This fund is inspired by the life and career of Rosa W. Wims, LPN to support education, training, and certification of nursing students in efforts to promote a diversified and inclusive workforce through the Rochester Regional Health System.

Mrs. Wims began her career path at Rochester Regional Health on the environmental services team at Rochester General Hospital. She was asked to train to become a licensed professional nurse eventually becoming one of the first black LPN at Rochester General Hospital. Mrs. Wims truly embodied her top three passions: community service, nursing, and diversity.

In 1984 Mrs. Wims retired from Rochester General Hospital after nearly 30 years of service but her work was far from over. She continued serving the community by founding the Faith Community Health Awareness Center on Genesee Street that provided small medical services and fed families in need. Her next move was to Foodlink where she served on the board of directors. Here she started a pre-Thanksgiving dinner tradition that has served hundreds of Rochester city residents. Click here to learn more about this annual tradition.

In 2020 we saw and celebrated the year of the nurse. We witnessed the courage, compassion, and skill they bring to the job every single day and couldn't be more grateful for their service. Please consider honoring Mrs. Wims, her incredible work, and the future aspirations of so many like her. Your generous gift, of any amount, will celebrate Mrs. Wims and will help provide the backbone of financial support needed for our future nurses to carry out their dreams and duties. You make all the difference.

Lead gifts of $3,000 each were made by Rachel Adonis and Bill Johnson to start this important fundraising effort.

Mrs. Wims passed away on Saturday, September 23, three months before celebrating her 101st birthday. Her legacy will live on with The Rosa W. Wims, LPN Scholarship and in so many arenas in the Greater Rochester community.