PHEF CEO Michael Hershock recognized by College of Nursing

Villanova, PA, April 15, 2008 — Villanova University College of Nursing gave special recognition to a member of the community, Michael H. Hershock, for his support of nursing education during its 19th Annual Mass and Alumni Awards Ceremony on April 5. The event was held in the St. Thomas of Villanova Church on the University campus.

Applauding the contributions to nursing of PHEF CEO
and president Michael Hershock (center) are Rev.
Peter M. Donohue, O.S.A., University president and
Dean M. Louise Fitzpatrick..

Connelly Endowed Dean and Professor M. Louise Fitzpatrick Ed.D., R.N., FAAN read a citation about the accomplishments and contributions of Hershock, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Foundation (PHEF). After a career of service at the state level, most notably as president and CEO of American Education Services/Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency from 1994 to 2002, Hershock assumed his current position at PHEF in 2003.

PHEF was created to bring the resources of the private sector into active participation for support of students pursuing higher education. In setting its agenda, this organization identified scholarship support of those pursing careers in nursing and nursing education as its initial priority. Partnering with Independence Blue Cross (IBC) of Philadelphia and its leadership, as well as with other corporations within the Commonwealth, Hershock catalyzed a program that has made a significant difference in preparing individuals for careers in nursing, while addressing the dire shortage of nurses and nurse faculty in the Commonwealth and the nation.

Support of students in basic programs as well as advanced study at the master’s and doctoral levels is making a difference in ensuring care for people who require it and prepared faculty to guarantee the continuous flow of well-educated nurses into the practice field. Two hundred and thirty four College of Nursing students have received $1.3 million in scholarship assistance from PHEF/IBC since 2003. The College has benefited from clinical faculty loan programs in partnership with The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and Bryn Mawr Hospital. Summer internships at IBC headquarters as well as in clinics supported by IBC have also been made possible. Through Hershock’s vision, commitment and ability to forge alliances and partnerships with the corporate world, these nursing students will improve patient care and make care more accessible. Likewise, more expert faculty will be prepared for nursing education positions across the Commonwealth.

“Nurses are very emotionally committed to the career they have chosen,” offers Hershock, “It’s really a calling.” He says PHEF is proud to be able to help with the expansion of nursing education and acknowledges that their “friends at Villanova encourage us to keep going.”