University of Phoenix Announces Partnership With March of Dimes Florida Chapter

ORLANDO, Fla., May 11 /PRNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix's Florida campuses continue their partnership with the March of Dimes Florida Chapter, which involves fundraising and volunteer efforts to support the nonprofit organization and its March for Babies events. Additionally, in an ongoing commitment to provide access to nursing education opportunities and ensure the future of quality healthcare in Florida, for the second year, University of Phoenix is offering a total of four full-tuition scholarships – one at each of the four Florida campuses – for students pursuing either a Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a Master of Science in Nursing.

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"Receiving the full-tuition scholarship is a prestigious honor and the opportunity of the lifetime," said Amalia Pardo, a 2009 scholarship recipient from Central Florida. "Words cannot describe what a blessing it is to be able to further one's education with a highly reputable university in today's competitive market and without the financial burden. I'm forever grateful to University of Phoenix and March of Dimes for opening new professional doors and giving me the edge I needed in my nursing career."

The March of Dimes Florida Chapter is currently accepting scholarship applications through June 18, 2010, and the scholarship recipients will be announced in Mid-July. For an application and/or more information on the nursing scholarship program offered in partnership with the March of Dimes Florida Chapter, log onto phoenix.edu/scholarships or marchofdimes.com/florida.

"My lifelong dream has always been to become a nurse educator, and the degree from University of Phoenix will help me get one step closer," said Keisha Dawkins, a 2009 scholarship recipient from North Florida. "Being a nurse is not just a job, it is my purpose, and giving back is what I was meant to do with my life."

"March of Dimes is proud of its partnership with University of Phoenix," says John Hadden, March of Dimes Florida Chapter chair. "The University's commitment to our organization and the health of babies is evident through its past support, its present multi-market sponsorship, and by offering scholarships in the March of Dimes name to future nurses."  

University of Phoenix Florida campuses have participated in the March for Babies events across the state for the past three years, and have raised more than $145,000 to benefit the babies in the state.

"Many of our staff members and students have benefited from the March of Dimes organization, and we are glad to support such a worthy cause," said Lynn Mulherin, University of Phoenix's southeast regional vice president.

About March of Dimes

The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.

About University of Phoenix – Florida

University of Phoenix established a ground presence in Florida more than a decade ago. Since the opening of the first campus in Orlando, the University has expanded to include 16 locations statewide including its four main Florida campuses and affiliated learning and resource centers. With a variety of degree programs, University of Phoenix – Florida currently serves approximately 23,000 students, including those who are enrolled in on-campus, online, and Axia College programs. The state's four campuses include Central Florida, North Florida, South Florida and West Florida.

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold.  As of February 28, 2010, 458,600 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.

SOURCE University of Phoenix