2026
NEF Gala Sponsors

Robert V. Piemonte, EdD, RN, CAE, FAAN, championed the nursing profession as the Executive Director of the National Student Nurses’ Association and other leading nursing organizations. As an advocate of shared governance, he transformed hundreds of nursing school student nurse “clubs” into pre-professional nursing associations. In preparation for professional nursing careers, students participated in decision-making and policy development at school chapters, state associations, and nationally in NSNA.

Countless colleagues credit Dr. Piemonte with advancing their careers and enhancing their professional development. Through this scholarship fund, initially funded by Diane J. Mancino, EdD, RN, CAE, FAAN, his legacy of extraordinary leadership will continue to advance his beloved profession by supporting graduate studies for RNs to become nurse educators.

This year’s NEF Gala Reception will take place on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Columbus Citizens Foundation Townhouse located at 8 East 69th Street, New York City. We will be celebrating multiple new scholarships, honoring former Executive Director Jerelyn Weiss, and remembering Bea Goodwin.

The entry donation is $150 and helps to fund scholarships for graduate (master's and doctoral) nursing education. Benefactors ($500) and Patrons ($250) will receive recognition at the event. Higher sponsorship levels with additional benefits are also available.

After 10 years of dedicated service, Jerelyn Weiss, MS, JD, FNP, RN, Executive Director of NEF, has retired from her position. She will be rejoining the Board of Directors at NEF's spring meeting in June 2026.

Jerelyn’s association with NEF began as a member of the Board of Directors, beginning in 2011 and extending until November 2015, when she became its first Executive Director. Her leadership and commitment have strengthened NEF’s work and advanced our mission in meaningful ways.

We are deeply grateful to Jerelyn for her many contributions to NEF and the lasting impact of her tenure as Executive Director on the fulfillment of our mission and values. Please join us in thanking Jerelyn for her years of service, excellence, and commitment by sending a personal message to info@n-e-f.org to be compiled for her.

Nurses Educational Funds is proud to announce the establishment of the Bea Goodwin Scholarship for nurse educators created in memory of Beatrice "Bea" Goodwin, MS, PhD, RN, a nurse leader extraordinaire.

This permanent scholarship, initiated in 2026, honors Bea Goodwin, a nursing leader who was passionate about excellence in nursing education. Dr. Goodwin earned her BSN from Vanderbilt University and her Master's and PhD from New York University.

For over 100 years, NEF has funded scholarships for master's and doctoral nursing degrees, thanks to the generosity of our donors. Join our community of supporters by donating today!

Learn more about our permanent scholarships or contact Ginger Berman, Executive Director, gberman@n-e-f.org, for information about other giving opportunities.

NEF is a 501(c)3 organization; your contribution is tax-deductible.

NEF's mission is to promote leadership and health equity through scholarship support for professional nurses seeking master’s and doctoral degrees in nursing education, practice, service and research.

NEF's vision is to be a national leader in providing scholarships to nurses that benefit nursing, health care and the global community.