Nov 12, 2024
The scholarship celebrates creativity and perseverance, providing up to $10,000 in financial aid to qualifying students
SALT LAKE CITY — Nov 12, 2024 — Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences is proud to announce that Pius Kato, currently enrolled in Joyce’s BSN program, has been selected as the first recipient of the Joshua Ray Memorial Scholarship. This prestigious award honors the memory of Joshua Ray, a distinguished Joyce University alum and former Director of Academic Innovation whose legacy continues to inspire the Joyce community.
The Joshua Ray Memorial Scholarship, valued at up to $10,000, supports pre-licensure nursing students enrolled in Joyce University’s ASN, BSN, or aBSN programs. It is awarded each semester to a deserving student who demonstrates a commitment to innovation, resilience in the face of adversity, and commitment to the nursing profession. Kato was chosen for his exceptional academic achievements and his inspiring journey of perseverance.
“Receiving this scholarship is profoundly meaningful to me as it validates my journey through significant challenges,” Kato shared. “It will allow me to fully immerse myself in my nursing education, alleviating financial burdens and empowering me to contribute meaningfully to the field. I am honored to continue Joshua Ray’s legacy and hope to inspire others to find strength in adversity.”
Kato’s path to nursing was marked by determination and adaptability. When financial support from his guardian was withdrawn during his early education, he took charge of his learning through homeschooling. He borrowed textbooks, sought guidance from local teachers and dedicated long hours to self-study. His efforts paid off as he emerged as the top candidate in his school. This experience shaped his commitment to nursing, a field where resilience and tenacity are essential for providing quality, compassionate care.
“My passion for nursing stems from a desire to help others and make a meaningful impact in my community,” said Kato. “Joyce University’s focus on hands-on learning, real-world clinical experiences, and a supportive environment aligns perfectly with my goals. I am excited to develop my skills and contribute to healthcare with compassion and problem-solving.”
The Joshua Ray Memorial Scholarship is part of Joyce University’s broader mission to support lifelong learning. The university offers various scholarships to help students overcome financial barriers and pursue their educational goals. By investing in students like Kato, Joyce University continues to foster a new generation of compassionate, skilled nurses ready to make a difference in their communities.
“Pius embodies the spirit of the Joshua Ray Memorial Scholarship,” said Lisa Bammert, chair of the scholarship committee at Joyce University. “We are thrilled to support his journey and watch him make a positive impact within the community.”
For more information about Joyce University’s scholarship opportunities and nursing programs, please visit Scholarships & Grants.
ABOUT JOYCE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1979, Joyce University of Nursing and Health Sciences’ mission is to prepare students to serve as competent professionals, to advance their careers, and to pursue lifelong learning. Located in Draper, Utah, Joyce University is proud to have helped thousands of students across the US graduate and launch lasting healthcare careers. With a recent expansion of its pre-licensure programs to select regional locations, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Missouri, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wisconsin, Joyce University’s expansion enables aspiring nurses in these regions to access the same high-quality education and opportunities that have defined the institution for decades. Join them as they continue to shape the future of healthcare, one student at a time.
Joyce University is institutionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and programmatically accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) for the Associate of Science in Nursing degree program and by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Master of Science in Nursing degree programs.