Rural Grant Helps McNeese Nursing Student Earn Degree

Brandy Humphries completed her associate degree in 2002 and began her career as a registered nurse (RN). Humphries decided to return to college in 2019 to complete the RN-to-BSN program at McNeese State University, and now she is pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing degree.

She says she chose McNeese based on the university’s reputation.

“Several of my friends and colleagues are McNeese graduates,” Humphries says. “When I made the decision to continue my education, it was an easy choice to attend McNeese.”

Like many students, Humphries benefited from a scholarship to help her stay on track for graduation.

In 2021 the College of Nursing and Health Professions received a $1.45 million grant to support tuition assistance for the RN-to-BSN program. To qualify, students must currently hold an associate of nursing degree or diploma, be licensed as an RN in Louisiana and reside in one of the 56 Delta Regional Authority parishes.

Humphries received $500 towards each class she took.

“The scholarship allowed me to take more classes at one time so I did not fall behind,” Humphries says. “I didn’t have to worry about the financial strain or time commitment the program could put on my family.”

She completed her undergraduate degree program while continuing to work full time at Longleaf Hospital in Alexandria.

McNeese offers a 100% online RN-to-BSN program to provide flexibility for students without interrupting their daily routine.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect as an online student, but all of my faculty members went above and beyond to guarantee my success,” says Humphries. “All of the resources I needed were easily available and I always had strong communication with my professors.” To learn more about McNeese’s nursing program, visit www.mcneese.edu/nursing/ or call 337-475-5820.