Registered Nurses (RNs) from Clay, Lincoln, Fayette, and Kanawha counties are invited to take the next step in bringing compassionate, community-based care to their local congregations and neighborhoods. Thanks to generous scholarship funding provided by The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, the WVU School of Nursing's Foundations of Faith Community Nursing course is now available at no cost to selected RNs who live or work in these West Virginia counties.
“The Foundations of Faith Community Nursing course prepares nurses to serve in one of nursing’s most holistic and impactful roles: the Faith Community Nurse,” said Dr. Angel Smothers, Associate Dean for Community Engagement at the WVU School of Nursing. “These nurses are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between faith and health by providing health education, spiritual support, health advocacy, and preventive care in faith-based and community settings.”
West Virginia communities face ongoing challenges related to access to care, chronic disease management, and social determinants of health. Faith Community Nurses play a vital role in addressing these needs by walking alongside individuals and families in trusted environments. Their presence helps reduce health disparities, encourage wellness, and foster meaningful relationships that promote healing of body, mind, and spirit.
Scholarship recipients will receive full tuition coverage to participate in the Foundations of Faith Community Nursing course, which is recognized nationally and provides comprehensive training in the FCN model. The course includes core curriculum modules aligned with the Westberg Institute for Faith Community Nursing standards, and covers topics such as:
- The history and philosophy of faith community nursing
- Ethical and legal considerations
- Health promotion and advocacy
- Spiritual care and cultural humility
- Starting and sustaining a faith community nursing ministry
This opportunity is especially well-suited for nurses who are active in a faith community, interested in public health or community outreach, or seeking to incorporate holistic approaches into their practice.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Active RN license in West Virginia
- Reside or work in Clay, Lincoln, Fayette, or Kanawha County
- Willingness to participate in follow-up activities or evaluation after course completion
Interested nurses should reach out to Dr. Angel Smothers at asmothers@hsc.wvu.edu. Spaces are limited, so interested RNs should apply soon.
Donations supporting the work of Faith Community Nurses are awarded via the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.
If you are interested in making a donation to this or any other program at the WVU School of Nursing, please contact Dr. Kimberly Colebank, Development Director, at kcolebank@wvuf.org or 304-554-0237.