ALPS Scholarship

What is ALPS?

The Association of Veteran’s Affairs Nurse Anesthetists (AVANA), Board of Directors and Scholarship Committee have created a new leadership development opportunity for Student Nurse Anesthetists (SRNAs), the AVANA Leadership Project for SRNAs (ALPS). This program was started in fiscal year 2013/2014.

AVANA is seeking to support SRNA education and the development of leadership skills by encouraging SRNAs to become actively involved in educational, advocacy, and leadership activities. AVANA believes that this will result in a stronger and more engaged group of future CRNAs. This project promises to be a very enriching educational experience and career development opportunity for the two selected SRNAs.

What will the students who are selected receive?

AVANA ALPS Program will sponsor two SRNA applicants to attend the following meeting:

AANA Mid-Year Assembly, Washington DC - April 2021
Airfare, two night’s hotel accommodations, and conference student registration fees will be sponsored1. The SRNA will meet with the AVANA members who attend AANA Mid-Year Assembly and will work with one board member mentor. The student will join board members to visit the House and Senate Committees on Veterans Affairs. The SRNA will also enjoy a sponsored dinner hosted by their assigned mentor and AVANA board members23.

What do I submit, when do I submit it, and when will I find out?

The require application materials include:

  • Curriculum Vitae (include projected graduation date)
  • Letter of Intent: (please answer the following)
    • Why is leadership important in your career as a CRNA?
    • How have you been involved in a leadership role in your career?
    • How does participation in a professional organization make CRNAs stronger as individuals and as a group?
    • What are your plans for the future?
  • Current Transcript from Enrolled SRNA Program
  • One Letter of Recommendation from Program Director, Clinical or Didactic faculty or a CRNA in a leadership role
Click Here to Submit Your Application

Applications are due no later than December 16th, 2020

Applicants will be notified by January 29th, 2021

For questions, please contact Melanie Clemens, DNP, CRNA at [email protected].

1Sponsorship received by post-meeting reimbursement. Maximum reimbursement allotments apply.
2If the selected SRNA is unable to attend the planned meeting, the SRNA forfeits reimbursement for any costs incurred. Exceptions may apply in unique situations.
3If the AANA Mid-Year Assembly is not held due to the on-going pandemic, SRNAs selected will have the opportunity to attend the AVANA Annual Meeting as an alternative.