Stephanie Payne and Sheneice McKelly are the recipients of the BVI Social Security Board’s nursing scholarships.
The Social Security Board (SSB) gave the confirmation in a recent media release which said the scholarship contracts were signed in an intimate ceremony held in the board’s conference room.
According to the release, the two awardees will be pursuing their nursing degrees at the University of the Virgin Islands in the fall 2021 semester.
Acting Director of the SSB Jeannette Scatliffe Boynes spoke to the commitment of the board in the development of nursing in the BVI.
She said, “The Social Security Board is committed to the development of the nursing fraternity and the increase in professional staffing at the Dr. D. Orlando Smith hospital”.
The Board has also offered the recipients the support of its medical staff; namely Dr. Harlan Vanterpool and Mrs. Norma Benjamin. Mrs. Boynes noted: “They are some of the most capable and highly committed individuals in the profession”. She concluded her remarks by encouraging the young women to utilize their support.
Meanwhile, Minister responsible for Social Security Vincent Wheatley, highlighted the critical importance of having nurses; especially considering the recent strain COVID-19 has put on the territory’s healthcare system.
He praised the young women for venturing into healthcare and dedicating their lives to the vocation and commended the Board for actively contributing to bettering our community
“I would like to see more institutions taking this active role in building our community, starting with our youth,” stated Minister Wheatley as he encouraged other organizations to follow in the footsteps of the Board.
The SSB Healthcare Scholarship affords successful candidates the opportunity to study in any healthcare field. It finances both tuition and accommodation; and provides its recipients with mentorship and employment opportunities with established local professionals.