Federal Grant to Strengthen Rural Nursing Programs

September 30, 2026 - 03:07

Stony Brook School of Nursing Associate Dean Brenda Janotha has secured a key federal award from the Health Resources and Services Administration. The funding aims to expand nursing education in rural communities where access to trained healthcare professionals remains a persistent challenge.

The award will support initiatives designed to recruit and retain nursing students from underserved areas. Program leaders say the money will help develop curricula focused on rural health needs, provide clinical placements in remote settings, and offer financial assistance to students who commit to practicing in those communities after graduation.

Rural hospitals and clinics often struggle to fill nursing positions, forcing residents to travel long distances for basic care. By training nurses closer to home and exposing them to rural practice early, the program hopes to build a stable workforce pipeline.

Janotha has worked on similar efforts throughout her career, emphasizing partnerships between academic institutions and local health providers. The grant is expected to fund several cohorts of students over the coming years, along with faculty development and simulation equipment.

Officials describe the award as a recognition of the school's ongoing commitment to addressing health disparities. The first group of supported students is expected to begin coursework in the next academic year.