Des Moines, Iowa, October 1, 2019 – Mercy Health Sciences University has been awarded the fifth largest gift in the institution’s history, establishing the Mains Endowed Scholarship Fund.
The $240,500 estate gift was given by the late Suzanne Mains, a graduate and eventual director of Mercy School of Nursing, which later became part of Mercy Health Sciences University. Suzanne spent the majority of her career at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center, serving there for 40 years.
Her wish was to assist future nursing students at Mercy Health Sciences University through annual distribution of two scholarships. The first scholarship will reward a nursing student with a record of academic achievement at either the high school or college level and the second scholarship will assist a nursing student with demonstrated financial need, as determined by the College.
“Suzanne exemplified the Mercy Health Sciences University values of helping all in our community succeed academically, even those without the means to do so. We thank Suzanne and her family for this generous gift that will uphold her legacy and provide meaningful scholarship in perpetuity,” said Mercy Health Sciences University President.
“Suzanne’s life’s work was rooted in serving others. Through her generosity, she is able to carry on her legacy through these scholarships. We are grateful to her and her family for the many lives she will impact through her philanthropy,” said Shannon Cofield, President of MercyOne Des Moines Foundation.
About Mercy Health Sciences University
Mercy Health Sciences University is the only private Catholic college in central Iowa and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Located in downtown Des Moines, Mercy Health Sciences University prepares graduates for service and leadership in the healthcare community with a wide range of bachelor, associate, and certificate programs. Mercy Health Sciences University’s liberal arts and sciences education develops compassionate caregivers and leaders. Visit www.mchs.edu or call (515) 643-3180 to learn more.
About MercyOne Des Moines Foundation
MercyOne Des Moines Foundation secures vital funding that ensures equal access, clinical excellence and high-quality care for all in Greater Des Moines. Learn more at MercyOne.org/desmoinesfoundation.
