The OADN Foundation Board of Directors announces the annual call for applications for the 2026 OADN Foundation Scholarships, Awards, and Grants. These opportunities provide meaningful support to OADN members by investing in faculty and students committed to advancing associate degree nursing (ADN) education. Through scholarships, awards, and grants, the OADN Foundation continues to strengthen the mission and vision of OADN by expanding resources, supporting professional growth, and recognizing excellence in ADN education. With the continued support of valued partners and sponsors, the Foundation remains dedicated to making a positive impact on nurse educators, students, and the communities they serve across the country.
Expanded Funding Opportunities
Over the years, the OADN Foundation has steadily expanded the scope of its financial support, creating more opportunities for faculty and students. Each year brings continued growth in the number and impact of scholarships, awards, and grants available to the OADN community.
In recent years, the Foundation introduced new opportunities including student scholarships sponsored by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses and a simulation grant made possible through the generous support of iHuman Patients by Kaplan. These initiatives complement the Foundation’s established programs that support academic progression, professional development, leadership, service, and scholarly research.
New This Year
The OADN Foundation is pleased to introduce the Archer Review Grant for AI in Nursing Education, sponsored by Archer Review. This grant supports innovative, faculty-led projects that explore the integration of artificial intelligence in nursing education. The focus is on enhancing teaching effectiveness, improving student learning, and strengthening outcomes within associate degree nursing programs. One annual award of $2,500 will support the thoughtful and effective use of AI in nursing education.
Also new this year, the OADN Foundation announces the Brian Bright Senior ADN Student Scholarships, made possible through a generous investment from Brian Bright. Beginning this year, five annual scholarships of $2,000 each will be awarded to senior students enrolled in OADN member associate degree nursing programs. This multi-year commitment extends through 2030 and is designed to provide financial support during the final stage of students’ nursing education.
To further recognize student achievement, up to two recipients from the OADN Annual Convention host city, or an adjacent city within the same state, will receive priority consideration. This reflects the donor’s interest in engaging with and recognizing scholarship recipients during the OADN Annual Convention.
The OADN Foundation Research Grantcontinues to align with OADN’s strategic priority of developing a high-impact research agenda to support associate degree nursing education. This grant provides funding opportunities for faculty and graduate students conducting research that advances teaching and learning, strengthens workforce development, and supports the continued excellence of ADN programs.
“I strongly encourage faculty and students to explore these opportunities and apply. The scholarships, awards, and grants offered through the OADN Foundation strengthen associate degree nursing programs while supporting the professional development of those who educate and prepare the nursing workforce,” said Donna Meyer, MSN, RN, ANEF, FAADN, FAAN, President of the OADN Foundation.
Honorary Awards and Recognition
The OADN Foundation also honors individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedicated service in advancing associate degree nursing education and practice. We invite nominations and self-nominations for one of the Foundation’s four honorary awards:
- Bobbie Anderson Leadership Award
- Elsevier Educator of the Year Award
- NurseThink New Educator of the Year Award
- Donna Meyer Visionary Impact Award
These awards provide a meaningful way to recognize a valued colleague, trusted mentor, or visionary leader within the ADN community.
“The OADN Foundation remains committed to investing in the success of ADN faculty and students,” notes Rick García, PhD, RN, CCM, FAAOHN, FNYAM, FAADN, Chief Executive Officer, OADN and the OADN Foundation. “Through financial support, recognition, and new initiatives such as grants focused on emerging areas like artificial intelligence in nursing education, we continue to advance innovation and strengthen the future of the ADN pathway.”
How to Apply & Deadlines
The application process for scholarships, awards, and grants is available online. To apply, visit the OADN Foundation page and select the award, scholarship, or grant of interest under “Applications & Resources” in the right hand column. Each listing includes eligibility criteria and a direct application link through SurveyMonkey.
Applicants and nominators are encouraged to carefully review the application instructions, gather all required materials, and thoroughly proofread submissions before applying.
Please note the deadline for the specific award you are applying for.
The OADN Foundation extends its deep appreciation to all supporters for their continued commitment to associate degree nursing education. The Foundation looks forward to recognizing the achievements of this year’s recipients as they progress in their professional journeys.
Sincerely,
Donna Meyer, MSN, RN, ANEF, FAADN, FAAN
President, OADN Foundation
Rick García Ph.D, RN, CCM, FAAOHN, FNYAM, FAADN
Chief Executive Officer, OADN and the OADN Foundation