unwavering passion for nursing, Mary is poised to make a lasting impact on the lives of her patients and the community she serves.
Scholarships support promising and deserving students by assisting them with the costs of their education. Linda A. Hoover established a nursing scholarship fund because she had benefited from a nursing scholarship in her lifetime. Kathryn Miller established the Joyce K. Miller Scholarship Fund in honor of her mom’s lifelong commitment to the nursing profession. Both donors want to ensure that those same opportunities are available for our future generations.