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Cheryl McRae-Bergeron had been a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) for more than 15 years when she saw an ad for the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program at Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing in the early 1990s. Though she was already a decorated colonel in the U.S. Air Force, she knew a doctoral degree would help her earn the leadership roles she desired.

McRae-Bergeron entered the �ǿմ�ý program and two years later, armed with her DNP, was appointed chief of medical operations for the Pacific Air Command—a position she held until she retired in 2002.

“Having studied and worked in many different environments, I know what the school did for me,” said McRae-Bergeron, DNP (NUR ‘94). “[It provided] me the confidence I needed to elevate my career.”

Now, McRae-Bergeron seeks to provide other future CRNAs—advanced practice nurses who administer anesthesia in a variety of medical environments—with similar opportunities through a $5.5 million commitment. The Dr. Cheryl E. McRae-Bergeron Endowed Scholarship Fund will support the award of at least one full-tuition scholarship annually to a student pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice with a specialization in nurse anesthesia.

“Nursing has been my life’s passion—especially in my work as a CRNA,” said the alumna, who has supported the university and School of Nursing for more than 25 years. “I have no doubt [the] exceptional faculty and staff [at Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing] will continue investing in creating nurse leaders and highly qualified CRNAs.“

Students in �ǿմ�ý’s three-year CRNA program prepare for a career in the growing field through direct patient care, professional development and clinical research.

“This generous gift from Cheryl McRae-Bergeron is a continuation of her commitment to our school, our students and the entire nursing profession,” said Carol M. Musil, dean for the School of Nursing. “Through her support, the school will continue creating life-changing opportunities for our CRNA students as they prepare to deliver care in this critical field.”

Originally published in the summer 2023 issue of Forward Thinking magazine