SPARK Program

Hammond-Henry Hospital has introduced a new educational support initiative designed to help future healthcare professionals graduate without student debt while securing guaranteed employment. The program, known as SPARK - Supporting Professionals through Accountability, Resources, and Knowledge - offers full tuition assistance for qualified students, paid clinical hours, and a four-year employment commitment with the hospital upon graduation.

Erica Huffer, RN, Clinical Educator at Hammond-Henry Hospital, said the program was created to both strengthen the local healthcare workforce and support students pursuing demanding clinical careers.

“We want to go beyond traditional scholarships,” Huffer said. “SPARK helps students build skills, gain experience inside our organization, and begin their careers without financial burden.”

Students accepted into SPARK are eligible for:

  • Full tuition coverage, including books and fees
  • Guaranteed employment for at least four years following graduation
  • Completion of clinical hours onsite at Hammond-Henry Hospital
  • Eligibility even for students already enrolled in a healthcare program

Funding for the program is provided through the Hammond-Henry Hospital Foundation.

The program is open to students pursuing careers as:

  • Registered Nurses (RN)
  • Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT)
  • Medical Laboratory Scientists (MLS)
  • Certified Athletic Trainers

Applicants must be at least 18, demonstrate alignment with the hospital’s mission to improve community health, submit a personal letter of intent, and provide two recent letters of recommendation from employers, teachers, or other approved references. Students must apply two months prior to the start of coursework. Once accepted, participants are hired into a hospital role and are required to:

  • Work at least 24 hours per month
  • Maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA
  • Submit updated academic documentation each term
  • Earn licensure or certification within six months of graduation

During their final academic year, students transition into their degree-related department for supervised, hands-on training at Hammond-Henry Hospital. Following graduation and obtaining licensure, SPARK participants commit to four years of full-time employment within a hospital-selected department.

“It’s truly a wonderful program to get the degree you desire and complete school with no debt while also giving something back to the community,” Huffer added. For more information or to apply, contact Huffer at 309.944.9166 or ericahuffer@hammondhenry.com. This is an ongoing program, allowing applicants throughout the entire year.

Through this program, participants benefit from:

  • Full Tuition Coverage: Pursue your nursing education with no financial barriers.

  • Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from an experienced mentor who checks in regularly.

  • Hands-On Experience: Gain real-world experience through our internship program, working alongside our expert healthcare team.

  • Guaranteed Employment: Upon successful completion of your nursing program, you'll enter a three-year employment contract with Hammond-Henry, ensuring long-term career growth.

If you're ready to take the next step in your healthcare career, we invite you to join the many nurses who have advanced their careers through this program. For more information, contact Erica Huffer in the Education Department.

Join us in shaping a skilled, compassionate nursing team that is dedicated to delivering exceptional care to our community.

If you're interested in learning more about the SPARK Program, please reach out to Erica Huffer, Clinical Educator, at 309.944.9166 or ericahuffer@hammondhenry.com.