MISSION STATEMENT: Mobilizing women to act boldly on their faith in Jesus Christ.
OUR PURPOSE: As a community of women created in the image of God, called to discipleship in Jesus Christ,
and empowered by the Holy Spirit, we commit ourselves to grow in faith, affirm our gifts,
support one another in our callings, engage in ministry and action,
and promote healing and wholeness in the church, the society, and the world.
OUTREACH
NEWBERRY COLLEGE NURSING SCHOLARSHIP ENDOWMENT FUND
SC WELCA has established an endowed scholarship for nursing students at Newberry College. On July 12, organization leaders officially presented the college with a check for $24,785, to serve as the endowment’s founding gift.
“After our recent pandemic, we have seen the toll and devastation that occurred within our nation and the world,” the group said in a statement. “This fund is just a small but mighty step in assisting in the development of nurses who will provide healing and wholeness to the church, society and the world.”
The project began a year ago with the organization’s convention project committee, led by convention chair Amanda Boatwright and then-chair Sarah Cheesman. The organization pledged to raise $10,000 to start the endowed award by this year’s convention, held June 24-25, 2022. When all was said and done, the group had more than doubled its initial goal.
“Word went out to congregational members, friends, and neighbors to share the dream. The response was overwhelming,” the group said.
The organization’s hope is that this scholarship will help alleviate the shortage of qualified nurses in South Carolina and across the country. The Palmetto State has the fourth largest shortage in the nation, with more than 10,000 nursing vacancies expected by 2030, according to the National Center for Health Workforce Analysis.
The first scholarship is expected to be awarded this fall.
From left to right: WELCA Vice President Amanda Boatwright, Treasurer Virginia Herlong, Newberry College President Maurice Scherrens, WELCA President Risse Snelgrove, Dr. Jerry Alewine, Dean of Nursing & Health Sciences, and Dr. Jenny Lindler, Director of Nursing at Newberry College.
Katie’s Fund is an endowment that supports ministry in three areas: leadership development, global connections and living theology. It was established in 1997 to honor the legacy of Katharina von Bora Luther, raise up bold leaders for the women’s organization and support bold and creative ministry for generations to come.
The SC WELCA Board ask that you consider donating to the worthwhile project.
ELCA GOOD GIFTS
As members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we believe that God is calling us into the world – together. And with generous, loving hands, we can make a difference.
ELCA Good Gifts is your opportunity to provide critical support to the ministries and programs that mean the most to you and the people you love.
1. Choose your gift
2. Get a card
3. See where your money goes