Penn Medicine Launches Program for High School Students Interested in Nursing

According to a Jan. 3 press release, Penn Medicine announced a partnership with the Howley Foundation and La Salle University to launch a new program that will invest in the future of nursing at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP). The program will support high school students in Philadelphia and is supported by a commitment from the Howley Foundation of up to $7.5 million.

The press release states that “Each year, up to 25 outstanding high-school juniors will be selected to be ASPIRE scholars and participate in an enrichment program, lasting for the reminder of their high-school careers. The enrichment program offers mentorship and exposure to health care, the role of nurses, patient safety, and more through a series of interactive and hands-on sessions at the hospital. The first cohort of high-school students will begin with juniors in early 2023.”

Further, “Upon graduation and fulfillment of requirements, students then have the opportunity to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at La Salle University with financial support from federal grants, a school scholarship, and a scholarship from the ASPIRE Program itself—which is funded by the Howley Foundation and Penn. During that time, they will have the opportunity to apply for paid positions at HUP where they can practice their skills and gain more relevant experience.”

The program begins with lecture-type lessons and hands-on learning in the hospital for high school students with instructors from HUP, including nurses and hospital staff. Students won’t participate in clinical work with hospital patients but will observe and assist nurses and other clinicians. During participants’ college years, ASPIRE scholars will receive ongoing support and guidance through advisors.

Colleen Mattioni, D.N.P., the chief nurse executive at HUP, was quoted in the release saying that “ASPIRE firmly aligns with Penn Medicine’s and HUP’s goals to offer pipeline opportunities for members of our community to continue cultivating an inclusive workforce and providing outstanding patient care. The ASPIRE Program will welcome a diverse pool of young people into an environment of research, innovation, and evidenced based practice, and high-quality clinical care. Of course, we will benefit from participants’ enthusiasm, curiosity, and passion.”

The ASPIRE Program at HUP builds upon the model created by the Howley Foundation for the Cleveland Clinic in 2017.