Kish College Foundation Secures $5,000 Grant for Nursing Initiative

The Kishwaukee College Foundation has been awarded a $5,000 grant from the 3M Site Hometown Donation program. This funding will bolster the Foundation’s Nursing Textbook Initiative, aimed at assisting students enrolled in Kish’s Nursing program, who often face higher costs for textbooks and class materials compared to peers in other programs.

Supporting Nursing Students

In spring 2025, Kishwaukee College will implement its “All-In” tuition model, which encompasses all fees and textbook costs within the tuition price. To maintain this model without imposing additional financial burdens on Nursing students, the Foundation has committed to covering the increased costs for the fiscal year 2026. The Nursing Textbook Initiative was subsequently developed to ensure ongoing financial support for students.

Courtney Walz, the director of development at the Foundation, emphasized the organization’s dedication to student success. “The foundation is committed to ensuring our students have the resources they need to complete their educational and professional goals,” she stated. “We are thankful for 3M’s generosity to help kick off this initiative.”

Impact on Healthcare Education

Kishwaukee College’s Nursing program is integral to the training of qualified healthcare professionals in the region. Statistics reveal that graduates from this program consistently surpass the National Council Licensure Exam-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, with an impressive 95% of graduates securing employment as registered nurses within six months of completing their studies.

The 3M Site Hometown Donation program has a history of supporting nonprofit organizations, contributing over $70.1 million to various initiatives. This partnership with Kishwaukee College underscores both the company’s commitment to community development and the importance of accessible education in nursing.

Through initiatives like the Nursing Textbook Initiative, Kishwaukee College continues to enhance its educational offerings, ensuring that students have the necessary tools to thrive in their careers and contribute positively to the healthcare workforce.