MSU nursing program receives $70,000 gift to support Native students
The endowed gift will provide long-term support for Native nursing students through the Caring for Our Own Program
Montana State University's Caring for Our Own Program, which supports American Indian and Alaska Native nursing students, received a $70,000 endowed gift to establish the Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail Endowed Fund, according to Montana State University. The donation from retired nursing professor Kathleen "Kay" Chafey will provide long-term funding for student resources, including tutoring, field-based learning and classroom supplies. The program currently serves 63 students, with enrollment expected to grow to about 75 this fall.
The endowment honors Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail, who became the first registered nurse from the Crow Reservation in 1927. More than 100 graduates of the Caring for Our Own Program are licensed nurses working in Montana, and the program is expected to reach 200 graduates by December. University officials said the endowed fund will help sustain the program as it approaches its 30th anniversary.
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