A new group of students in The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) School of Nursing is making history as the inaugural recipients of the ISLAND Promise — Integrating Student Living to Advance Nursing Development — a scholarship and workforce development initiative designed to remove financial barriers while strengthening the future nursing workforce.
The students recently moved into housing on Galveston Island provided through the program and have begun their Bachelor of Science in nursing (BSN) studies. Supported by a $4 million gift from the Sealy & Smith Foundation, the ISLAND Promise provides full tuition support, subsidized housing, living support, and a direct pathway to nursing careers at UTMB Health.
The first group of scholars marks the beginning of a long-term initiative that will continue to welcome new students each fall, spring, and summer semester. Students admitted to the traditional BSN program will be invited to apply for consideration.
Removing barriers to nursing education
The ISLAND Promise was created to address two pressing challenges facing nursing education and healthcare systems nationwide: the rising cost of earning a nursing degree and the growing demand for nurses.
By combining financial support, housing assistance, and career development opportunities, the program allows students to focus on their academic and clinical training without many of the financial and personal pressures that can make completing a nursing degree more difficult.
“I think this is just such a blessing,” said scholar Kristi Barnes. “We can fully focus on school and how we can be the best students we can be without worrying about all that extra stuff that adds stress.”
For Cindy Ni, the program’s financial support has eased a significant burden on her family.
“I know my parents would be the ones to pay for my tuition. Now that’s no longer a burden on their back,” Ni said.
Building community through residential living
In addition to tuition support, participants live in residential apartments adjacent to campus, creating a built-in community while providing convenient access to classes and clinical training.
For scholars who relocated to Galveston to attend UTMB, living within walking distance of campus also helps reduce commuting and transportation expenses. The housing component offers more than convenience. It creates opportunities for students to support one another through the demands of nursing school while building connections within the Galveston community.
“We’ve really gotten to know each other, and that has provided a level of comfort we wouldn’t have had if we were just at our houses with our own families,” said scholar Raven O'Neil. “If I have a question, I can just walk outside of my room and knock on one of their doors.”
Creating a pathway from education to employment
The ISLAND Promise supports students from enrollment through employment. After graduation and successful completion of licensure requirements, participants will be prioritized for employment opportunities in designated high-need clinical areas across UTMB Health.
“This is one of the most unique opportunities I’ve ever seen,” said Deborah Klesel, PhD, MSN, RN, an assistant professor and ISLAND Promise track coordinator. “It’s situated in a community setting, which creates a synergy, not only of belonging, but of excelling.”
The program represents a significant investment in both nursing education and the future healthcare workforce. As additional students join the program each semester, the ISLAND Promise is expected to create a steady pipeline of nurses prepared to serve patients throughout the region while helping address critical workforce needs across UTMB Health.
For scholars like Erica Ikaria, who has always wanted a career in healthcare, the program is helping turn that goal into reality.
By combining financial support, residential resources, and a clear career pathway to employment, the ISLAND Promise is expanding access to nursing education while preparing the next generation of nurses to care for the communities they will serve.
The experience is especially meaningful for scholar Sydney Sunn because of her family’s longstanding connection to Galveston. Her ancestors were among those who died in the 1900 Storm, and she spent much of her childhood visiting a family bay house on the island.
“I've been coming here for so long. This is a unique opportunity to work and give back to this community,” Sunn said.