Kara Wantling receives Sanford Health Nursing Scholarship
Kara Wantling, a junior in the University of Arizona College of Nursing Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, received a highly competitive 2024 Sanford Health Nursing Scholarship.
“Receiving the Sanford Health Nursing Scholarship is an honor,” said Wantling. “I am beyond grateful for the generosity and support as I persevere through this exciting chapter of my life. I have had a passion to become a nurse for a while, and this scholarship serves as a reminder to continue striving for excellence within my education and future.”
“We are extremely proud of Kara for receiving this highly sought-after and very selective scholarship,” said Brian Ahn, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing. “Her hard work and scholarship during her time at the U of A is a testament to her future in nursing. The recognition by Sanford Health of her dedication to the field of nursing speaks volumes. I would also like to thank and acknowledge the faculty and staff who supported Kara on her journey.”
Bryan Wheeler, a lead sourcing specialist at Sanford Health, said, “This year we saw a huge increase in the number of applications. We received 4,200 applications from students in 49 states and 300 universities. With the increase in applicants, we decided to raise the number of scholarships to 56.”
Wantling, who wants to work in a pediatric oncology unit, grew up in St. Louis, Missouri. She said that after touring the campus, she knew the College of Nursing was where she wanted to be.
“I can easily say that each and every professor at the College of Nursing has a unique background and a love for this profession, which creates a motivating environment for students like me to accomplish our dreams,” said Wantling. “The College of Nursing has presented me with an abundance of opportunities that have not only aided in my professional and academic development, but also as I continue to grow into the best version of myself.”
The scholarship review committee wrote: “Kara shared remarkable strength in coping with her father’s death and chose to pursue a career in nursing, inspired by the compassionate care provided by nurses and health-care providers to her and her family during that difficult time. Kara expressed her determination to work and use her savings to independently finance her college education without relying on family support.”
Wantling, who expects to graduate in December 2025, is a student nurse intern at St. Mary’s Hospital in Tucson.
“I am in love with my role,” she said, “and I could not have done it without the support and encouragement from my professors.