Broward College Honors Three Nursing Students as 2018-2019 Aspen Siemens Technical Scholars

Students receive scholarships totaling $25,000 for outstanding performance and leadership in STEM fields

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL (October 3, 2018) – Broward College recognized three of its outstanding nursing students who were named Aspen Siemens Technical Scholars at a special event on Monday, October 1. The award is given to exceptional students across the country who participate in renowned STEM programs.

The scholars were chosen by the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program, in partnership with community colleges that win the Siemens-Aspen Community College STEM Award. Broward College was one of eight colleges that won the award in February. The College received a $50,000 grant, half of which provided direct support to the nursing program and the other $25,000 will be used to support the named scholars.

The Broward College Nursing program was recognized by the award panel for starting early in the student journey by helping aspiring students gain the skills they need for admission. This strategy allows the program to build talent from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and low-income student populations. Broward College's strong relationships with local hospitals also allow nurse recruiters to engage students in work agreements and offer scholarships, resulting in a 93 percent graduation rate.

"We're thrilled that our students have received this national recognition for all of their hard work and dedication," said President Gregory Haile. "The award honors not only our commitment to training in the STEM fields, but our emphasis on diversity and continuously working to make sure our programs are as innovative and accessible as possible."

Meet our Scholars:

• Edj Cadet is a 21-year-old Haitian native and a first-generation college student. She is pursuing an associate degree in Nursing with a concentration in Pediatric Nursing and will graduate in December 2018.
• Joel Zisholtz is a first-generation college student, pursuing an associate degree in Nursing. Zisholtz's parents emigrated from Russia. He enrolled at Broward College in January 2016 to follow his passion after completing his bachelor's degree at a local university.
• Karine Augustin is Haitian-American. She completed her ASN degree at Broward College and returned two years later to pursue her bachelor's degree. She is also a candidate for admission into the Broward College Nursing Honor Society.