Bethune-Cookman University Secures Nearly $5.2 Million in First-Ever Federal Nursing Awards

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (Oct. 21, 2026) – Bethune-Cookman University’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences has received $5.2 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). The grants mark the first time B-CU has received funding from the federal agency.

The awards will support two initiatives:

• Wildcat Nursing Student Success Project - $2,190,703 – This program creates a pathway from high school through completion of a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.
• Project RISE-RN - $2,978,466 – RISE RN (Recruiting, Inspiring, Supporting and Educating the Registered Nurse) provides working healthcare professionals with another route for continued learning.

“These awards represent an important investment in our students and the future of healthcare across the region,” said Dr. Albert D. Mosley, B-CU president. “By investing in students at different stages of their education and careers, we can help address critical healthcare needs, particularly in rural and medically underserved communities.”

The federal funds build on B-CU’s nationally recognized nursing program – which ranks second among HBCUs by Nurse.org. For more than two years, 100% of B-CU nursing graduates have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) on their first attempt.

Separately, a $250,000 appropriation from the State of Florida will help launch B-CU’s new dual enrollment nursing program. High school students will be able to earn nursing credits before graduation and begin preparing for careers in healthcare.

“Our students are the future of nursing,” said Dr. Beverly Bonaparte, Dean of B-CU’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences. “From students beginning their nursing education in high school to working professionals pursuing advancement, these awards will help us give them the resources, guidance and educational opportunities they need to succeed.”

For more information about Bethune-Cookman and its academic programs, visit www.Cookman.edu.

 

About Bethune-Cookman University

Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) is a private, historically Black university in Daytona Beach, Florida, affiliated with the United Methodist Church and a member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). The first and only HBCU founded by a Black woman, B-CU advances a legacy of educational access and service, preparing students to contribute to their communities and beyond. Learn more at www.cookman.edu.