PVAMU DNP student LaTonya Holman selected as 2024-2026 Jonas Scholar

HOUSTON (Aug. 1, 2024) - Jonas Nursing, a leading advocate for doctoral nursing education in the U.S., in partnership with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), has proudly named LaTonya Holman, RN, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) student at Prairie View A&M University's College of Nursing, as a Jonas Scholar for the 2024-2026 cohort. This prestigious program aims to enhance healthcare by increasing the number of PhD and DNP-prepared nurses who will educate the next generation of nursing leaders.

Holman joins an elite group of 63 of the nation's most promising doctoral nursing students, recognized for their dedication to teaching, academic excellence, and research skills. As a Jonas Scholar, Holman will benefit from financial support, mentorship, and a curriculum designed to provide the necessary learning experiences to successfully transition into roles as faculty, researchers, and leaders in academic nursing.

"I am truly honored and deeply grateful," said Holman. "It's an incredible privilege to be among such distinguished recipients, both present and past. I am eager to lead as a nurse leader and contribute to the nursing profession by helping future nurses achieve their goals."

"Prairie View A&M University College of Nursing is delighted to collaborate with AACN and the Jonas Foundation to support emerging nursing leaders in advancing nursing education," said Dr. Allyssa L. Harris, dean of the PVAMU College of Nursing. "Addressing the nurse faculty shortage is crucial to meeting society's healthcare needs, and the Jonas Foundation's support allows us to fulfill the financial needs of nurses committed to educating the next generation. This is a significant milestone for PVAMU CON, and we are thrilled that Ms. Holman has been selected. This honor underscores our tagline, 'Excellence Lives Here.'"

Holman joins a diverse group of doctoral nursing students with a wide range of research interests focused on some of the nation's most pressing challenges, including underserved populations, mental health, and veterans' health.

Actively involved in the Graduate Student Nurses Association and the Fort Bend County Chapter of the National Black Nurses Association, Holman's research will aim to improve the healthcare environment and patient care experience. She is expected to graduate in 2026.

-PVAMU-