+ FOCUS ON HEALTH

Fueling the Future of Nursing

Lois Severini ’61 Invests $1M in Stellato Nursing Scholarship


Lois Severini
In a time when the nation faces an unprecedented nursing shortage, Regis is answering the call by preparing the next generation of dedicated healthcare leaders. Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Lois Severini ’61, this mission is stronger than ever. (Pictured here from left to right: Vice President of Institutional Advancement Staci Shea, Enrique Foster Gittes, Lois Severini, and Regis College President Antoinette Hays during a visit to New York in December 2024.)

Severini’s transformative $1,000,000 gift to the Stellato Sisters Scholarship in Nursing is not just a donation; it is a powerful investment in the future of nursing—both for students and for communities nationwide. By supporting this scholarship, Lois is fueling Regis’ commitment to educating and graduating highly skilled nurses who will be at the forefront of healthcare. 

Inspired by Regis’ evolution in the fifty years since she graduated and by the leadership of Regis President Antoinette Hays in cultivating Regis’ strong focus on nursing education, Severini created the scholarship to honor the memory of her mother and four aunts. Since its inception in 2017, the scholarship has supported 10 students, covering their full tuition for all four years. This support has helped them pursue their dreams of a nursing education and empowered them to make a lasting impact in healthcare.

“For nearly forty years, Regis has been a beacon of excellence in nursing education, providing students with the knowledge and hands-on experience they need to excel in a rapidly evolving field,” says Vice President of Institutional Advancement Staci Shea. “Lois’ gift ensures that nursing students have access to the tools and resources they need to succeed, helping them focus on their studies and enter the workforce ready to tackle the challenges of an ever-growing healthcare system.” 

With nursing shortages at critical levels, this gift will increase the number of nursing professionals nationwide while empowering generations of Regis nursing students to meet the growing healthcare needs with passion, dedication, and the highest standards—standards that have become synonymous with a Regis education. 

The Stellato Scholarship is not only transforming the lives of Regis nursing students — it is also changing the lives of the thousands of patients and families they will serve throughout their careers.  

Here’s what this support means to the students who are preparing to make an impact: 

Pamela De la Cruz
“This scholarship has allowed me to pursue my academic goals and experience opportunities I never imagined possible. Regis has taught me the value of community and friendship, and I am so grateful for the chance to be part of such a supportive environment. This scholarship has made a life-changing difference in my education and future career as a nurse and midwife.” Stacie Gomes-Almal ’26 

 

Staci Gomes-Akmal
“As the oldest of four siblings, receiving this scholarship has been a tremendous blessing for my family. It has eased our financial burden and given me the freedom to focus fully on my studies, even while working part-time as a pharmacy technician. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and hope to one day pay forward the kindness that has made my education possible.” Pamela De la Cruz Batista ’26