Shepherd University, Meritus Health Offer new Nursing Scholarships!

Under the alliance, officials met at Shepherd University to formally celebrate the partnership that offers a limited number of scholarships to nursing students every year.

Study in US: Shepherd University has joined forces with Meritus Health Medical Center, Inc. to aid Nursing students in becoming Registered Nurses. The partnership also offers a limited number of scholarships to these students and will help them work locally as registered nurses. The alliance will be beneficial for both the hospital and nursing students.

Students from Maryland, Washington County, West Virginia and Jefferson County can apply for the scholarship.

“The initiative is aimed at alleviating financial and to help the next generation of nursing professionals. We provide financial support to nursing students in the final year of their education and over the first years of their employment with Meritus," said Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at Meritus Medical Center Melissa McHugh Short, MBA, MN, RN.

The university expects this alliance to address the critical shortage of practising nurses throughout the region.

“It is very important to make the educational opportunities here at Shepherd available to students, especially in vital areas of need. We are always working to identify partnerships that support our students and benefit the community and local workforce," said Shepherd University President Dr. Mary J.C. Hendrix.

Innovative opioid study of Shepherd University accepted for publication

Shepherd University researchers conducted a pilot study which is selected for publication in the esteemed journal Photobiomodulation, Photomedicine, and Laser Surgery.

Drs. Jennifer Flora and Kelly Watson Huffer co-authored the project named - “Transcranial Photobiomodulation Therapy as an Intervention for Opioid Cravings and Depression: A Pilot Cohort Study,”. The research explores the possibilities of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy for opioid use disorder.

While commenting on this prestigious development, Drs. Jennifer Flora said, “This study examines the impact of PBM on reducing opioid cravings and depressive symptoms among individuals undergoing treatment for opioid addiction at a rehabilitation center in West Virginia."

President Hendrix said, “We are delighted that this important study will receive the attention it deserves. Opioid Use Disorder is a critical concern nationwide, but especially here in West Virginia. I am very proud that researchers at Shepherd University are leading the way with new treatment strategies to help individuals recover.”

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