Adrian, MI – April 7, 2025 – Siena Heights University and Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services today announced a partnership designed to cultivate the next generation of nursing professionals. The collaboration will establish a comprehensive scholarship and job opportunity program, directly benefiting Siena Heights nursing students.
This initiative will provide Siena Heights nursing students with access to Pine Rest’s Nursing Student Academy, offering invaluable hands-on experience and specialized training in mental health care. The program aims to address the growing demand for skilled nurses, particularly in the mental health sector, by providing students with financial support and a clear pathway to employment upon graduation.
The Pine Rest Nursing Student Academy offers:
- Clinical Experience: Direct patient care experience within Pine Rest’s specialized mental health facilities.
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced nurses and mental health professionals.
- Educational Opportunities: Training in evidence-based practices and specialized mental health nursing skills.
- Financial Support: Scholarships of up to $40,000 to alleviate the financial burden of nursing education.
This collaboration underscores both institutions’ commitment to student success and community health.
“This partnership with Pine Rest is a transformative opportunity for our nursing students,” said Dr. Gina Rossetti, Provost and VP of Academic Affairs at Siena Heights University.
“By combining rigorous academic training with real-world experience and financial support, we are empowering our students to become compassionate and highly skilled nurses who will make a significant impact in the field of mental health.”
Dr. Gretchen Johnson, Pine Rest’s Chief Nurse Executive, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Siena Heights University to invest in the future of nursing. Our Nursing Student Academy provides a unique opportunity for students to gain specialized skills in mental health care, and we are committed to supporting their educational journey and providing them with fulfilling career opportunities at Pine Rest.”
For students, it’s not just about getting a job; it’s about making a real difference in people’s lives. The scholarship will significantly reduce financial stress, allowing them to focus on their studies and clinical training.
The scholarship and job opportunity program is open for students to apply now. Interested students are encouraged to contact the Siena Heights University Nursing Department for more information and learn about Pine Rest at https://www.pinerest.org/train-at-pine-rest/nursing-student-academy/.
About Siena Heights University:
Siena Heights University (SHU), a Catholic institution founded in 1919 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, serves a diverse student body of traditional and adult learners. Renowned for its leading athletics program and a commitment to the Dominican intellectual tradition, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, including top-ranked online programs through SHU Global. Headquartered in Adrian, Michigan, the University is a cornerstone of the community. For more information, visit sienaheights.edu.
About Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services:
Pine Rest, the single largest freestanding behavioral health provider in Michigan and the third largest in the country, has been the proven leader and preeminent behavioral health partner in West Michigan for decades. It offers a full continuum of services, including inpatient and partial hospitalization, psychiatric urgent care, residential and outpatient services, addiction treatment and recovery, extensive child and adolescent programs, senior care services, as well as specialized assessment and treatment clinics. In addition to the main campus in Grand Rapids, Pine Rest has 21 outpatient locations throughout West and Northern Michigan. With a multi-disciplinary team of over 800 world-class physicians, clinicians, advanced practice professionals, and clinical colleagues, Pine Rest has the most expertise and experience to serve Michigan’s behavioral health care needs. For more information, go to www.pinerest.org.
