Rivier University receives additional $1.5 million gift from the Bedford Falls Foundation to expand nursing scholarships

This new gift builds on the Foundation’s initial $2 million commitment to Rivier and will provide enhanced scholarship support for deserving undergraduate nursing students over the next three years. The Bedford Falls Foundation, established by philanthropist and Nashua native William Conway, Jr. and his late wife, Joanne Barkett Conway, supports more than 50 nursing schools across the country.

“With profound gratitude for the continued partnership of the Bedford Falls Foundation, Rivier is positioned to prepare even more nurses who will make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and families across New Hampshire and beyond,” says Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President. “This additional investment strengthens our mission and accelerates the vital work of addressing the region’s critical nursing shortage.”

Rivier’s Division of Nursing and Health Professions is widely recognized for its exceptional preparation of highly skilled, compassionate nursing professionals who are ready to lead in today’s complex healthcare environment. With state, regional, and national rankings, including recognition as the #1 Nursing School in New Hampshire and one of the Top 50 private nursing schools in the country, Rivier continues to set the standard for excellence in nursing education.

“The generosity of the Bedford Falls Foundation removes financial barriers, allowing our students to focus on their academic preparation, clinical training, and service to the community,” says Dr. Paula Williams, Dean of the Division of Nursing and Health Professions and Vice President for Academic Affairs. “This transformative support will have a lasting impact on the quality of care our Rivier graduates provide across the region.”

For more information about the Joanne and William Conway Nursing Scholarship or Rivier University’s nursing programs, visit www.rivier.edu/conway.