Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) will award 561 Mat-Su residents more than $2.9 million to pursue higher education in the fields of health and human services. MSHF’s academic scholarships aim to grow the Valley’s healthcare workforce while reducing students’ financial burden for education. Individual awards range from $2,000 to $9,000 and fund attendance at both in- and out-of-state universities.

“The Mat-Su is experiencing exponential growth. With more residents, including an increasing aging population, our healthcare workforce needs to keep pace,” said Vandana Ingle, Chief Community Impact Officer at MSHF. “These scholarships help Mat-Su residents gain the education and expertise they need to best care for people, and help solidify a pathway into long-term, meaningful work.”

Started in 2008, the Foundation’s scholarship program has consistently adapted to the ever-growing population of the Mat-Su. This year marks the highest number of applicants and the highest amount of funds awarded. The needs-based program is designed to aid students who might not otherwise have access to higher education opportunities.

“The passion and perseverance of our scholarship recipients is truly inspiring,” said Adelina Rodriguez, MSHF’s Scholarship Program Officer. “These career fields are vital to the well-being of our communities, and we are honored to play a role in supporting student growth and the development of Mat-Su’s workforce.”

Scholarship recipients reflect a wide range of educational goals and backgrounds. While some are just starting their academic journeys as incoming college freshmen, others are active in their professional fields. Of the 561 recipients, 51% are renewing their scholarships to continue their education in health and human services.

An unwavering dedication to Alaska’s future is clear: 62% of this year’s awardees, over $1.8 million in scholarships, will attend in-state institutions. Every dollar MSHF returns to Mat-Su and Alaska has significant direct and indirect economic benefits, including job creation and support for local businesses, government, and families.

The health and human services fields are filled with strong employment opportunities and career pathways, provide purposeful work for residents, and foster economic mobility. Scholarship recipients span across the entire borough, with career pathways ranging from nursing, behavioral health, and diagnostic services to early childhood education, public health, and special education.

In addition to academic scholarships, applications for vocational, professional development, and training scholarships are open year-round. For more information about the MSHF scholarship program, visit healthymatsu.org/how-we-fund/scholarships.