AANA Foundation DEI Scholarship

Name: AANA Foundation DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Scholarship

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

Information And Eligibility:
The AANA Foundation DEI Scholarship is designed to support nurse anesthesia residents who are actively advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the nurse anesthesia profession. Administered by the AANA Foundation, this scholarship recognizes residents whose academic work, organizational involvement, advocacy, or community engagement contributes to a more inclusive, equitable, and representative profession.

Unlike some diversity-focused awards that are tied to a specific demographic group, this scholarship emphasizes impact and engagement. Applicants are evaluated based on their demonstrated commitment to DEI initiatives and their potential to influence positive change in nurse anesthesiology through leadership, education, policy, research, or clinical practice.

The scholarship supports residents who understand that diversity and inclusion are essential to improving patient outcomes, strengthening professional collaboration, and expanding access to care. Recipients are viewed as emerging leaders who will continue to advance DEI principles throughout their careers.

• Merit-based scholarship administered by the AANA Foundation
• Focused on advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in nurse anesthesiology
• Emphasizes leadership, advocacy, and long-term professional impact
• Supports residents committed to creating systemic change within the profession

Applicants must be second-year nurse anesthesia residents currently enrolled in an accredited nurse anesthesia program. A central component of the application is a structured essay that outlines the applicant’s DEI involvement, future goals, and the professional benefit of receiving the scholarship.

The selection committee places strong weight on clarity of vision, authenticity, and the applicant’s ability to articulate how their experiences and goals align with advancing equity and inclusion in nurse anesthesia. Preference is often given to applicants who have not previously received an AANA Foundation scholarship, helping broaden access to financial support.

• Nationally competitive scholarship
• Essay-driven review process
• Focuses on both demonstrated impact and future leadership potential

Eligibility Requirements:

• 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):

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

Deadline: Varies by application cycle

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