Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics has been awarded a $131,000 Iowa Healthcare Credentialing grant to assist in launching a new initiative to guide students into a career in the healthcare field. The Fast Track Pathway to Healthcare program is in collaboration with South Central Calhoun (SSC) Community School District, Iowa Central Community College (ICCC), and Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) to offer hands-on activities, such as career fairs and exploration days to SCC students, academic planning to enroll in college courses and school-to-career placements during senior year of high school. The program will then award scholarships and employment opportunities to college students as they complete half of the required clinical hours through DMACC and ICCC course standards, with the expectation of maintaining commitments, completing required licensure exams, and committing to working full-time for Stewart Memorial for four years post-graduation. Stewart Memorial CEO Linn Block says, “This grant allows us to invest in the future of our community, supporting students as they grow into healthcare professionals and helping ensure high-quality care for years to come. This collaboration is more than education or employment, it’s about building sustainable careers and strengthening the healthcare system right here in our own backyard.” Students interested in learning more about the Fast Track Pathway program at Stewart Memorial, contact Rachel Judisch at 712-464-4274 or email at rjudish@stewartmemorial.org.
