Bronson School of Nursing Launches Meader Scholars Program to Support Student Success
Every nursing student deserves the opportunity to succeed, especially when challenges arise. To help students navigate the demands of nursing education, the Bronson School of Nursing at Western Michigan University is launching the Meader Scholars Program, a new initiative focused on early intervention, peer mentorship and student success. Developed by Dr. Lisa Singleterry and Dr. Elissa Allen, the program provides targeted support to students who may be struggling academically, helping them build confidence, strengthen resilience and stay on track toward graduation and professional practice. This scholarship provides $500 per semester to students participating in tutoring and $1,000 per semester to the tutors who work with them.
"The Meader Scholars Program is built on the belief that students are most successful when support is provided early, before challenges become barriers that may cause issues with their progression,” said Dr. Elissa Allen, Student Success Chair and co-creator of the program. “Our goal is to focus on meaningful connections that help students build confidence, access resources and recognize that they are not navigating nursing school alone."
The Meader Scholars Program was created in response to a growing need for proactive student support. Rather than waiting until students encounter significant academic difficulties that might impact their progression, the program is designed to identify academic concerns early and connect students with meaningful support before challenges become barriers to success.
At the heart of the program is a structured peer mentoring model. Selected students are paired with trained peer mentors who provide encouragement, accountability and practical strategies for navigating the stressors of nursing school. Through regular meetings and ongoing communication, mentors help students develop effective study habits, strengthen time management skills, access campus resources and build confidence in their ability to succeed.
The program also recognizes that academic success is closely connected to personal well-being. In addition to mentoring, Meader Scholars will have opportunities to participate in wellness and self-care activities that promote resilience, stress management and a sense of belonging within the Bronson School of Nursing community. By supporting students both academically and personally, the program takes a holistic approach to student success.
The Meader Scholars Program reflects the Bronson School of Nursing's commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment where every student can thrive. Through mentorship, connection and early intervention, the program aims to strengthen retention, promote student well-being and prepare future nurses to enter the profession with confidence and success.