VITAS Healthcare Donates $15,000 to Support Nursing Education at Gulf Coast State College

December 7, 2020

PANAMA CITY, FL — Nursing students at Gulf Coast State College (GCSC) in Panama City can focus more on their studies and less on the financial stresses of college tuition, thanks to a $15,000 donation by VITAS Healthcare to the college’s foundation.

Kenn Wallace, general manager for VITAS in Panama City, cited a growing need for talented healthcare professionals as he presented the check to representatives of the college’s foundation. VITAS began providing hospice care to patients and families in a six-county Panama City area in July 2020.

“VITAS is committed to supporting our communities by investing in future generations of talented, compassionate nurses.”

“As the nation’s leading provider of end-of-life care, VITAS is committed to supporting our communities by investing in future generations of talented, compassionate nurses,” Wallace said. “With this donation, we hope to relieve some of the economic and educational burdens imposed by COVID-19 so that deserving students can pursue satisfying healthcare careers.”

GCSC offers bachelor and associate degrees and technical certification programs, including degrees and instruction in nursing, health science and emergency services. The college’s foundation is responsible for endowments, donations and estate gifts that support scholarships for deserving students.

“We are extremely grateful for VITAS' support of Gulf Coast students and their education,” said Lori Eldridge, GCSC Foundation donor relations coordinator. “Since our scholarships can be used with other student financial aid, this support can allow our nursing students to focus completely on their education.”

VITAS provides interdisciplinary hospice care to patients and families in Bay, Calhoun, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson and Washington counties. To learn more about end-of-life care or a career in hospice, visit VITAS.com.