ASPIRE program is adding diversity to nursing
Dozens of Philadelphia high school students are getting an up-close look at nursing—and a jump-start into a nursing career—through the ASPIRE Program.
Students from Philadelphia are now seizing a new chance to learn about and start careers in nursing. In January 2023, the Howley Foundation, La Salle University, and Penn Medicine launched the ASPIRE Program to offer these students financial and educational support as well as an enthusiastic welcome to the profession.
According to high school junior SirNira, the ASPIRE program is proving to be inspiring:
“My first year in the ASPIRE Program was awesome. I loved how I got to learn so much and feel at home. I never was upset about not hanging out with friends or doing anything else on Saturdays because I was able to be with my ASPIRE family, who wanted to help me reach my goal of becoming a nurse. I loved the shadow opportunities, being on Penn’s campus, meeting like-minded people, and generally learning about how broad the field of nursing is and that there is truly something for everyone. I constantly talk about being an ASPIRE Scholar and how fortunate I am to wear our shirts and my badge.”
The program is funded by the $7.5 million commitment of the Howley Foundation. Since 2001, this organization has sponsored scholarship and education programs leading to work for students from low socioeconomic backgrounds in Cleveland and Philadelphia.
At the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), the program is led by ASPIRE Program Manager Gabrielle Mariotti, MSW, LSW and Nursing Professional Development Specialist Diana Rodenbaugh, MSN, RN, CMSRN, WCC. With the strong endorsements of leadership from both the University of Pennsylvania Health System and La Salle, the program has made a quick start. Twenty-five high school students have been selected in a highly competitive process and are exploring the nursing profession as ASPIRE scholars.
Enrichment sessions led by nurses
In their junior and senior years, high school students in the program participate in enrichment sessions led by HUP nurses. ASPIRE scholars are introduced to topics such as the history of nursing and various nursing specialties. They also gain CPR certification, observe bedside care in clinical units, practice a range of nursing skills. Most of all, they become part of a community that is dedicated to and excited for their success.
Committed to inclusion, diversity, and equity
Penn Medicine proudly cares for people of all ethnicities, historical traditions, economic backgrounds, genders, religions, disabilities, and sexual orientations—and we are dedicated to supporting a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve.
After completing each year of enrichment sessions, students receive a $500 stipend. Seniors who qualify are given the option to attend La Salle University to earn a BS in nursing. They are offered part-time employment at HUP to supplement their academic experience with peer support, mentorship, and hands-on career experience. The Philadelphia program is modeled on the successful ASPIRE program that the Howley Foundation sponsors at the Cleveland Clinic.
Learn more about how you can contribute to the ASPIRE program on the program website.