Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship
Offered by American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN)
About This Scholarship
The Deborah E. Trautman Future Nurse Leader Scholarship, named for the longtime president and CEO of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, supports graduate nursing students who have shown a commitment to leadership in academic nursing. Two recipients are selected each year, and the award is bigger than the headline number suggests: $3,500 goes directly to the student for educational expenses, and up to $1,500 more covers travel to a three-day leadership experience with AACN.
That leadership component is the heart of the program. Winners commit to attending an in-person AACN leadership event, set three to four personal leadership goals, and work with a faculty advisor along the way. For a master's or doctoral nursing student who wants a career in nursing education, policy, or administration, the networking may be worth as much as the check.
The application window runs from August 31 to October 30. Applicants must attend an AACN member school that participates in NursingCAS and join AACN's Graduate Nursing Student Academy, which is free. The application itself is substantial — an essay, a CV, two recommendation letters including one from the dean or director, and a signed commitment statement — so this is a scholarship for students who are genuinely interested in the leadership track, not a quick-entry award.
Eligibility
- Enrolled in a master's or doctoral nursing program at an AACN member school affiliated with NursingCAS
- Member of AACN's Graduate Nursing Student Academy (free to join)
- Currently enrolled and in good academic standing
- Demonstrated high academic achievement and commitment to academic nursing
- Able to attend the three-day in-person leadership component
How To Apply
- Join AACN's Graduate Nursing Student Academy for free if you are not already a member
- Complete the online application through the Apply link on the scholarship page, including your faculty advisor's contact information
- Write an essay of 500 words or fewer and list 3-4 goals for the leadership experience
- Upload your CV or resume and a signed commitment statement for the leadership event
- Arrange two recommendation letters, one from your dean or program director, before the October 30 close
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the $5,000 split?
The award pays $3,500 directly to the student for educational expenses, and up to $1,500 more covers conference travel for the required three-day leadership experience with AACN.
Do I have to be an AACN member?
You must attend an AACN member school that participates in NursingCAS and join AACN's Graduate Nursing Student Academy, which is free for students at member schools.
Can undergraduate nursing students apply?
No. The Trautman Scholarship is limited to students currently enrolled in master's or doctoral nursing programs.