Celebrate a Nurse scholarship awarded to military veteran

Jake Griebe, a third-semester nursing student at Madison College’s Reedsburg campus, was awarded the $2,000 Celebrate a Nurse Scholarship.  

The annual Celebrate a Nurse 5K Run/Walk raises money through the generous support of sponsors and participants to support the scholarship.

Griebe was inspired to become a nurse several years ago when he experienced a life-threatening health emergency and spent time in an intensive care unit. “I saw and felt the positive impact the nurses had on me and other patients,” he says. “I want to be in a position to have the same sort of impact on people and help them when they are in the same situation I was in.”

The scholarship funds are making a significant difference in Griebe’s education. He plans to use part of the award to purchase a stethoscope that amplifies sounds, which he needs due to hearing damage he sustained while serving in the United States Marine Corps.  

Jake Griebe poses for a photo with Madison College Reedsburg staff.

Jake Griebe’s dedication and hard work in the nursing program were recognized when receiving the scholarship. Pictured (left to right) are Linda Spencer, Madison College Reedsburg Campus Manager, Jake Griebe, and Ryan Bohen, RAMC Director of Human Resources.

A future healthcare professional 

After graduating this May, Griebe intends to immediately enroll in a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree program through the University of Wisconsin system, ultimately bringing his skills back to the community. “My goal is to work in a local emergency department or intensive care unit,” he says.

“The annual Celebrate a Nurse 5K Run/Walk not only highlights the importance of nursing but helps support students pursuing this vital profession,” says Linda Spencer, Madison College-Reedsburg Campus Manager.

Community members can participate and support future nursing scholarships at the 2025 Celebrate a Nurse 5K Run/Walk on Saturday, May 3, at 9:30 a.m. at the Madison College Reedsburg campus.

Madison College-Reedsburg is a premier healthcare-focused campus offering certified nursing assistant, and associate degree nursing – RN and EMT. Students can apply for nursing program admission in the fall and spring semesters.  

Learn more about life-changing learning opportunities at Madison College-Reedsburg.