Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship – Apply Today!

The Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship, established in honor of Steve Lawler, NCHA’s CEO Emeritus, recognizes his outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to improving the health of our communities. This annual scholarship is designed to support aspiring healthcare leaders who demonstrate a passion for driving positive change in the healthcare field.

There will be two awards totaling $5,000 ($2,500 each), one for a student pursuing education in a healthcare field and the other for a graduate of or enrollee in the NCHF Diverse Healthcare Leaders Mentorship Program seeking professional development.

Applicants should embody Steve Lawler’s commitment to innovation, compassionate leadership, and community service. This scholarship aims to inspire current and future healthcare professionals to pursue excellence and continue the legacy of leadership and service that Steve Lawler exemplified throughout his career. 

Apply here and see additional application details and criteria below.

If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund, you can do so by clicking here.

Application Criteria

  • February 3: Scholarship Application Opens 
  • March 28: Application Closes 
  • April: Scholarship Application Review 
  • End of April-Early May: Scholarship Award Notifications 
  • May: Scholarship Claiming and Payments
  • May 30: Deadline to Claim Scholarship 
  • Be a current North Carolina resident or a North Carolina resident student for tuition purposes. Click here to learn more and determine your status.
  • Enrolled in an accredited college or university in North Carolina pursuing a healthcare career focused certificate or degree.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent.
  • Enrolled in good standing at the college or university through December 31, 2025. 
  • Graduate of or enrollee in the NCHF Diverse Healthcare Leaders Mentorship Program.
  • Employed in North Carolina and actively working in healthcare. 
  • Pursuing an accredited professional development certification, event that provides CEUs or post-graduate education at an accredited institution.

Please submit the following:

  • A short essay (350 words or fewer) describing why you want to go into healthcare and your career aspirations.
  • A letter of recommendation.
  • A copy of transcript (note: can be unofficial) (students) OR a resume (professionals).

Apply here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a minimum GPA to be considered for a scholarship award? 

Yes, to be considered for the Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship your GPA must be a minimum 3.0 at the time of application. This is only applicable for the student scholarship.

Are the awards available to students who have parents living in North Carolina but attend school in another state? 

The Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship may only be used at post-secondary schools in North Carolina. This is only applicable for the student scholarship.

What if I am given a scholarship award but decide to wait a year before enrolling in the college program. Can I hold the award until I’m ready? 

All awards are for use in the upcoming academic year. If you decide not to enroll and attend post-secondary school, the award will be forfeited, and you will need to complete the application process again when you are ready. This is only applicable for the student scholarship.

 I received an award last year. Does it automatically renew? 

Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship awards do not automatically renew. All applicants must go through the application process each year. 

What if I change schools before August and decide to attend another NC college? 

Awards can be transferred to a different school prior to the beginning of the term. Please contact us using the information below. This is only applicable for the student scholarship.

What is the deadline to apply for the scholarship?

The scholarship deadline is March 28, 2025, and transcripts must be received, and time stamped by 11:59pm. 

How will I know if I have been selected as an award recipient? 

All award recipients will be notified in May via the email provided. Winners will be announced at NCHA’s Summer Membership Meeting in July 2025 and posted on NCHA’s website and social media. 

NCHA Staff Contact