Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES)
Healthcare with Heart
Medicine begins with human connection.
At Le Moyne College, we prepare healthcare professionals who are not only skilled clinicians, but compassionate listeners, thoughtful advocates, and trusted members of their communities. Because great healthcare requires both excellence and empathy.
What is HOPES?
The Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES) program strengthens the regional healthcare workforce by supporting students pursuing graduate-level health professions education — with particular focus on communities that have been historically underserved.
Advanced healthcare training can present real challenges. HOPES helps students navigate and overcome barriers such as:
- Financial pressures
- Academic preparation gaps
- Cultural transitions
- Logistical complexities
- Transportation and healthcare
By addressing these realities directly, HOPES empowers students to persist, graduate, and enter professional practice ready to serve where they are needed most.
The HOPES Scholarship gave me the opportunity to breathe. I can take a bit of time off of work to focus on academic performance and take care of my mental health and prevent early career burnout.
Meeting Community Needs — Together
HOPES reflects our commitment to addressing pressing healthcare needs in our region, as outlined in our strategic plan, Tomorrow, Together.
Through grounded support, intentional mentorship, and a mission-centered approach to education, we are building a stronger healthcare workforce, one student at a time.
About HOPES
The Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES) is a grant through the NYS Department of Health, assists students pursuing careers in healthcare by offering wrap-around services and support in order to address the critical workforce shortages across the healthcare sector.
The grant will support graduate students in the Purcell School for Professional Studies enrolled in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and PA Studies
The Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES) is a grant through the NYS Department of Health, assists students pursuing careers in healthcare by offering wrap-around services and support in order to address the critical workforce shortages across the healthcare sector.
The grant will support graduate students in the Purcell School for Professional Studies enrolled in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Nursing, Occupational Therapy, and PA Studies
The Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES) Scholarship of $10,000.00 is designed to support graduate healthcare students in the completion of their studies. The intent is to help reduce barriers so students can remain focused on academic and professional success.
Awardees will participate in programming designed to support the transition into their professional program, support on their academic journey and programming to support transition to practice.
The Healthcare Opportunities for Professional and Educational Success (HOPES) Scholarship of $10,000.00 is designed to support graduate healthcare students in the completion of their studies. The intent is to help reduce barriers so students can remain focused on academic and professional success.
Awardees will participate in programming designed to support the transition into their professional program, support on their academic journey and programming to support transition to practice.
Eligibility is limited to graduate students enrolled in select health professions programs within the Purcell School of Professional Studies, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Family Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Therapy and PA Studies.
Awards are based on a combination of demonstrated need and available funding.
Eligibility is limited to graduate students enrolled in select health professions programs within the Purcell School of Professional Studies, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Family Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Therapy and PA Studies.
Awards are based on a combination of demonstrated need and available funding.
Due to limited funding, not all eligible applicants can be funded. Applications are reviewed holistically, with attention to:
- Commitment to practicing in NYS
- The nature and urgency of the need
- Alignment with HOPE program goals
- Alignment with Le Moyne College mission and values
- Available funds at the time of review
Not receiving an award does not reflect a lack of merit or commitment.
Due to limited funding, not all eligible applicants can be funded. Applications are reviewed holistically, with attention to:
- Commitment to practicing in NYS
- The nature and urgency of the need
- Alignment with HOPE program goals
- Alignment with Le Moyne College mission and values
- Available funds at the time of review
Not receiving an award does not reflect a lack of merit or commitment.
As part of your admission materials, you’ll receive detailed information about the HOPES Scholarship, including eligibility and application instructions.
As part of your admission materials, you’ll receive detailed information about the HOPES Scholarship, including eligibility and application instructions.
The HOPES Scholarship, along with its accompanying wraparound support services, is designed to support students throughout their professional training. Awards are renewable for one additional year, provided that students continue to meet the academic and professional expectations of their program and actively participate in the required components of the HOPES program.
Renewed awards may total up to $20,000 over a two-year period.
Students who were not initially selected for the scholarship may be eligible to apply in future cycles, depending on funding availability and changes in individual circumstances.
Please note: Scholarship awards or emergency funding may be considered taxable income under federal and state guidelines. Because individual circumstances vary, we recommend consulting a tax professional for personalized guidance.
The HOPES Scholarship, along with its accompanying wraparound support services, is designed to support students throughout their professional training. Awards are renewable for one additional year, provided that students continue to meet the academic and professional expectations of their program and actively participate in the required components of the HOPES program.
Renewed awards may total up to $20,000 over a two-year period.
Students who were not initially selected for the scholarship may be eligible to apply in future cycles, depending on funding availability and changes in individual circumstances.
Please note: Scholarship awards or emergency funding may be considered taxable income under federal and state guidelines. Because individual circumstances vary, we recommend consulting a tax professional for personalized guidance.
If selected, you will receive an email from someone on our team. At this time, we will ask you to consider how you would like your funds distributed. The award can be automatically applied to your Le Moyne College student account, or sent to you as a direct deposit stipend. Funds are typically posted within several business days of notification.
Please note: Scholarship awards or emergency funding may be considered taxable income under federal and state guidelines. Because individual circumstances vary, we recommend consulting a tax professional for personalized guidance.
If selected, you will receive an email from someone on our team. At this time, we will ask you to consider how you would like your funds distributed. The award can be automatically applied to your Le Moyne College student account, or sent to you as a direct deposit stipend. Funds are typically posted within several business days of notification.
Please note: Scholarship awards or emergency funding may be considered taxable income under federal and state guidelines. Because individual circumstances vary, we recommend consulting a tax professional for personalized guidance.
Possibly. If you are receiving graduate student loans or other financial aid, the HOPES Scholarship and/or the Emergency Funding may impact your overall aid package. We encourage you to consult with Le Moyne College Financial Aid to discuss your individual situation.
For questions related to loans or aid adjustments, please contact:
Kelly Kelly – henryke@lemoyne.edu
Possibly. If you are receiving graduate student loans or other financial aid, the HOPES Scholarship and/or the Emergency Funding may impact your overall aid package. We encourage you to consult with Le Moyne College Financial Aid to discuss your individual situation.
For questions related to loans or aid adjustments, please contact:
Kelly Kelly – henryke@lemoyne.edu
We understand that this may be disappointing. Because funding is limited, many strong applications cannot be supported.
Students who are not selected are encouraged to:
- Remain connected to available campus resources
- Reach out if circumstances change
- Apply again if future opportunities become available
- Consider submitting an application to the HOPES Emergency Fund
- Reach out to the HOPES team directly at hopes@lemoyne.edu
Through the HOPES grant there are limited funds to support students who have unanticipated financial needs. See HOPES Emergency Fund below.
We understand that this may be disappointing. Because funding is limited, many strong applications cannot be supported.
Students who are not selected are encouraged to:
- Remain connected to available campus resources
- Reach out if circumstances change
- Apply again if future opportunities become available
- Consider submitting an application to the HOPES Emergency Fund
- Reach out to the HOPES team directly at hopes@lemoyne.edu
Through the HOPES grant there are limited funds to support students who have unanticipated financial needs. See HOPES Emergency Fund below.
No. Applying for or receiving a HOPES Grant does not affect academic standing, program progression, or faculty evaluation in any way.
No. Applying for or receiving a HOPES Grant does not affect academic standing, program progression, or faculty evaluation in any way.
Yes. Applications are reviewed with care and discretion, and information is shared only with those directly involved in the review process.
Le Moyne College is obligated to submit reports to NYS that includes demographic information on all students who are funded through the grant.
Yes. Applications are reviewed with care and discretion, and information is shared only with those directly involved in the review process.
Le Moyne College is obligated to submit reports to NYS that includes demographic information on all students who are funded through the grant.
In our grant structure, we have funding reserved for students experiencing immediate, unexpected financial need. This fund is available for any Le Moyne College graduate student pursuing a degree in healthcare (PA, FNP, OT, CMHS). Awards are typically no more than $1000.00.
To promote equitable access for all students, there is typically a 30-45 day waiting period before repeat requests may be submitted, depending on the category of need. Urgent or emergency circumstances may be considered sooner and students are encouraged to reach out to the HOPES team if they are unsure about eligibility.
In our grant structure, we have funding reserved for students experiencing immediate, unexpected financial need. This fund is available for any Le Moyne College graduate student pursuing a degree in healthcare (PA, FNP, OT, CMHS). Awards are typically no more than $1000.00.
To promote equitable access for all students, there is typically a 30-45 day waiting period before repeat requests may be submitted, depending on the category of need. Urgent or emergency circumstances may be considered sooner and students are encouraged to reach out to the HOPES team if they are unsure about eligibility.
For questions about the award, application process, or support options, please contact:
Ivy Huber – Senior Project Manager for HOPES, huberis@lemoyne.edu 315-445-4126
Beth Mercer, PA-C, MPAS – Program Director for HOPES, mercerew@lemoyne.edu 315-445-4623
For questions about the award, application process, or support options, please contact:
Ivy Huber – Senior Project Manager for HOPES, huberis@lemoyne.edu 315-445-4126
Beth Mercer, PA-C, MPAS – Program Director for HOPES, mercerew@lemoyne.edu 315-445-4623
You’re Not Alone: Support on The Heights
The HOPES Program showed me that though being vulnerable and transparent is difficult, there are people at Le Moyne who care and understand the challenges that come with being a healthcare provider and graduate student and are here to help.
Meet Our Team
Beth Mercer PA-C, MPAS |
Beth has worn a number of hats here at Le Moyne College over the last two decades, most notably acting as director of the PA program. She brings extensive experience in managing state and federal grants, advancing student success initiatives such as the MAGIS Program for Graduate Student Success, and developing targeted educational pathways, including the Veteran Bridge Pathway at Le Moyne College. Her work reflects a longstanding commitment to supporting learners, strengthening healthcare workforce development, and creating innovative programs that foster student achievement and professional growth.
What brings Beth hope? In recent years, I have become increasingly intentional about seeking hope and promise in everyday life. The conversations I share with friends, family members, colleagues, and students continually remind me of the power of connection, compassion, and shared purpose. I am deeply grateful for diverse perspectives and the common values that bring people together. |
Ivy Murray |
Ivy manages the day-to-day operations and reporting surrounding the HOPES Program. Coming from an eclectic background of public school teaching, paralegal work, and restaurant management, Ivy is immensely grateful and excited to have landed at Le Moyne and to be ensuring the success of healthcare students through the HOPES Program. She looks forward to going the extra mile to help students cross the finish line at graduation. Let’s expand and enrich the healthcare workforce in New York State together!
What brings Ivy hope? I find hope in nature. When the leaves on the trees start to bud in the spring, I am reminded of the resilient nature of all living things – humans included – and feel my hopefulness restored once more. |
Anh Trinh Murphy |
Anh Murphy is an educator specialized in student development and academic affairs. Her experience includes working with undergraduate, graduate, and continuing education students in order to help them achieve their academic, personal, and professional goals. Before
arriving at Le Moyne College, Anh was an academic advisor at Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management and The College of Arts and Sciences. Anh received her B.A.from Ithaca College, and her graduate degrees from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst (M.Ed.), and Syracuse University (M.S. I.D.D.E). She is currently a doctoral student at Syracuse University’s School of Education. Her research interests are around adult learners and their experiences while completing their college degrees. What brings Anh hope? Getting to know each student and being permitted to participate in their academic journey is what gives me hope. Anh Murphy is a mother, wife, student, and lover of noodles. |
Dr. Katie Goss |
Dr. Goss is a faculty member in the Occupational Therapy program. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Occupational Science and master’s in Occupational Therapy from Keuka College, followed by an Occupational Therapy doctorate from Misericordia University. She has been a full-time professor in the OT program for the past 7 years and currently serves as the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator. Outside of work, Dr. Goss loves spending time outdoors with her children kayaking and hiking together.
What brings Dr. Goss hope? One thing that gives me hope these days (aside from my children), is witnessing the growth of students- from their first day in the program to the moment they walk across the stage at graduation. Seeing how they navigate challenges and develop into confident professionals and colleagues is rewarding. |
Erica Lacey, Ph.D, LCSW, LMFT |
Dr. Erica Lacey is an Assistant Professor in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and serves as the faculty advisor for NAMI OnCampus. Dr. Lacey earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Nazareth University and dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Marriage & Family Therapy from Syracuse University. She began her career as a psychotherapist and has spent the past decade practicing across a variety of settings, including schools, correctional facilities, forensic services, child advocacy centers, residential treatment, and foster care. She later earned her Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Holy Cross. Dr. Lacey continues to practice as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in childhood trauma, and sexual violence prevention and treatment.
Outside of work, Dr. Lacey enjoys spending time outdoors with her Alaskan Malamute, Fletcher. What brings Dr. Lacey hope? Seeing bright and compassionate students answer the call to the mental health field and grow into their full potential — and the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2026 draft picks. |
Maggie Narrigan, MS, PA-C, MBA |
Professor Narrigan is both an undergraduate and Physician Assistant Studies alumna of Le Moyne College. She has worked as a surgical Physician Assistant in Central New York while also supporting PAs and NPs in administrative and professional development roles across regional healthcare systems.
For more than 15 years, she has served as an adjunct faculty member in Le Moyne’s Physician Assistant Studies program, with a strong interest in supporting students and early-career clinicians as they transition into practice — a focus that also informs her current PhD dissertation work. Professor Narrigan is also actively involved with the New York State Society of Physician Associates and will serve as the organization’s incoming President this year. What brings Professor Narrigan hope? Seeing the next generation of healthcare professionals bring their own perspective and energy into the field. Students today place a strong emphasis on collaboration, open communication, and innovative approaches to learning. Watching them grow into confident clinicians reminds me that healthcare continues to evolve in thoughtful and compassionate ways. |
Gina Myers, Ph.D, RN |
With a nursing career spanning more than three decades, Dr. Myers brings a wealth of expertise to the Le Moyne community. Her academic background includes a dual Bachelor’s degree in Nursing and Psychology and a PhD in Nursing from Binghamton University, as well as a Master’s in Nursing Administration from SUNY Polytechnic Institute. Her professional background is centered in acute care, notably serving as a nursing director at St. Joseph’s Health until 2006. Today, she maintains her ties to practice as a research consultant for St. Joseph’s and Trustee for Trinity Health of New York. During her twenty-years at Le Moyne, she has held various positions and is currently an assistant professor in the nursing department. She is dedicated to teaching at all levels, with a particular interest in research, evidence-based practice, and leadership.
What brings Dr. Myers hope? My hope is deeply rooted in my faith and the belief that good can come from even the most difficult circumstances. In those times strength can be found from not only within, but also from the support of others. Having meaningful connections with family, friends, colleagues, and students is important to me, and I find it a privilege to be able to walk beside anyone experiencing life’s challenges. Serving others fuels my hope. |
 Jody Coppola, DNP, FNP-BC HOPES Department Coach – Family Nurse Practitioner Department |
Dr. Coppola serves as a Professor of Practice within Le Moyne College’s Family Nurse Practitioner Program. A University at Buffalo alumna with a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree, she is board-certified in both Family Practice and Family Health. Throughout her sixteen-year career in graduate education, Jody has remained deeply connected to clinical practice, accumulating over two decades of experience as a primary care Nurse Practitioner. Her professional journey includes a decade of entrepreneurship as a private practice owner, and she currently provides primary care within a behavioral health setting. Committed to mentoring the next generation of providers, Jody has consistently served as a dedicated preceptor for medical, NP, and PA students alike.
What brings professor Coppola hope? Advancing the healthcare field by preparing the next generation of educators and practitioners fills me with hope for the future. I find further promise in the power of clinical collaboration, which strives to ensure that everyone has access to high-quality care that bolsters their own future and the well-being of their families. |
Questions? Connect with Us.
In the News
- Le Moyne Awarded $5 Million Grant from New York to Support Students in Purcell School Health Care Programs
- Le Moyne College to offer $10,000 stipends to health grad students for child care, other life needs
- New York State Department of Health Awards $19.5 Million to Support Health Care Education Programs
HOPES is made possible thanks to a $5 million, five-year grant from the New York State Department of Health’s Healthcare Education and Life-skills Program.
