AORN Foundation scholarships awarded, frequently asked questions answered

AORN Journal, March, 1999

In 1996, the Scholarship Board modified the scholarship application process, which became effective in 1997. Board members hoped that the changes implemented would accomplish several goals. The first goal was to simplify the application process. The second goal was to eliminate the point system for scoring and make scholarship moneys more accessible to the entire AORN membership. The third goal was to alter the funding period to include two funding periods per annum, which more closely resembles tuition payment requirements for a quarter or semester school system. One additional goal was to increase the number of applications and, therefore, recipients of scholarships. In 1998, these goals were accomplished.

A detailed description of the AORN Foundation and the scholarship funding criteria was published in the November 1998 AORN Journal. Although the information provided in the November article explains the details of the scholarship program, the Scholarship Board receives many questions regarding eligibility and the degrees and programs funded. Some of the more common questions with answers are listed here.

Why aren't certificate programs such as RN first assistant or management certificate programs eligible for scholarship funding?

Moneys for scholarships come entirely through the AORN Foundation. Donors to the Foundation include corporate donors, individuals, and AORN chapters. Each donor has the option of selecting the fund into which the money will be allocated. The funds include research grants, education grants for AORN education offerings or chapter offerings, scholarships, special funding for Congress or the Chapter Leadership Conference for chapter presidents, and a general fund that can be used for Foundation expenses and to fill in other areas where needed. There also is a fund for certificate programs for which the Foundation solicits donations. Thus far, no contributing donors have selected this fund for allocation of their donation; therefore, certificate programs are eligible for funding when and if the donors designate funding for this purpose.

Why does the GPA have to be 3.0 or above?

The Scholarship Board believes that part of the eligibility requirements for receipt of scholarship money is scholastic excellence. A grade average of "B" or above is believed to be a reflection of scholastic excellence.

I was disqualified from receiving a scholarship due to a lapse of membership during the 12-month period before application. This seems unfair, given that I have been an AORN member for many years. Why should a membership lapse make me ineligible?

The AORN national bylaws state that to be a member in good standing and eligible for Association benefits, there must be no lapses of membership as a result of late dues payment. The Scholarship Board must abide by and support the national bylaws. Eligibility to receive scholarships will begin when membership has been maintained for the previous 12-month period. This applies to new members as well.

I know scholarship recipients who are not active at the chapter or national level. Why isn't active involvement in the Association a requirement to receive scholarships?

Before the elimination of the point system, the Scholarship Board did reward and recognize active involvement at both the chapter and national levels: To make scholarship moneys available to a broader spectrum of the membership, the point system was eliminated and, hence, the "points" for active participation were eliminated. This creates a more level playing field for those who are unable to participate due to school, work, or personal schedule conflicts.

Which school expenses can I Include as part of my financial demonstration of need for scholarship funding? Why can't all school-related expenses be Included?

Payment of scholarship funds is reportable to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and must be reported on the recipient's tax returns. As a result of this requirement, the IRS allows only certain expenses to be included. Tuition, books, and other direct school expenses can be included. Indirect expenses such as travel and child care cannot be included. These expenses may qualify as legitimate tax deductions. Check with your accountant for details.

How many times can I apply for scholarship moneys from the Foundation?

Applicants can apply every funding period until they have completed their desired degree. There is no limit to the number of application periods for which applications can be submitted.

Which degrees qualify for scholarship funding?

Generally, any degree in nursing or a health-related/business field is eligible. Other degrees may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Candidates with questions regarding specific degrees may submit a request for consideration to the Scholarship Board and must demonstrate the benefit of the degree to perioperative nursing.

How are the Scholarship Board members selected?

The Scholarship Board is one of the national committees of AORN. Members are selected through the national committee selection process. Any AORN member may submit a willingness-to-serve form to serve on a national committee. If there is a specific interest in serving on the Scholarship Board, this can be indicated on the application form.