Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC) and Golden Valley Health Centers Foundation are now accepting applications for the Flora Martinez Nursing Scholarship program. A total of $25,000 in scholarships will be awarded this summer to five local students pursuing careers in nursing. Criteria for the selection is based on the application, academic performance, a career goal with a commitment to nursing and the financial need of each applicant. Selections are made by a committee of volunteers from the Health Center and Foundation’s Board of Directors.
The scholarship program, named after one of the organization’s founding board members, Flora Martinez, is a tribute in her honor, and recognizes the essential care provided by nurses. Martinez served as a GVHC Board Member for 43 years. She believed in the GVHC mission and understood the love and dedication nurses bring to the profession. Upon her passing in 2014, her son promised to continue her legacy, and the Flora R. Martinez Scholarship was created. Flora’s granddaughter now serves on the Foundation Board of Directors.
“As the granddaughter of Flora R. Martinez, I am deeply honored to witness her enduring legacy through the nursing scholarship that bears her name,” said Karla Seijas. “This scholarship not only honors my grandmother’s contributions but also inspires future generations to continue her mission of promoting access to healthcare for all.”
Golden Valley Health Centers CEO David Quackenbush also supports the program.
“Nurses are critical to the healthcare system,” he said. “We see this as an important investment in the health and well-being of our communities because providing compassionate, skilled care is what nurses do.”
Applicants from the GVHC service area of San Joaquin, Merced and Stanislaus counties are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2025. The application and submission instructions are online at gvhc.org/foundation/scholarships/ or available via email, at Foundation@gvhc.org
The mission of Golden Valley Health Centers is to provide access to high-quality health care for all, serving with dignity, respect and compassion. Golden Valley Health Centers operates 47 clinics across Merced, Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties, providing healthcare services to 160,000 diverse patient populations since 1972. For more information, visit gvhc.org
