Abigail Cunningham’s path to nursing began long before she wore scrubs or stepped into a college classroom — it started with a spark ignited at 15 years old during the Explore RCoN camp at Research College of Nursing, a hands-on and immersive nursing experience supported by The Research Foundation. That spark has now grown into a full-blown passion, and thanks to the support of The Research Foundation, Abigail is one step closer to making her dream a reality.
Now, Abigail is scholarship recipient from The Research Foundation and a new student at Research College of Nursing. Reflecting on her path, she shares, “Explore RCoN showed me that nursing is my purpose.”
Explore RCoN energized Abigail to become a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) during high school. “My work as a CNA was incredibly eye-opening,” Abigail explains. “It gave me a deep respect for the care and commitment CNAs provide every single day.”
Each step Abigail has taken in her nursing career, she has identified opportunities to grow, help others. “Three goals I have are to choose growth over comfort, be the light in dark places, and be a voice for those who haven’t found their own yet,” she says. “Nursing school will challenge me, but I’m ready to grow.”
As she settles into Research College of Nursing, Abigail is filled with gratitude. “The scholarships I’ve received from The Research Foundation mean so much to me. It’s hard to put into words. They’ve made my career goals feel realistic. New possibilities are being discovered—possibilities that wouldn’t happen without this support.”
Abigail is keenly aware that her journey has been impacted by others who believed in her potential. “To donors considering giving to The Research Foundation, I want you to know: your gift doesn’t stop with a student. It ripples into the classroom, and eventually into the lives of patients we’re privileged to care for. That’s the power of your generosity.”
With a heart full of passion and a mind ready to grow, Abigail is excited to take her next steps. “I feel honored to have been given these experiences and opportunities. I’m so grateful to Research College of Nursing, Explore RCoN, and especially The Research Foundation for supporting students. You found 15-year-old Abigail and gave her a future in nursing.”
You can help more students like Abigail achieve their dreams. Visit thereseasrchfoundationkc.org/givetonursing to donate to nursing scholarships through The Research Foundation. Your support creates lasting impact—for students, for patients, and for the future of health care.
