Stockton, Calif.; May 5, 2025 – HealthForce Partners, a leading healthcare sector partnership driving workforce development in multiple regions across the state, is proud to announce $575,000 in newly awarded scholarships for San Joaquin County residents pursuing healthcare careers at two key university partners: University of the Pacific and California State University, Stanislaus.

This latest round of funding reflects HealthForce Partners' continued investments in building a skilled and diverse healthcare workforce through innovative partnerships and strategic scholarships that support both economic mobility and improved access to care.

The scholarships are projected to help more than 110 students across multiple disciplines, including:

• Students in Master of Social Work (MSW), Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT), and Master of Counseling Psychology (MPCC) programs at University of the Pacific

• Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students at California State University, Stanislaus

• Graduate students in MSW, MPCC, and Master of Science in Psychology programs at Stanislaus State

• Students enrolled in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Physician Assistant (PA), and Physical Therapy (PT) programs at University of the Pacific

"These scholarships will yield returns for generations because the recipients aren't just future healthcare professionals, they're community members who understand local needs and will practice right here where their skills are most needed,” said Dr. Paul Lanning, Executive Director of HealthForce Partners. “By removing financial barriers to these critical professions, we're building a healthcare ecosystem that truly reflects and responds to the unique challenges and strengths of our region.”

Dr. Nicoleta Bugnariu, University of the Pacific, School of Health Sciences Dean added, “These scholarships go beyond easing financial burdens. They transform lives and open doors to meaningful, rewarding careers for students who are eager to serve their communities but may not otherwise have the resources to pursue their education. We’re proud and committed to work alongside HealthForce Partners towards a shared vision of a healthier community with increased access to care for all.” 

Dr. Brad Porfilio, California State University, Stanislaus Dean, College of Education, Kinesiology & Social Work added, "Scholarships like these make a real difference for our students. They ease financial pressures, open career paths, and allow future healthcare providers to stay focused on the work their communities urgently need. HealthForce Partners is helping build a sustainable pipeline of professionals who understand and are committed to meeting our region’s unique healthcare needs." 

This announcement builds on HealthForce Partners’ continued initiatives to expand healthcare career access across the Northern San Joaquin Valley region, including a $500,000 investment in growing the behavioral health workforce  in collaboration with the City of Modesto, a multi-faceted $250,000 allied health workforce development effort in San Joaquin County in partnership with San Joaquin County WorkNet, and a $5.2 million investment by the San Joaquin County Board of Supervisors to stabilize and grow the behavioral health workforce in San Joaquin County. All these initiatives include targeted scholarships, training programs, and hands-on learning opportunities.

About HealthForce Partners

HealthForce Partners creates sustainable solutions that drive economic mobility, expand career pathways, and strengthen the healthcare sector. Through innovative partnerships and workforce solutions, we catalyze the growth of a skilled and diverse healthcare workforce. Originally focused on the Northern San Joaquin Valley, HealthForce Partners now supports communities across California. Learn more at www.healthforcepartners.net