Joyce Rodgers worked for the Henry County Health Department for many years before retiring and then serving on the Piedmont Henry Hospital Board of Directors. She has been a longtime supporter of the hospital in addition to her duties on the board. After serving three four-year terms, Rodgers was honored by the board with establishing the scholarship fund in her name. On Tuesday, June 6, Rodgers and hospital leaders honored five students pursuing careers in healthcare with $2,500 scholarships.
“We had so many good applicants this year,” said Rodgers at the ceremony. “I know our scholarship winners will make a positive difference for others in their careers.”
The scholarship recipients are:
•Julia Carrington, a unit secretary in Piedmont Henry’s NICU. She will graduate with her Bachelors degree in Nursing from Herzing University this fall.
•Anuoluwapo Olusanya, a Woodland High School graduate, headed to Georgia State University’s nursing program this fall.
•Ivy Nicole Gilleran, a Clayton State University nursing student scheduled to graduate in the fall of 2024.
•Leila Braggs, a student at Hampton University, studying to become a speech pathologist.
•Kristen Ashley Long, a graduate of Ola High School, headed to Middle Georgia State University to study nursing.
“It is our sincere hope if they are not already employed here, that these students seek jobs at Piedmont Henry when they are done with their schooling,” said Paula Butts, Chief Nursing Officer at Piedmont Henry. “Their dedication to healthcare and providing care to others in the community will make them ideal employees.”
Scholarship selections were based on scholastic record, character, leadership qualities, participation in student and community activities, and interest and knowledge of chosen health career. Applications for the scholarship will open again next spring. To donate to the Joyce Rodgers scholarship fund, visit give.piedmont.org/Henry and select Joyce Rodgers scholarship fund from the menu. You can also call or email Andrea Mendez with Piedmont Healthcare Foundation at 404-947-0318 or Andrea.mendez@piedmont.org.
