Freeman Auxiliary Donates $14,000 to Area Nursing Schools

JOPLIN, Mo. – “Freeman Health System simply could not exist without our talented, caring and dedicated nursing staff, and we couldn’t have a great nursing staff without the great nursing programs in our area,” said Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer Paula Baker. 

Baker joined the Freeman Auxiliary on Wednesday to present $2,000 checks to seven nursing schools, for a total of $14,000.

Throughout the year, Freeman provides student nurses with hands-on experience and behind-the-scenes learning opportunities, working alongside Freeman nurses, who we think are the best nurses in the world. 

“We thank these nursing programs for turning out truly exceptional nurses – individuals who are not only highly skilled and quick thinking, but also compassionate with hearts for service,” said Baker. “Nurses lead patients and their families through some of life’s most frightening and difficult moments, explaining what will happen next and easing their fears. We’re honored to award these funds to further nursing education in the Four States.”

The donations are given each year to Crowder College, Northeastern Oklahoma College (NEO),
Missouri Southern State University, Pittsburg State University, Labette Community
College, Carthage Technical School and Franklin Technology Center. Donations have
previously been used to purchase equipment for hands-on instruction and may also be used 
for student scholarships.

“The opportunities provided to students in our area schools is outstanding,” said Freeman Volunteer Services and Gift Shop Manager Tara Horinek. “Freeman Auxiliary ensures education is a top priority in their charitable giving. Our Auxiliary is proud to be able to donate to these programs to help further expand the technology and experiences schools have available for nursing students.” 

Each year, Freeman volunteers raise money for the Auxiliary through Freeman Gift Galleries, raffles, sales and various events. Freeman Auxiliary also supports the purchase of hospital equipment, services, scholarships and community needs. 

Photo information: Jeanee’ Kennedy, Freeman Chief Nursing Officer, Amber Kinder, Freeman Director of Nursing Resources; Kathleen Norma, NEO; Dr. Delyna Bohnenblust, Labette Community College; Dr. Cheryl Giefer, PSU; Katie Bozarth, Franklin Technical Center; Paula Baker, Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer; Eliana Lewis, Freeman Auxiliary President; Coeta Ogle and Kelly Wilson, Carthage Technical Center; Dr. Sunny Lawrence and Dr. Lisa Beals, MSSU; Sandra Wilson, Crowder College; Jeff Thompson, Freeman Chief Clinical Officer.