Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island: Elevating Professional Development and Sponsorships at Providence College
In a remarkable gesture as 2024 drew to a close, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI) pledged an impressive $141,480 to Providence College. This substantial investment is set to create transformative summer internships for students in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences’ health policy & management program. Along with this, the funding will support discretionary resources to ensure the success of these interns, establish the prestigious Future Health Care Leader Award, and renew their sponsorships for the Friar 5K and other athletic endeavors at the College.
Health Policy & Management (HPM) stands as one of Providence College’s most sought-after areas of study, boasting over 200 dedicated majors. This burgeoning popularity mirrors a significant societal trend. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations are projected to surge by 16% by 2030, introducing approximately 2.6 million new jobs. The summer internships facilitated by BCBSRI are not just opportunities; they are gateways for exceptional Providence College HPM students to engage in transformative, hands-on experience that will shape the future of healthcare.
“We are proud to partner with Providence College to support the next generation of business and healthcare leaders. Our collaboration is aimed at advancing student skills by providing valuable internship experiences that broaden their professional knowledge and prepare them for post graduate opportunities. We value our partnership with Providence College and together we are committed to building a strong and skilled workforce that is ready to contribute meaningfully to both healthcare in Rhode Island and the larger world.” – Melissa Cummings, Executive Vice President & Chief Customer Officer
This partnership is not just about financial support; it is about shaping the future leaders in healthcare. The BCBSRI Future Health Care Leader Award, a cornerstone of this commitment, will honor a graduating senior who embodies the missions of both BCBSRI and Providence College. The award, which includes a $5,000 prize, will be presented at the College’s annual awards ceremony.
When asked to share what the partnership with BCBSRI means to the College, Founding Dean, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Dr. Kyle McInnis stated: “At Providence College’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences, we are dedicated to preparing the next generation of healthcare leaders. Our partnership with Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island is a remarkable opportunity to support and empower our students through the BCBSRI Future Healthcare Leaders Award and paid summer internships. These initiatives will provide invaluable hands-on experience, mentorship, and professional growth, helping our students make a meaningful impact in the healthcare field. We are thrilled to collaborate with BCBSRI in shaping the future of healthcare leadership.”
— Dr. Kyle McInnis, Dean, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Providence College
BCBSRI’s enduring collaboration also sees them continuing as the title sponsor for the annual Friar 5K race, a highlight of Homecoming weekend. Moreover, their partnership with Learfield will further enhance the College’s athletic programs, reinforcing their dedication to fostering a vibrant sports culture.
Since its inception in 1939 as the Hospital Service Corporation of Rhode Island, BCBSRI has remained steadfast in its mission to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare to Rhode Islanders. This latest partnership with Providence College is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the community’s well-being and the future of healthcare leadership.
