Jamie Stevenson has a longstanding connection to Carle Health Greater Peoria, where his family’s legacy of service spans generations. His father served as a longtime Board member and his mother founded the flower shop at Carle Health Methodist Hospital - a service that continues to grow through her innovation and passion. In honor of his parents' commitment, Jamie established the Bob and Kay Stevenson Methodist College scholarship to support students pursuing careers in healthcare.
Q: What inspires you to support nursing education through your giving?
A: Nurses are the most vital part of the hospital engine and the single largest block of employees in the hospital. Often the forgotten part of the healing process, they are there when you need them.
Q: Why do you believe philanthropy plays a key role in shaping future nurses?
A: Our student demographic is stunning. Largely folks trying to improve their lives at a later stage than we would typically think of as “students,” many have other jobs and/or children. Philanthropy gives them a chance at a fresh start in a needed profession.
Q: What impact do you hope your support will have on students and the profession?
A: When assisting financially, my hope is that it leads to a generational change for that person and their family.
Q: What would you say to others considering supporting nursing education?
A: Your good fortune allows you to change a family’s trajectory. Pay it forward - the dividends are forever.
Follow along throughout Nurses’ Week for more inspiring Q&A spotlights featuring the students, faculty, staff and supporters who make Methodist College and Carle Health exceptional.