West Scholarships to four PJC nursing students

Published or Revised August 14, 2014

Kristi Baggett, Hillary Baker, Danielle Frankland and Clayton Hanley were recently awarded 2014-15 Anthony and Debra West Endowed nursing scholarships. Paris Regional Medical Center CEO Steve Grubbs and Paris Junior College Director of Health Occupations, Marcia Putnam made the announcement recently. Anthony and Debra West were both long-time employees at CHRISTUS St. Joseph’s Hospital and Paris Regional Medical Center (PRMC), who were tragically killed in an accident in May 2007. PRMC employees, administration, physicians and friends created the West Endowment Fund to support the education of future nurses. Steve Grubbs, PRMC CEO, said, “We congratulate Kristi, Hillary, Danielle and Clayton on their selection and look forward to seeing them complete their training to their ability, and to make positive contributions that will impact the care provided to many residents in our community.” Marcia Putnam, director of health occupations at PJC, added that Debra West received her associate’s degree in nursing from PJC, worked as an RN for many years and served as a case manager. Following Anthony West’s military career, which included two tours of duty in Vietnam where he earned a Purple Heart, he attended PJC and earned his associate’s degree in nursing, then worked as an RN at PRMC for 17 years. “We are grateful to all the Paris Regional Medical Center administration, co-workers, physicians and friends of Anthony and Debra who have been so generous to donate to the West Endowment Fund providing such a fitting tribute to their lives of service,” said Derald Bulls, PJC’s director of institutional advancement/alumni affairs. Donations may be made to the West Endowments through the Paris Junior College Memorial Foundation, 2400 Clarksville Street, Paris, TX 75460. If any interested parties would like to know more about creating an endowment through the College they may contact the Institutional Advancement office, (903) 782-0276.