Two students from the University of South Carolina Aiken recently received a grant from the P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education (PCE). Glinda Napier and Lynn Brant, both senior nursing majors, each received a $2,000 grant—the maximum amount awarded—to assist with educational expenses.

Founded in 1869, P.E.O. (Philanthropic Educational Organization) is one of the pioneer societies for women. According to their Web site, P.E.O. is a philanthropic organization "where women celebrate the advancement of women and educate women through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship." The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education, established in 1973, is a national grant program "providing financial assistance to women whose education has been interrupted and who find it necessary to resume studies due to changing demands in their lives."

Both Napier and Brant were sponsored by Aiken's Chapter B of the P.E.O. Sisterhood. Members of Chapter B submitted the award applications to P.E.O. International, which then awarded the grants.

According to Dr. Liz Benton, PCE chair of Chapter B,"Our P.E.O. chapter is extremely pleased to assist in obtaining funding for women who have returned to school to complete their education. We are delighted that two nursing students at USCA have received continuing education grants this year."

While Chapter B annually awards a scholarship to a female student at USC Aiken through the P.E.O. Sisterhood Scholarship Fund, these latest awards mark the first time a USCA student has received the maximum $2,000 grant.

"As Dean of the School of Nursing, I am very proud that not just one of our students but two of our students were recipients of the PCE grants," said Dr. Julia Ball. "I am also indebted to Dr. Benton and the P.E.O. Sisterhood for proposing our students and working so closely with them.

Ms. Brant and Ms. Napier are very worthy recipients, and I sincerely believe that both will become excellent registered nurses upon graduation. The PCE grants have made a great impact in the lives of these two student nurses."

For more information, contact Ball at 803.641.3263 or JuliaB@usca.edu.

Source: usca.edu