Saint Francis University Celebrates First Ward Scholarship Recipients

Celebrating a Milestone in Nursing Education

Meet the Inaugural Ward Scholarship Recipients

Saint Francis University is proud to celebrate a milestone moment for its nursing program—the very first recipients of the prestigious Ward Scholarship have been announced. Congratulations to Ms. Miranda Butterbaugh, Ms. Cassie Runk, Ms. Emma John, and Ms. Ekaterina Priel for earning this life-changing award.

The Ward Scholarship, made possible through the generosity of Mr. Michael E. Ward and Ms. Andrea M. Ward, was created in partnership with UPMC Altoona to support and inspire the next generation of nurses. Eligible junior and senior nursing students who meet program requirements can receive up to $30,000 in scholarship funding, along with a sign-on bonus and tuition repayment, in exchange for a post-graduation commitment to serve at UPMC Altoona.

A Proud Moment for the Red Flash Nursing Community

University leaders and UPMC representatives—including Mr. Michael Corso, President of UPMC Altoona and UPMC Bedford; Mr. Tim Balconi, President of the UPMC Foundation; Dr. Frank Montecalvo, Vice President for Innovative Partnerships and Student Development; and Dr. Kerri Golden, Dean of the School of Health Sciences and Education—joined together to honor the students’ achievements and recognize the donors’ remarkable impact.

“These future nurses are already showing the dedication, compassion, and skill that will make them exceptional in their field,” said Dr. Golden. “This scholarship not only supports their education, but also strengthens the future of healthcare in our community.”

With their commitment to serve, Miranda, Cassie, Emma, and Ekaterina are taking the next steps toward careers of purpose, compassion, and service. Their journeys will not only shape their own futures but also touch countless lives in the years to come.