WVU Potomac State College alumnus, Gary Parish, is endeavoring to create an endowed scholarship, the Catherine Parish Memorial Nursing Scholarship, in memory of his late wife, Cathy. This heartfelt initiative aims to help aspiring nursing students pursue their passion; thereby, continuing Cathy’s legacy of compassion, dedication, and service.
A longtime Mineral County resident, Cathy served 30 years in nursing at various locations throughout Allegany County, Md. She started in the pediatric unit at the old Sacred Heart Hospital, worked 10 years at Children’s Medical Group, served as a school nurse in Allegany County, and as a nurse with the Allegany County Health Department.
“The original money used to start the endowment was money Cathy and I had saved to travel,” Gary said. “But I knew that I would not be traveling without her, and helping other students pay for college is a way to honor her memory.”
Since the fund's inception, several nursing students have benefitted from this scholarship.
“Several individuals and organizations have already contributed to the scholarship, and words cannot express what their generosity and kindness has meant to me and my family,” Gary added. “I know how much it costs to go to college these days. Had it not been for the WV Higher Education Grant, I may not have been able to attend college, and I don’t want other students to miss out on going to college if they want to go.”
According to April Shapiro, PhD, RN, CNE, who serves as chairperson of the WVU School of Nursing on the WVU Potomac State College campus in Keyser, “We are so very grateful for this funding provided by Gary and his late wife, Cathy. What an impact she had on the nursing profession and our community, and what a wonderful way to pay it forward to our future nurses.
“I cannot emphasize enough the impact this scholarship will have. Providing financial support for nursing students relieves a tremendous burden associated with coming to school to pursue their dreams. It will enable students to focus more on their studies and strategies for success, and less on how they will pay for school. This funding could mean the difference in whether a student is able to attend nursing school or not. We are so thankful to current and future donors who continue this endowment — for their wonderful gift.”
When you donate, you help nursing students achieve their dreams, while also preserving the memory of a beloved nurse who devoted her life to caring for others.
To donate, go to the Catherine Parish Memorial Nursing Scholarship webpage . Thank you for your generosity!