Iowa Golf Outing Raises $148,000 for Healthcare Scholarships
On Thursday, Aug. 27, the Iowa Hospital Education and Research Foundation (IHERF) welcomed golfers representing nearly 30 hospitals and healthcare organizations to its 21st Annual Swinging for Scholars Golf Outing. In total, $148,000 dollars were raised to support scholarships for the next generation of Iowa's healthcare workforce.
The event brought together hospital leaders, healthcare professionals, business partners and supporters from across the state for a day of networking, friendly competition and philanthropy, all in support of the IHERF Healthcare Careers Scholarship Program.
"The success of Swinging for Scholars reflects the commitment Iowa's healthcare community has to investing in our future workforce," said Chris Mitchell, Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) President & CEO. "Every dollar raised helps create opportunities for students who aspire to serve their communities through careers in healthcare. We are grateful to every golfer, sponsor and volunteer whose generosity continues to make the scholarship program possible."
Proceeds from the outing directly support the IHERF Healthcare Careers Scholarship Program, which was established in 2005 to help address workforce shortages and encourage students to pursue careers in healthcare. Since its inception, the program has supported nearly 1,100 Iowa students pursuing higher education in healthcare fields through approximately $3.3 million in scholarships.
IHERF, a nonprofit subsidiary of IHA, is dedicated to strengthening Iowa's healthcare workforce by investing in the next generation of professionals. Through annual scholarships, IHERF opens doors for students pursuing careers in healthcare.
"Iowa hospitals depend on a strong, well-prepared workforce to meet the needs of their communities today, tomorrow and for years to come," said Cory Nelson, Sioux Center Health CEO and IHERF Board Chair. "These students represent the future of healthcare in Iowa. By supporting their education through this scholarship program, we are not only investing in their success but also inspiring the next generation of caregivers who will strengthen our hospitals and improve the health of communities across our state."
Scholarships are awarded annually to both high school seniors and college students enrolled or interested in healthcare-related fields of study. Applications for 2027 scholarships open November 1, 2026. For more information about IHERF, visit iherf.org.