ARLINGTON, Va., May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Six exceptional nursing students are being recognized with March of Dimes Nursing Scholarships for their bold commitment to improving the health of moms and babies. With generous support from Pampers®, a March of Dimes partner for more than 25 years, the 2025 March of Dimes Nursing Scholarship Awards provide $10,000 to each recipient whose work tackles the maternal and infant health crisis and championing better health outcomes in communities across the US.
2025 March of Dimes Nursing Scholarships recipients (clockwise from top left): Bethany Cooper, Hana Hamdi, Karie Stewart, MPH, MSN, CNM, APRN-FPA; Nicole Haas-Loomis, Michael Lopez and Katie Page, CNM, FACNM.
"I'm continually inspired by the dedication of nurses who choose to focus their careers on improving care for moms and babies," said Cindy Rahman, President and CEO of March of Dimes. "These recipients represent the future of maternal and infant health—leaders who understand the challenges firsthand and are committed to making sure families everywhere have a healthy start. We're thankful to Pampers for being such a committed partner in this work, and we're proud to stand alongside these scholars as they build the skills and knowledge that will change lives."
The United States is the most dangerous high-income country to give birth. According to the CDC, over 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths in the US are preventable. Through the Nursing Scholarship program, March of Dimes and Pampers are working together to strengthen the maternal and infant health workforce and help close gaps in care.
"It's in Pampers' DNA to care for the health and happiness of every baby, and we know that we can't fully live out our brand purpose without first addressing the foundation – a healthy and happy parent. We are proud to partner with March of Dimes to support incredible nurses and midwives who dedicate themselves to the care of moms and babies," said Alissa Fitzgibbons, P&G Baby Care Senior Communications Director. "By investing in their education and professional growth, we honor their commitment to nurturing families and enhancing the future of maternal and infant health."
2025 March of Dimes Nursing Scholarship Recipients
Graduate Nursing Scholarships
These awards recognize registered nurses enrolled in graduate-level nursing programs and committed to advancing maternal and infant health.
Katie Page, CNM, FACNM, University of Colorado College of Nursing, PhD Program Margaret Comerford Freda Award Winner "I am deeply committed to advancing maternal and infant health through research and policy that drive meaningful change in care delivery. This scholarship allows me to continue shaping healthcare systems to better serve families nationwide."
Karie E. Stewart, MPH, CNM, FACNM, University of Illinois, Chicago, PhD Program "As a Certified Nurse Midwife, public health professional, and PhD student, my doctoral research is not just academic, it's a mission rooted in lived experiences and a drive to dismantle the systemic barriers that disproportionately impact Black moms and babies. This scholarship will elevate the visibility of innovative and community-driven solutions."
Nurse Midwifery Scholarships
These awards support students in accredited nurse-midwifery programs who work to expand access to midwifery care and post-partum support.
Hana Hamdi, Yale University, MSN Midwifery Program "I'm committed to bridging clinical practice with public health advocacy- expanding midwifery-led primary care, strengthening postpartum support, and ensuring birth centers are adequately resourced. This scholarship from March of Dimes affirms that vision."
Nicole Haas-Loomis, Vanderbilt University, MSN Midwifery Program "I'm committed to expanding access to midwifery care and addressing maternal and infant health disparities through culturally competent, trauma-informed, and evidence-based care. This scholarship will enable me to continue my work as a midwife, educator, and advocate, ensuring every birthing person receives dignified, patient-centered care."
Undergraduate Nursing Scholarships
These awards support undergraduate students who are pursuing careers in maternal and infant health.
Michael Lopez, University of Miami, BSN Program "My journey has been fueled by a deep commitment to maternal and infant health. The values of March of Dimes align closely with my passion for addressing healthcare disparities among moms and infants, and receiving this scholarship will enable me to gain expertise in neonatal nursing."
Bethany Cooper, Avila University, BSN Program "I've dedicated my life to improving maternal health, from global doula work to childbirth education for refugees. Receiving this scholarship will enable me to refine my skills so I can provide life-changing care to others."
About March of Dimes March of Dimes leads the fight for the health of all moms and babies. We support research, education, and advocacy, and provide programs and services so that every family can get the best possible start. Since 1938, we've built a successful legacy to support every pregnant person and every family. Visit marchofdimes.org or nacersano.org for more information.
ABOUT PAMPERS For over 60 years, parents have trusted Pampers to care for their babies. Pampers is a part of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) and is the #1-selling diaper worldwide. Every day, more than 25 million babies in 100 countries around the world wear Pampers. Pampers offers a complete range of diapers, wipes and training underwear designed to provide protection and comfort for every stage of a baby's development. Visit www.pampers.com to learn more about Pampers products, join the Pampers Rewards program, and find information to help you and your baby 'love the change' together.
