HENDERSON– WGU Tennessee – a nonprofit, online university – surprised Chester County resident Katheryn Overton with a $10,000 scholarship as part of the Tenn-K Scholarship campaign, which will cover up to 75 percent of her degree program.

Overton learned that she had been awarded the Tenn-K Scholarship on a Zoom call with Kim Estep, vice president, Southeast Region, Western Governors University (WGU).

“I’m inspired by adults who have decided to pursue a degree in a field that betters the community,” Estep said. “Katheryn is dedicated to growing in her knowledge and skills as a nurse, and we’re honored to award her a Tenn-K Scholarship help her achieve those goals.”

Overton was working in surgical support and knew that she wanted to be more hands-on, working with patients daily. As she was searching for job opportunities in her area, Overton found that many entry-level positions require a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree instead of an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) just to get your foot in the door. She decided to take the leap and pursue her bachelor’s degree in nursing – R.N. to BSN with hopes of becoming a traveling nurse or a case manager.

“I’m so happy that I found WGU Tennessee and am able to earn a degree while working,” Overton said. “I always tell my daughter to follow her dreams, no matter how far away they might seem. By earning this scholarship, I’ll be able to pursue my own professional dreams by earning a degree.”

Overton is one of up to 10 Tennesseans who will earn WGU Tennessee’s 2021 Tenn-K Scholarship. The scholarship – which covers roughly two-thirds of WGU Tennessee’s already-low tuition of around $3,500 per term for most programs – is awarded based on students’ academic records, readiness for online study, and demonstrated financial need.

Those interested in learning more may click here. The deadline to apply is April 30, 2021.