AANA Diversity Scholarship

Name: AANA Diversity Scholarship

Award Amount: $3,000
(Three scholarships awarded annually; total funding of $9,000)

Information And Eligibility:
The AANA Diversity Scholarship is designed to support and elevate nurse anesthesia residents from ethnic minority backgrounds who are actively contributing to diversity, equity, and inclusion within the profession. Funded through the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA) and administered by the AANA Foundation, this scholarship reflects a strong commitment to building a more inclusive and representative future for nurse anesthesiology.

The scholarship recognizes residents whose lived experiences, advocacy efforts, academic work, or community involvement help broaden perspectives, reduce disparities, and strengthen access and equity within healthcare and the nurse anesthesia workforce. Recipients are viewed as emerging leaders who will help shape a profession that better reflects and serves diverse patient populations.

• Merit-based diversity scholarship administered by the AANA Foundation
• Supports equity, inclusion, and representation in nurse anesthesiology
• Recognizes leadership potential and long-term professional impact
• Encourages continued engagement in DEI initiatives

This scholarship is awarded to second-year nurse anesthesia residents who belong to an ethnic minority group or groups. Ethnic minority status may be based on observational differences related to ethnicity, race, and/or religion. The application places significant emphasis on the applicant’s personal narrative, involvement in DEI-focused efforts, and future plans to positively influence the profession.

Applicants must submit a focused essay that clearly demonstrates how their background and experiences contribute to diversity within nurse anesthesia, how they have already made an impact, and how receiving the scholarship would further their ability to lead and serve. Preference is typically given to applicants who have not previously received an AANA Foundation scholarship, helping expand access to financial support.

• Competitive national scholarship
• Essay-driven evaluation process
• Recognizes both past contributions and future goals

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must belong to an ethnic minority group or groups.
• Must be a second-year nurse anesthesia resident.
• Must be currently enrolled and in good standing in an accredited nurse anesthesia program.
• Must be a member of the AANA.

Essay Requirements (500 words or less):

• Identify your ethnic minority group(s).
• Explain how current or recent involvement in diversity- and inclusion-oriented organizations, academic projects, or initiatives has impacted or could impact diversity within nurse anesthesia.
• Describe future career plans that will advance diversity and inclusion in the profession.
• Discuss how receiving this scholarship will benefit you professionally.

Deadline: Varies by application cycle

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