Montgomery Community College is proud to announce its participation in the UnitedHealthcare “Future Leaders in Health” scholarship program, a new initiative aimed at training the next generation of rural healthcare professionals.

North Carolina is currently facing a healthcare crisis, with nearly three million residents living in areas without adequate medical professionals. Rural counties are hit the hardest, often operating with half the number of providers per capita compared to urban areas. Projections show that by 2033, the state is expected to face shortfalls of over 12,500 registered nurses and 5,000 licensed practical nurses.

To address this challenge, UnitedHealthcare has invested $500,000 in a new scholarship program that will benefit 400 NC community college students across thirty-five North Carolina Community Colleges, including Montgomery Community College. The scholarship program supports students pursuing both short-term credentials and degrees in healthcare, specifically focusing on Nurse Aide I, Nurse Aide II, Practical Nurse and Associate Degree Nursing coursework.

The scholarships are designed to be comprehensive, covering costs ranging from tuition and testing to basic living expenses and transportation. This gift is the latest chapter in UnitedHealthcare’s commitment to North Carolina’s rural health infrastructure. Interested MCC students should contact their Success Navigator, Academic Advisor or the Financial Aid Office to learn more.