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Viola N. Thompson Scholarships

The Trust was created in memory of Mrs. Thompson in 1981 and has been awarding scholarships ever since.

Nursing students in class Nursing students in class

$300,000 in scholarships has been awarded since 2000 alone. Any person accepted into, or currently enrolled in a health care professional curriculum offering a degree or certification is eligible. Scholarships are up to $10,000 annually. Once awarded, the students remain eligible for consideration for future scholarships. Other terms and conditions may apply.

Applications are accepted annually from Nov. 1 to Nov. 30.

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Application process

The Selection Committee is comprised of hospital auxiliary members and staff. The Committee awards annual scholarships to health care students enrolled in curriculums offering a health care degree or certification. 

Desks in a one-room school house

Viola's story

Viola’s parents owned and operated a hotel in Greenville. Viola was born in 1894 and later married Harold Thompson. The two lived out their lives on their farm. Viola loved tending to her farm animals and cats. She was the schoolteacher in a one-room country schoolhouse and once retired, became a charter member for the Bond County Retired Teachers Association in 1959.

Viola was a dedicated Christian woman, did not have children, and lived very frugally. They bought what they needed but didn’t embellish. And that is why many were surprised when she bequeathed $350,000 to be put into a trust fund for training nurses and other health care personnel.