TUSCALOOSA, AL — Officials announced Monday that a $1.5 million investment aimed at addressing Alabama’s nursing shortage will expand scholarship opportunities and student support programs at the University of Alabama Capstone College of Nursing.
Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.
The Bedford Falls Foundation, through its donor-advised fund, has committed the funding over five years to support in-state undergraduate nursing students.
The gift is expected to fund approximately 60 scholarships annually while also bolstering initiatives designed to improve student success.
College leaders said the funding comes at a critical time as Alabama faces a looming workforce gap.
The Alabama Board of Nursing reports that roughly 39,000 nurses plan to retire by 2027, contributing to a projected statewide shortage of about 14,000 nurses.
The investment also aligns with the college’s long-term strategy to expand enrollment and double the number of practice-ready graduates by 2030.
“Bedford Falls Foundation’s extraordinary commitment marks a historic moment for both our college and the state of Alabama, as this is the first funding the foundation has provided within the state,” said Dr. Julie Sanford, dean of the Capstone College of Nursing. “Their investment strengthens our mission to prepare highly skilled nurses who will serve communities across Alabama and beyond.”
Officials said the funding is designed to reduce financial barriers for students pursuing nursing degrees, opening access to education that can lead to stable employment in a high-demand field.
“We are pleased to support students at the University of Alabama,” said Bill Conway Jr., who established the foundation with his late wife, Joanne Barrett Conway. “The nursing shortage is critical. If we can play even a small part in addressing this need by supporting future nurses, then we are proud to do so.”
The Capstone College of Nursing reports strong outcomes among its graduates, including a 99.6% pass rate on the National Council Licensure Examination among its 2025 Bachelor of Science in Nursing class, which is well above national averages.
Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tuscaloosa, AL Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.