Independence Blue Cross Foundation

The newest episode in our Making Change Happen docuseries focuses on the IBX Foundation Service Scholars Program, which provides educational pathways for military veterans pursuing careers in nursing. Marie Ann Marino, EdD, RN, FAAN, Dean of Jefferson College of Nursing, explains how this program expands career opportunities for veterans like Brianna Senatore and Ana Brunal through scholarships, financial aid, career development, and one-on-one mentoring, all designed to complement the benefits offered through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Yellow Ribbon Program. Also featured in this episode is Ret. Rear Admiral Karen Flaherty-Oxler, MSN, RN. As the Medical Center Director of the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center in Philadelphia, she advocates for nursing schools across the country to look to this program both as a way to expand civilian career options for veterans and improve the health of communities.

This month, we are recognizing our veterans. On Veterans Day, we hosted a reception for the inaugural cohort of veterans participating in the IBX Foundation Service Scholars Program, which supports veterans pursuing nursing careers. Representatives from participating nursing programs at Community College of Philadelphia, Gwynedd Mercy University, Montgomery County Community College, Thomas Jefferson University, and Villanova University were in attendance, alongside leaders in government, community, and education. With a focus on "Serving Country and Community," guest speakers the Honorable Patrick J. Murphy, Chairman of the White House Task Force Movement, and Pennsylvania State Senator of the 12th Senatorial District, the Honorable Maria Collett, highlighted how this program helps veterans explore career pathways that align with core military values of purpose, mission, and service. Heather Major, Executive Director of the IBX Foundation, offered special acknowledgment of the veteran students currently enrolled in the program. We'd like to extend a special acknowledgement to American Corporate Partners (ACP), whose mentorship and career development opportunities have been invaluable to the Service Scholars.

Join us as we honor the brave individuals whose military service has helped protect our country and safeguard our freedoms. We thank you for your service. #VeteransDay

The IBX Foundation is committed to Making Change Happen. And today, you have an important role in determining the change you want to see. Voter turnout soars during presidential elections, but participation in off-cycle local elections tends to be light, even though these elections have great impacts on communities. Make a plan to vote today, but don’t wait another four years to make your voice heard. #ElectionDay A nonpartisan interactive voter guide is available at https://lnkd.in/eVarmPme.

IBX Foundation team members laced up their sneakers along with thousands of community members in support of the Philadelphia Heart Walk. ? This annual event helps the American Heart Association support research, training, and education to improve the health and quality of life for people with heart disease.?#PhillyHeartWalk

Every voice matters, including yours! ?? Support the development of Pennsylvania’s maternal health strategic plan by completing the “Maternal Health in Pennsylvania: Your Voice Matters!” survey. Survey responses help inform Pennsylvania’s maternal health strategic plan aimed at improving maternal health outcomes across the state. The survey collects information about what individuals experience and their needs before, during, and after a pregnancy, or when receiving maternal health care in Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services , the PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, and the Pennsylvania Insurance Department are seeking feedback from Pennsylvanians before the survey closes on November 4.? #maternalhealth #pennsylvania

Congratulations to the Independence Blue Cross Foundation on bringing together an impressive group of inspiring speakers to explore the future of the health care workforce, which is a national imperative, at its recent “Catalyzing Change” event. The urgency to solve the future health care workforce is reinforced by national trends including the increase in the aging population and a projected shortage of nurses, doctors, and other health professionals to care for all of us. That’s why we must sustain the progress made through successful workforce and equity initiatives to grow and diversify the health care workforce — and improve health care access, delivery, and outcomes. #HealthCare #HealthEquity #HealthProfessionals

We are proud to support Harcum College's peer support program for students in #recovery. This initiative aims to foster an inclusive environment for students who identify as being in recovery?by providing a safe space and essential resources to support their ongoing success and well-being during their recovery journey. ?? ? ?? Discover IBX Foundation's areas of impact: https://lnkd.in/eZFp_Pzx

Last week, local and national leaders at the intersection of business, healthcare, government, and education met in Philadelphia for “Catalyzing Change,” an IBX Foundation Health Equity and Health Workforce Event.?? ? Internationally-renowned physicians, published authors, esteemed community change-makers, and C-suite leadership from some of the region’s most prestigious healthcare providers took the stage to discuss the future of the health workforce and innovative strategies and solutions that will increase opportunity and advance health equity for all.? ? We thank our sponsors, speakers, moderators, and attendees. Together, we are making meaningful advances toward our shared goal of creating a more equitable health care system for all.

Thank you MONTCO.Today for featuring the IBX Foundation's work within our Service Scholars Program. We have and continue our commitment to diversifying and improving educational opportunities for veterans entering the nursing field. ?? Learn more about this initiative visit: https://lnkd.in/ey5hgee4