Scholarships

Oklahoma Association of Clinical Nurse Specialist Mentorship Program:

Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses

 

 Program Purpose

This annual mentorship program connects up to two aspiring nurses with an experienced Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) for a year-long mentorship experience. It is designed to support individuals who are exploring or advancing their nursing careers by offering personal mentorship. This program aims to:

  • Inspire the next generation of nurses and advanced practice leaders
  • Clarify the CNS role and nursing career pathways
  • Promote equity and opportunity in nursing through direct mentorship
  • Support the mentee in developing foundational skills, academic goals, and professional confidence

 

 Program Structure 

Eligibility

Mentors:

  • Clinical Nurse Specialists with a strong commitment to professional development and mentorship, preferably a member of OACNS.

Mentees:

  • Pre-nursing students, nursing students, or already licensed nurses interested in becoming CNSs
  • No prior advanced practice experience is required
  • Must submit a two-paragraph essay as part of the application:
    • Why do they want to participate in this mentorship program
    • Why are they pursuing a career in nursing, and potentially as a CNS

 

Program Frequency

  • The program runs once per year, from January to December
  • Up to two mentees will be selected annually to ensure a focused, high-impact experience

 

Selection Process

  • Applications reviewed by the President-Elect, Board of Directors, and/or Program Coordinator
  • Selection based on clarity of goals, passion for nursing, and potential for growth 

 

Duration

  • 12-month commitment
  • Structured quarterly check-ins to evaluate progress and support goal development

 

 Mentor-Mentee Matching

  • One-on-one pairing based on the mentee’s interests and goals
  • Relationship facilitated and supported by the President-Elect and/or program coordinator

 

 Program Components

 Orientation & Welcome

  • Introduction to the CNS role and pathways in nursing
  • Review of expectations, timelines, communication, and mentorship principles

Mentorship Activities

  • Quarterly one-on-one sessions (virtual or in-person)
  • Career guidance, storytelling, and role exploration
  • Coaching on academic planning, nursing school progression, and CNS pathways
  • Exposure to nursing values, leadership development, and clinical thinking 

One-Time Mentee Award

  • Upon successful completion of the 12-month program, the mentee will receive a one-time award (e.g., gift, scholarship stipend, educational gift card, or professional development grant)
  • The nature and amount of the award will be determined by available program funding equal to up to $500

Skill-Building & Encouragement

  • Mentorship in areas such as clinical performance, system aspects, time management, study strategies, and self-advocacy
  • Encouragement in personal growth and resilience in nursing 

Community Connection

  • Opportunities to connect with other CNSs and nursing professionals through virtual events or optional panels
  • Mentee recognized in an end-of-program celebration

 

 Evaluation & Impact

 Success Indicators

  • Mentee satisfaction, growth, and clarity in pursuing nursing/CNS path
  • Mentor’s professional fulfillment and engagement
  • Continued involvement of mentees in nursing education and advancement

 Tools

  • Pre-program a 2-paragraph entrance essay for selection
  • Ongoing mentor feedback
  • Final impact statement from the mentee and the end of the program

Budget Considerations

  • Annual one-time award for the mentee (scholarship, educational support)
  • Volunteer mentorship model
  • Minimal program overhead using digital communication platforms
  • Recognition items (e.g., certificate or gift) for mentor and mentee
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