Stephen J. Lawler Leadership in Healthcare Scholarship

NCHA would like to congratulate the 2025 winners:
The 2026 application opens early next year. See additional application details and criteria below.

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.

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. 

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

Application Criteria

  • January 2026: Scholarship Application Opens 
  • Late Winter/Early Spring 2026: Application Closes 
  • Spring 2026: Scholarship Application Review 
  • Late Spring/Early Summer 2026: Scholarship Award Notifications/Scholarship Claiming and Payments
  • 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).

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.

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

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

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