Asheville Reporter

Haywood Regional Medical Center (HRMC) and Haywood Community College (HCC) have launched a new Scholars Program aimed at supporting health sciences students. The initiative provides a final dollars scholarship to students in exchange for a commitment to work at HRMC after graduation. This program targets those enrolled in Registered Nurse, Nurse Aide I, Medical Assistant, Phlebotomy, and Paramedic programs at HCC.

The partnership offers financial aid to help students complete their education locally and pursue careers that benefit the health of Haywood County residents. Chris Brown, RN, CEO of HRMC, emphasized the importance of affordable education: “This program is an opportunity to invest in the future of our local healthcare workforce and ensure that our patients receive the best care possible from individuals who are rooted in this community.”

The program was officially launched with a signing event on January 9, 2025, at HCC’s Phyllis Prevost Health Sciences Education Building. Shelley White, Ed.D., President of HCC, highlighted the collaboration's impact: “By providing local students with the opportunity to complete their education and secure employment within our community, we are not only addressing immediate workforce needs but also ensuring a sustainable future for our region’s healthcare sector.”

Haywood Regional Medical Center is part of Duke LifePoint Hospital and focuses on delivering excellent healthcare while serving the local community. Haywood Community College offers over 30 programs with an emphasis on flexibility and online courses. Together, these institutions aim to enhance opportunities for local students and support community growth.

Applications for HCC’s fall semester nursing program are open until January 31st. Prospective students interested in the Scholars Program can contact HRMC People Services Consultant Kelly Maney at kelly.maney@lifepointhealth.net for more information.