Application Process

Follow These Steps to Become a Billi Odegaard Scholar

The Billi Odegaard Scholarship Fund helps ethnically diverse students in Oregon pursue nursing careers with full financial and mentorship support. The scholarship provides a full ride—covering tuition, housing, books, and fees—for students who complete the Clackamas Community College (CCC) Nursing Program and continue to earn their Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU).

Step 1: Review Your Eligibility

Before applying, make sure you meet the basic requirements:

  • Identify as part of an ethnically diverse group that is underrepresented in nursing.

  • Be an Oregon resident and eligible for in-state tuition.

  • Hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and have completed (or be finishing) CCC nursing prerequisites.

  • Show a strong commitment to community health, service, and equity.

Tip: Highlight experiences such as volunteering, caregiving, or work in community organizations—they strengthen your application.

Step 2: Submit Your Scholarship Application

Application Timeline: (Insert timeline graphic or dates here — e.g., January 1–March 31 application window)

Your application helps the Mentorship Board understand who you are and why you’re passionate about nursing. Applications typically open January 1 and close March 31.

Your submission must include:

  • A personal statement (500–750 words) describing your goals, experiences, and why diversity in nursing matters to you.

  • A financial statement outlining your need for support.

  • Two letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or supervisors.

  • Unofficial transcripts showing your GPA and prerequisite completion.

After review, selected applicants are invited to an interview with members of the Billi Odegaard Mentorship Board. Scholarship recipients are announced by May 15.

📎 Apply Here: Billi Odegaard Scholarship Application
📧 Submit materials or questions to: billiodegaardscholarship@ccc.edu

Step 3: Apply to Clackamas Community College (CCC)

To activate your scholarship, you must be accepted into the CCC Nursing Program. Apply through the CCC Nursing Admissions Office following their published deadlines.
If you’re selected as a Billi Odegaard Scholar, your award will begin once your CCC acceptance is confirmed.

Step 4: Complete Two Years at CCC

Spend your first two years at Clackamas Community College earning your Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) with:

  • Full financial coverage (tuition, housing, books, and fees).

  • Monthly mentorship from healthcare professionals.

  • Workshops and leadership retreats that build your confidence and career skills.

  • Opportunities to engage in community-based health projects.

These experiences prepare you for the transition to OHSU and future leadership roles in healthcare.

Step 5: Transfer to OHSU and Earn Your BSN

After completing your ADN at CCC, you’ll seamlessly continue into Oregon Health & Science University’s BSN program. The scholarship continues to cover all costs for your final two years, and your mentor will remain an active part of your professional journey.

During your time at OHSU, you’ll gain advanced clinical experience and join a network of nurses dedicated to equity and public service.

Step 6: Graduate and Do Incredible Things

After earning your Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), you’ll become part of the Billi Odegaard Alumni Network—a growing community of nurses dedicated to advancing health equity and improving care across Oregon.

As a Billi Odegaard Scholar, you’re not just receiving an education—you’re continuing a legacy of service, leadership, and compassion.