Beaufort, South Carolina, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Congresswoman Nancy Mace announced a $3.87 million grant for the University of South Carolina Beaufort to enhance nursing education and tackle the projected nursing shortage in the state. The funding will support USCB’s Lowcountry IMPACT project, which aims to provide stipends and support services for nursing students, ensuring better preparation and retention. With an acute nursing shortage projected to reach 19% in South Carolina by 2037, this initiative is pivotal for bolstering the local healthcare workforce and improving nursing education.
Beaufort, South Carolina – Congresswoman Nancy Mace has announced a significant $3.87 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration for the University of South Carolina Beaufort (USCB). This funding aims to enhance nursing education and address the imminent nursing shortage projected to reach a 19% deficit in South Carolina by 2037.
The grant will support USCB’s Lowcountry IMPACT project, which is designed to provide stipends and various support services for nursing students, thereby improving their preparation and retention rates. With more than 100 nursing students already enrolled at USCB this semester, the program is critical in guiding these future healthcare providers towards graduation and employment.
The nursing shortage in South Carolina is acute, as a report from StaffDNA indicates a 28% shortage of nurses within the state. By 2036, it is anticipated that South Carolina will face the seventh-largest nursing shortage in the U.S., leading to approximately 13,600 vacancies. The aging population is a contributing factor, with over 1 million residents expected to be 65 or older by 2030. In response, USCB is adapting its curriculum to meet the needs of this demographic.
The funding from the grant will cover various specific resources, including scholarships, financial assistance, tutoring, peer mentoring, workshops, and a transition to practice program for nursing students. However, eligibility for these funds requires that recipients be South Carolina residents and commit to working in the state after graduation.
USCB Provost Dr. Kim Dudas expressed appreciation for the grant, acknowledging the university’s success and commitment to nursing education. The partnership with Beaufort Memorial Hospital has also facilitated the recent expansion of the nursing program, underscoring the institution’s dedication to addressing local healthcare challenges.
The newly established $2.8 million training center at USCB, funded through local, state, and federal investments, includes state-of-the-art simulation labs and classrooms. This facility is designed to provide hands-on experiences for students, including innovative AI-powered manikins that allow for realistic patient simulations during training. Such advancements play a vital role in preparing nursing students for real-world healthcare environments.
Addressing the pressing need for qualified nurses in rural and underserved areas of South Carolina remains a top priority. With the support of this grant and the ongoing efforts of USCB, the hope is to not only meet the staffing demands of the healthcare sector but also to ensure that nursing students are adequately prepared for their careers.
Key Facts Summary:
- Grant Amount: $3.87 million
- Issuing Body: Health Resources and Services Administration
- Projected Nursing Deficit: 19% by 2037
- Nursing Shortage in SC: 28% reported shortage
- Eligible Students: South Carolina residents committed to working locally
- Training Center Cost: $2.8 million, with advanced technology
- Current Nursing Enrollment: Over 100 students
FAQ
What is the amount of the grant announced for USC Beaufort?
The grant announced for USC Beaufort is $3.87 million.
What is the projected nursing shortage in South Carolina by 2037?
The projected nursing shortage in South Carolina is expected to reach a 19% deficit by 2037.
What support does the grant provide for nursing students?
The grant provides support such as scholarships, financial assistance, tutoring, peer mentoring, workshops, and a transition to practice program.
What is the main focus of the nursing program at USC Beaufort?
The main focus of the nursing program at USC Beaufort is training nurses for rural and underserved areas in South Carolina.
Key Features of the Grant and Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | $3.87 million |
| Projected Nursing Deficit | 19% by 2037 |
| Funding Purposes | Stipends and support services for nursing students |
| Support Resources | Scholarships, tutoring, mentoring, workshops |
| Eligible Students | South Carolina residents committed to local employment |
| New Training Center Cost | $2.8 million |
| Nursing Enrollment | Over 100 students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of South Carolina Beaufort Receives Major Grant to Tackle Nursing Shortage
USCB Secures $3.8 Million Grant to Combat Nursing Shortage
New Nursing Cohort Begins at USCB’s Beaufort Memorial PATH Center
Beaufort Memorial Hospital Partners with USCB for Nursing Training Center
University of South Carolina Beaufort Celebrates Spring Commencement
Beaufort County Unveils Memorial Day 2025 Celebration Schedule
Beaufort Protests Against Trump and Musk Policies
University Program Enhances Community Engagement in Bluffton
Beaufort Memorial Launches Innovative Career Development Center to Combat Healthcare Workforce Shortages
Additional Resources
- Live5 News: SC University Awarded Grant to Combat State Nursing Shortage
- SC Daily Gazette: USC Beaufort Nursing Students To Receive Financial Aid Job Placements Under $3.8M Federal Grant
- Quiver Quant: Press Release: Congresswoman Nancy Mace Announces $3.87 Million Grant for USC Beaufort Nursing Program
- NY1: South Carolina News: MUSC New Scholarship
- Live5 News: Nurse Escapes Attacker in Hospital Parking Lot
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