Supporting the Next Generation of Healthcare Workers
After a 10-year hiatus from higher education, Idris Caldwell decided to go back to school to pursue his passion: helping others through nursing. He recently graduated from Community College of Philadelphia’s registered nursing program.
“I’m forever grateful for UNCF,” Caldwell said. During his nursing program, Caldwell joined the UNCF Healthcare Workforce Diversity Program, made possible by partner AbbVie, a research-based global biopharmaceutical company. The comprehensive historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) healthcare professionals pipeline program prepares and motivates Black individuals to pursue a wide variety of careers in healthcare, addressing racial imbalances in the workforce that can exacerbate health disparities and improving the quality of healthcare for vulnerable people.
Caldwell received a scholarship through the program, which allowed him to cut back his hours at work and focus more on the intensity of nursing school.
“I realized some time ago that my true purpose in life was to help others, to give back to my community,” he shared. “I hope to use my skills and passion to serve populations who often go overlooked and underserved, especially those who suffer from substance use disorder. As someone in long-term recovery, I understand how imperative it is to provide compassionate, non-judgmental care.”
Now, Caldwell is heading to West Chester University, with plans to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing. His goal is to become a nurse practitioner to help those afflicted with substance use disorders or mental health issues.
“My mom always told me that education is the key to success,” he said. “From the bottom of my heart, I truly thank [UNCF] for all you’ve done” to make his educational success a reality.
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships and programs are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Idris Caldwell in their academic endeavors.