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is proud to announce the establishment of the Charles D. Joseph Nursing Scholarship, a new scholarship dedicated to supporting students in OHIO Eastern’s nursing program.

Thanks to the generosity of Charles D. Joseph, a Barnesville native and 51���� alumnus, this scholarship will provide essential financial assistance to nursing students, strengthening both the program and opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals in the region.

A legacy of giving back

For Joseph, establishing this scholarship is a way to give back to the institution that laid the foundation for his success.

“OHIO Eastern played a significant role in my education and personal growth,” Joseph said. “The opportunities I had here shaped my future, and I wanted to ensure that today’s students have similar chances to succeed.”

A 1966 graduate of Barnesville High School, Joseph attended OHIO Eastern from 1966 to 1970 before graduating summa cum laude with his bachelor’s degree from 51����. He later obtained a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree from 51����'s Patton College of Education in 1979. Joseph served 33 years in active military service, retiring as an Air Force colonel in 2005, after a combined career in the Army and Air Force.

After his military service, Joseph transitioned into financial ventures and investments. When discussing scholarship opportunities with OHIO Eastern Dean David Rohall, he saw a meaningful way to give back to the institution that played a pivotal role in his education.

“Nursing is a relatively new program at OHIO Eastern and does not have many, if any, named scholarships,” Joseph said. “Since I attended 51���� Eastern while working, I understand how valuable financial assistance can be. I hope recipients of this scholarship will be lifetime learners and continue to strive for excellence. Additionally, I hope that someday, they too will be in a position to pay it forward.”

Joseph was inspired to establish this scholarship by his wife, Jo Ann, a retired registered nurse who dedicated 40 years to serving patients at the Cleveland Clinic.

“This scholarship honors her many years of professional and dedicated service,” he said.

Supporting future nurses

The Charles D. Joseph Nursing Scholarship is awarded to students enrolled in or accepted into OHIO Eastern’s nursing program who demonstrate both financial need and academic merit.

First preference is given to graduates of Barnesville High School, while second preference is given to graduates from any high school in Belmont County, Ohio. The scholarship will help selected students cover approximately one-third of tuition costs for up to two years.

Impact on students

This year’s inaugural recipient, Isabella Parker, embodies the dedication and perseverance that Joseph hopes to support through his scholarship.

"My long-term goals in nursing focus on women's health," Parker shared. "After graduation, I will be working in the Emergency Department at Barnesville Hospital and plan to further my education in forensics. One of my main goals is to become a certified sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) and possibly collaborate with the criminal justice system."

Reflecting on her journey, Parker acknowledged the difficulties of nursing school.

"It can be extremely challenging mentally, physically, emotionally and financially," Parker said. "Receiving this scholarship was unexpected but has been incredibly helpful this semester. It has allowed me to focus on my studies and reduce the stress of my final semester. Now, I can concentrate on providing safe, compassionate care for my patients and have more time to prepare for my NCLEX licensing exam."

Strengthening OHIO Eastern’s Nursing Program

The addition of the Charles D. Joseph Nursing Scholarship underscores OHIO Eastern’s commitment to growing and supporting its nursing program. Rohall emphasized the significance of this scholarship for both students and the university.

“This scholarship enhances opportunities for local students while strengthening 51���� Eastern’s nursing program,” said Rohall. “By alleviating some of the financial burdens of nursing school, it allows students to focus on their coursework and clinical training. We are incredibly grateful for Joseph’s generosity and commitment to advancing healthcare education in our region.”

Matt Fox, associate professor and associate director of nursing at OHIO Eastern, highlighted the rigorous nature of nursing education and the importance of financial support.

“Nursing students face intense academic and clinical demands, often balancing coursework with hands-on training and exams,” Fox said. “Financial barriers can make this even more challenging. The Charles D. Joseph Nursing Scholarship provides vital assistance, ensuring that dedicated students like Parker can fully commit to their studies and become the compassionate, skilled nurses our communities need.”

For more information on OHIO Eastern’s nursing program and scholarship opportunities, visit ohio.edu/eastern/academics/bachelor/nursing.