Laci Sears, a senior at the WVU School of Nursing, was the first recipient of the Debra L. Harr Nursing Scholarship, which made a tremendous impact during her junior year of nursing school.
For many weeks, Sears worried about being able to afford the upcoming fall semester, but her worries were resolved when she was offered the scholarship.
“It felt like an answered prayer,” Sears said.
Sears was picking up six 16-hour shifts a week to save up money for the semester, trying to account for $2,000 she needed for school plus and living expenses. She was working hard so she could focus on her studies during the semester.
The $2,000 Debra L. Harr Nursing Scholarship she received covered the remainder of her tuition and allowed her to save her hard-earned money for living expenses and student loans.
“I cannot express how grateful I was to be chosen for this scholarship,” said Sears, who expects to graduate in December 2026. “When I graduate from WVU’s School of Nursing, I plan to work as a pediatric oncology nurse and then go back for my NP. I feel very blessed to go to a school that invests in their students' futures.”
Sears, the oldest of three siblings, is a lifelong resident of Hinton in southern West Virginia. She works as a Clinical Associate at Ruby Memorial Hospital, and she enjoys volunteering, spending time with family and friends in her free time.
Her aunt, Dr. Kimberly Thomas, has been one of the biggest role models in her life. While she once dreamed of becoming a doctor, it was Dr. Thomas who entered her life when she was 7, and ever since, she knew she wanted to be just like her. Dr. Thomas encouraged her to explore nursing school and introduced her to the nurse practitioner route, a path she immediately fell in love with. Her guidance has been pivotal in shaping her career aspirations, and her impact continues to inspire and motivate her every day.
Her passion for nursing, and pediatric oncology, was sparked by her brother’s early health challenges and the experiences of children in her community who fought leukemia. The compassion and care shown by healthcare workers who made hospital visits less frightening had a lasting impact on her. She knew she wanted to be one of those people who could help ease the anxiety of others during difficult times.
Her experience with the WVU School of Nursing has been fulfilling, both personally and academically. She was also selected as one of the school’s ambassadors. She believes she has grown significantly, and the opportunity to work alongside others who share her passion has only deepened her commitment to pursuing a career where she can make a real difference.
“From the first orientation to the conclusion of my third year, the WVU School of Nursing has lived up to that expectation,” Sears said. “They have challenged me to be the best that I can possibly be, while opening up networking and job opportunities that I would have never had otherwise.”
Though Sears loves WVU and receiving her education, like many college students, she has experienced many times of worry due to the financial aspect of attending university. However, this scholarship has provided her with the financial flexibility to focus more on her studies. She comes from a family that earns too much for most grants and aid, but not enough to fully cover college expenses. Her parents have instilled in her a strong work ethic and the belief that education opens doors to new opportunities. She is incredibly grateful for the support, which has made a significant difference in her ability to pursue her academic goals.
“I want to thank the donors for choosing to invest in my dreams and future, and promise them that their investment will be returned in the quality of work I produce as a student, and ultimately the care I give to my patients once I become a graduate of the WVU School of Nursing,” Sears said.
If you are interested in making a donation to support student scholarships at the WVU School of Nursing, please contact Dr. Kimberly Colebank, Development Director, at kcolebank@wvuf.org or 304-554-0237. Donations are awarded via the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.