It’s that time of year! Windom Area Health Foundation is excited to award scholarships this year to students pursuing healthcare careers. These scholarships are part of our mission to “promote exceptional quality care and wellbeing for rural communities in southwest Minnesota.” That quality care depends on top-notch healthcare professional
That’s why we offer our Education Fund, which supports local students who are committed to pursuing a career in healthcare. Scholarships help offset the cost of schooling and are a way for donors in our community to directly support our future healthcare workforce.
“Access to healthcare in rural communities is not just about treatment—it's about ensuring that every person has the opportunity to live a healthy life, no matter where they live,” says Landon Johnson, Director of Nursing. “In rural areas, healthcare is a lifeline that connects individuals to well-being, reduces disparities, and strengthens the fabric of these communities.”
We are proud that many of our local healthcare providers have a passion for small town care, have grown up in Windom or similar rural areas, and have even been past recipients of the Foundation scholarship.
Scholarship Eligibility
High school seniors or college students in Cottonwood County or its surrounding counties, who are actively pursuing a career in healthcare, are eligible to apply. The scholarship application window runs February 2 – March 19. Application criteria focuses on the student’s demonstration of leadership, integrity, community service, and commitment to pursuing a healthcare field of study.
In 2026, we are proud to offer $18,000 in awards, through $2,500 and $1,000 scholarships. For the $1,000 award consideration, students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and have two references. For awards $2,500+, students need to have a GPA of at least 3.5 and submit three reference forms. Reference form templates are available on the Foundation website page.
All applicants must write an essay showcasing why they are pursuing a healthcare career and how they align with the award criteria. Documentation of GPA and acceptance/enrollment in a post-secondary healthcare-related program are also required. Applicants should submit all materials on the electronic submission platform.
Past applicants and awardees are eligible to re-apply, so long as they meet all the award criteria. Students who are selected for the scholarships will be asked to submit a photograph for marketing use. Awards are paid out to the student’s school account balance after the successful completion of the first semester.
For more information, contact Katie Greener, Director of Foundation and Auxiliary, at [email protected] or 507-831-0633.