Pre-Entry & Retention Opportunities for Undergraduate Diversity (PROUD)
About the Program
Founded to increase diversity in nursing
Mennonite College of Nursing sees a need for diversity in the profession of nursing, and addressing that need starts with encouraging members of diverse populations to pursue their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and then supporting those students throughout their journey at the university. To work toward this goal, in 2017, MCN formed PROUD.
Begun as part of a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Resources – Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), PROUD is an organization that seeks to promote diversity in the nursing profession by recruiting and graduating students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Support for BSN students at Illinois State University
To help students be successful in pursuing their nursing degree, the PROUD program provides extra support, including:
- Financial support – Scholarships and stipends for students who qualify under the HRSA federal guidelines
- Academic support – Study groups and tutoring sessions
- Peer support – Regular opportunities for social activities, creating a support system with other students and faculty
- Mentorship – PROUD students have mentors in place to further enhance their support system
- Professional development – Presentations on leadership and other topics are provided throughout the semester
Community outreach
PROUD also engages with the community by:
- Hosting tours of Illinois State University’s Nursing Simulation Lab
- Encouraging current nursing students to be actively involved in local health fairs, blood drives, and immunization clinics
- Increasing awareness of issues of diversity and inclusion in the nursing profession
Get Involved
All current or admitted MCN students are eligible to apply to join the PROUD program. For questions about this program, call 309.438.1820.
Proud Team
Mary Dyck– PROUD Grant Project Director
Barb Stamets – PROUD Program Coordinator
A University-Wide Commitment
Illinois State University offers a supportive and diverse environment for its students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Read our Newsletter
The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Taskforce formed under PROUD puts out a newsletter! Read the latest issue below: