Unlock Your Potential. Transform Your Future.

The Jacob Scholars Program at Wayne State University’s College of Nursing is designed to provide high-achieving nursing students with the resources, support and mentorship needed to excel academically, financially and professionally.

Through structured academic guidance, financial assistance and community engagement, this program prepares future nurses to thrive in their careers and make a meaningful impact in healthcare.

Become a Jacob Scholar

If you’re a dedicated, high-achieving nursing student looking for a comprehensive support system to help you excel, the Jacob Scholars Program is for you. Join a network of future nursing leaders and prepare to make a lasting impact in healthcare.

Program Overview

Academic Preparedness

Success in nursing starts with a strong foundation. The Jacob Scholars Program ensures students are equipped for academic excellence through:

• Pre-Immersion Program – A structured introduction to the nursing curriculum.
• Intrusive Academic Advising – Personalized guidance to keep students on track.
• Faculty & Peer Mentorship – Ongoing support from experienced professionals and fellow students.
• Mandatory Group Study & Supplemental Instruction – Collaborative learning to reinforce key nursing concepts.
• NCLEX Preparation Tools – Access to essential resources for licensure exam success.

Financial Resources & Stability

We believe financial barriers should never stand in the way of a nursing education. Scholars receive:

• $2,000 Annual Stipend – Helping ease financial burdens.
• Completion Package – Includes stethoscope, uniforms, lab coat, jacket and backpack to set students up for clinical success.

Access to Role Models & Mentorship

Guidance from experienced nursing professionals is key to career growth. The program provides:

• Dedicated Faculty Mentor – Monthly meetings for career and academic support.
• Mentorship Program – Connection with seasoned nursing professionals for ongoing guidance.

Campus & Community Engagement

Nursing is about more than academics—it's about making a difference. Scholars engage in:

• Social Activities – Building connections with fellow students.
• Campus Engagement – Involvement in university organizations and leadership opportunities.
• Volunteer Opportunities – Giving back to the community through service initiatives.

Program requirements

• In collaboration with AHEC, Scholars attend Pre-Immersion Week (occurs one week prior to classes beginning in August)
• Monthly meetings with academic advisor
• Participate in 2 hours of facilitated group study each week and individual tutoring twice per month
• Participate in peer mentoring program
• Attend at least 1 community outing per semester (bowling, picnic, volunteering).
• Attend one monthly WSU workshop/event.
• Must maintain the minimum GPA as outlined in the CON handbook and be in academic good standing with CON (75% or higher in each NUR course).
• Must complete all surveys requested by the College of Nursing

To be considered for the Jacob Scholars Program students must first be admitted to the College of Nursing Direct Admit pathway.

Program Success

• During the Fall 2023 semester, 23 (100%) upperclassmen (juniors and seniors) supported by the Jacob Scholars Program continued to progress in the College of Nursing.
• By May 2024, 11 of the students who graduate from the program entered the nursing workforce.
• Of the Jacob Scholars graduates, 100% have passed the NCLEX.
• Junior and Senior students have completed over 445 peer-facilitated study group hours.

Program Funding

Jaime and Denise are aware of the impact of inequities in resources, experiences and opportunities on the ability of all children to thrive. Awareness of these profound inequities led them to reach out and learn from transformational social impact organizations.

These experiences led them to the Jamie and Denise Jacob Family Foundation (JDJ Family Foundation), which has awarded over $3.4 million in grant funding to more than 10 organizations across Detroit and Metro Detroit. Their areas of focus—Childhood Enrichment, College Success and Reproductive Health—reflect their belief in the power of education, opportunity and access to critical resources. 

Their early philanthropic ventures included scholarships at the University of Michigan for nursing students, with a focus on graduates of Detroit high schools and have continued through support of human service organizations and Wayne State University.  

Questions?

If you have questions about the College of Nursing's Jacob Scholars Program, please contact Kristina Aaron, PhD at kaaron@wayne.edu or 313-577-3341.