Scholarship Testimonial

Making the decision to go back to school is life changing. Among the many things to consider are family, work, and money to fund the education. These are the issues I wrestled with when I decided to go back to school to complete my Master's degree in management. This was to be the terminal degree, but as it turned out, I am a lifelong learner and made the decision to return to school once again.

But, where would the money come from, as I already had an outstanding student loan? As an active member of AORN, I decided to apply for a scholarship through the AORN Foundation, and I received the very important support I needed. It was the turning point for me, and I was grateful. Receiving the scholarship eased my mind and allowed me to complete my doctorate degree in education.

Now, after almost 10 years, my dream of teaching student nurses has come true. As an educator, Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI) champion, adjunct faculty, and president of my AORN chapter, I encourage my colleagues to not only join AORN and become active members, but also to support the AORN Foundation for its wonderful work. In addition to my individual giving, I am also proud to say, my chapter #1411 has been supporting the Foundation since 1993.

In these difficult times, the AORN Foundation's Scholarship Program is helpful to many who need support to be able to complete their education. Although money is tight, and I am supporting my husband, who is going to school, I donate when I can. I am doubly grateful to the AORN Foundation for its support and want to pay it forward. Thank you for all of your help.

Sincerely,

Sophia M. Schild, EdD, MSN, RN, CNOR

Nurse Educator

Donor Testimonial



I recall, several years ago Trish Seifert addressing the AORN House of Delegates regarding the need for nurses in the operating room. Trish spoke to reassure the House, "Nurses have nothing to fear; there will always be a need for nurses in the OR" I cannot agree more. For the work we do in preparing patients for their surgical experience, protecting them from harm, and expediting a highly technical procedure, there is no better professional than a perioperative registered nurse.

Yet, we all know that it takes specialized training and time for a nurse to become competent in the perioperative setting. Time, as the adage goes, is money. Employers of today have less of both, which curtails their ability to provide OR staff members with adequate training. That is why I contribute to the AORN Foundation. Scholarships from the Foundation have enabled many nurses to join us behind the double-doors. Education Grants allow nurses to receive necessary continuing education and resources that address complex patient needs and new advances in technology. It gives me a great feeling, knowing that my donations provide nurses and institutions with the means to keep the nurse in the OR.

And, it's so easy to do, even in this difficult economy. Once a month, a small amount is automatically withdrawn from my account and is donated to the AORN Foundation. Little by little it adds up so that by tax time, my accountant can write off a sizable chunk of what I owe Uncle Sam. But, more important to me is the investment I am making in the future. Someday, I will need an OR nurse and I want to make sure that he or she will be there. With help from the Foundation, that's a certainty.

Alice Erskine, RN, MSN, CNOR

Perioperative Nurse Educator