First-generation college student pursues career in nursing with aspirations for caring for underserved patient populations
Chesapeake, VA (Oct. 15, 2024) – Maxim Healthcare Services (Maxim), a national provider of continuous skilled nursing services and personal and behavioral care, announced today that Keila Romero Mendoza, an LPN from Chesapeake, was awarded a $10,000 scholarship to support her educational pursuits in nursing. The Future of Healthcare Scholarship, offered annually by the Maxim Charitable Foundation’s Social Justice Committee, awards high school graduates, current college students and non-traditional students pursuing an education in a clinical field or the healthcare industry.
“Continuing to provide comprehensive, compassionate healthcare is dependent on our future workforce,” said Maxim’s Chief Executive Officer, Jarrod DePriest. “At Maxim, we believe we have a role in supporting our aspiring caregivers, one opportunity to do so is through our Future of Healthcare Scholarship program. We are thrilled to present Keila with this much-deserved recognition and support, and deeply admire her passion for serving others.”
23-year-old Mendoza is a first-generation college student who came to the United States from El Salvador to pursue educational opportunities. During her last year of high school, Mendoza enlisted in the Army Reserves, which provided her with the opportunity to obtain an LPN license at the age of 19. Currently, Mendoza is enrolled at ECPI University in Virginia Beach, where she is pursuing an RN and eventually a master’s degree. She balances her night shift nursing duties by taking daytime classes, while also volunteering in her spare time with the American Red Cross, as well as participating with her Army Reserve unit to provide cross medical training and contributing to soldier readiness in the field.
“I am beyond grateful for this scholarship, as it will help alleviate the financial stress of paying for tuition all on my own,” said Mendoza. “Not only that, but it will also allow me to focus more on my studies and help ensure I stay on track to graduate on time and with my cohort.”
Mendoza’s passion for healthcare is evident by the way she talks about her greatest inspiration – her aunt who raised her as a young child in El Salvador. “My aunt was like a mother to me,” says Mendoza. “She had the most caring and loving personality. When she passed away a few years ago, I knew I wanted to pursue a career of service and care for others like she cared for me.”
One of Mendoza’s greatest aspirations is to work with humanitarian groups in underserved areas, including the developing nation of her birth. “Through my journey in nursing, I hope to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others by bringing healing and hope to those who need it the most. Whether it’s providing direct patient care or advocating for better healthcare resources globally, I am committed to making a difference and serving communities in need.”
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About Maxim Healthcare Services
For more than 30 years, we’ve been making a difference in patients’ lives by providing excellent service and compassionate care. We offer skilled nursing, personal care, respite care, behavioral care and physical rehabilitation for individuals with chronic and acute illnesses and disabilities. Visit maximhealthcare.com for more information.
