Golden Valley Health Centers Foundation recently presented a total of $25,000 in scholarships to five deserving college students pursuing degrees in nursing and health care.

The scholarship program, named after one of Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC) founding board members, Flora R. Martinez, pays tribute to the essential care provided by nurses. Flora R. Martinez was a GVHC Board Member for 43 years. She believed in GVHC’s mission and had a heart for nurses because she understood their love and dedication to the profession. Upon her passing in 2014, her son promised to continue her legacy, and thus the Flora R. Martinez Nursing Scholarship was established.

The 2023 scholarship recipients come from areas within GVHC’s service region. This year’s recipients include: Steven Hannah who is working toward a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from Grand Canyon University, Guadalupe Palomo, who is working on receiving an Associate Degree in Nursing at Modesto Junior College, Alexa Duarte, pursuing an Associate Degree in Nursing from CSU Stanislaus, Jennifer Seymore, who is currently a first semester nursing student at Modesto Junior College, with goals to earn a Bachelor’s in Nursing and Ana Veloz, who is a current CSU Stanislaus student, working towards Bachelors of Science in Nursing and Psychology.

“Healthcare is a great career with life-long learning and life-long employment opportunities,” according to Tony Weber, President and CEO, Golden Valley Health Centers. “This scholarship program demonstrates our commitment to cultivating a strong workforce from the talent in our own communities. We know the need for skilled nurses is going to continue and hope that these students might consider GVHC when looking for a place to work.”

Scholarship recipients are selected each year by a volunteer committee. Decisions are based on the applicants’ academic performance, financial need and details of the application letters submitted. The committee is comprised of Golden Valley Health Centers Board of Directors and Foundation Board. More than 50 applications were received this year.

For more information on the Flora R. Martinez Nursing Scholarship or the GVHC Foundation, visit: www/gvhc.org.