$62,555 Grant from Bishop-Parker Foundation Enhances SCF Nursing Program
The State College of Florida Foundation has been awarded a $62,555 grant from the Bishop-Parker Foundation to support innovative enhancements to the State College of Florida (SCF) Nursing program. The funding addresses two critical healthcare challenges: reducing medication errors through advanced simulation technology and expanding access to Spanish-speaking nurses to serve Florida’s diverse population.
To help prevent medication errors, a significant issue in U.S. healthcare, the grant has funded three SimServeRx medication management systems. These devices, located at SCF’s Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, and Venice campuses, give students hands-on experience with technology used in modern hospitals.
“The SimServe medication administration trainers help us to apply real-world knowledge and hands-on experience to better prepare us for entry into the nursing field,” said Bethany Mahurin, a Level 3 SCF Nursing student.
The grant also supports a new course for dual-language nursing students. The curriculum emphasizes communication and patient-centered care, critical skills for serving the large Spanish-speaking population in Manatee County and beyond.
“These funds make a real difference for our dual language students and for the patients they will one day serve,” said Dr. Tammy Sawmelle, Dean of Nursing & Education at SCF. “By strengthening communication and soft skills now, we improve student outcomes and ensure our graduates are prepared to deliver safe, high-quality care.”
About the State College of Florida Foundation
The SCF Foundation is a direct support fundraising organization for State College of Florida, the region’s oldest and largest public post-secondary institution serving Sarasota, Manatee, and surrounding counties. The Foundation connects donors’ passions and regional partners with SCF’s outstanding students, faculty, programs, and community. It is proud to support scholarships, building projects, equipment, program needs, and other essential priorities. For more information or to donate to SCF Foundation, visit SCF-Foundation.org.
About Bishop-Parker Foundation
Inspired by the philanthropic legacies of its founders, the Bishop-Parker Foundation supports nonprofit and public partners who collaborate to advance the Manatee County community for current and future generations. For more information, contact Wendy Deming at wendy@bishopparkerfoundation.org.