Modesto, Calif.; Dec. 4 – HealthForce Partners, a leading healthcare sector partnership in California, is proud to announce a $200,000 scholarship fund, in collaboration with the City of Modesto, aimed at expanding access for local students to pursue master’s degrees in social work. This initiative is designed to strengthen the pipeline of skilled social workers committed to practicing in Modesto and addressing the region's growing need for mental health and social services.

The scholarships will support Modesto-based students pursuing advanced degrees in social work at University of the Pacific and Stanislaus State University, respectively, with a clear path to return and serve their community. This strategic investment will provide much-needed financial assistance, while helping to build a more robust social services workforce in Modesto.

"By investing in local students and future social workers, we are directly addressing the critical shortage of professionals needed to serve Modesto's diverse and growing population," said Paul Lanning, Executive Director of HealthForce Partners. "These new scholarship funds amplify our commitment to expanding behavioral health services in the region. We’re excited to partner with the City of Modesto and our regional universities to ensure more opportunities for Modesto residents to pursue careers in social work."

Sue Zwahlen, Mayor of Modesto, shared her support for the initiative adding, "Investing in social work education is vital to the future of our city. These scholarships will not only help local students pursue their dreams of becoming healthcare providers but also ensure that Modesto has the skilled professionals needed to provide essential services to our residents. We're proud to collaborate with HealthForce Partners, Stanislaus State, and University of the Pacific on this impactful initiative."

The $200,000 scholarship fund will be allocated across two social work programs, offering financial support to residents of the Modesto area pursuing master’s degrees in social work. Students will also benefit from expanded clinical placements to gain hands-on experience in local agencies, creating a pathway to licensure and a career serving the community. This investment aligns with the mission to keep local talent in Modesto, addressing urgent social work shortages in the region.

Representatives from both universities emphasized the significance of the partnership:

• Brad Profilio, Dean of the College of Education, Kinesiology, and Social Work at Stanislaus State, said, "This partnership is a tremendous opportunity for our students to gain essential training while having the opportunity to serve their community. We’re delighted to collaborate on this effort and increase access to social work education that will directly benefit Modesto."

• Nicoleta Bugnariu, Dean of Health Sciences at University of the Pacific, added, "We are proud to be part of this initiative that not only opens doors for students but strengthens the healthcare and social services infrastructure in Modesto. Together, through this partnership, with commitment and intentionally, we are creating lasting change for the region.”

About HealthForce Partners Northern San Joaquin Valley

HealthForce Partners brings together top executives and operational leaders from healthcare, education, and workforce development to craft innovative programs and systems change strategies that address staffing priorities of employers and expand career opportunities for community residents. The partnership focuses on the North San Joaquin Valley region, including the counties of San Joaquin, Stanislaus, and Merced, driving collaboration that creates long-term solutions to workforce challenges. To learn more, visit www.healthforcepartners.net.