In Dec. 11 IssueBy Kim GrahamTimes Journal ReporterBridgett Kean of Jamestown was named recipient of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Women’s Educational Grant.
Kean, a licensed practical nurse, is currently employed with the Lake Cumberland District Health Department as a school nurse at Russell Springs Elementary School, where she helps registered nurses give children physicals.
“I wanted to be able to do more for the children,” Kean said.
She said working as a school nurse the past 3 years is what inspired her to return to school to become a registered nurse.
An active volunteer, Kean has donated her time and talent to many local organizations including Russell County Relay for Life, Russell County Jaycees annual Toys for Tots, and Preschool Sunday School at Bethel Methodist Church in Jamestown.
The Keans were also a foster family until they adopted three children and closed their foster home.
Kean was recognized at the Gold Star Luncheon during Kentucky Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting on Friday, Dec. 5, 2008 at the Galt House in Louisville but was unable to attend due to work responsibilities.
The $1,500 grant is awarded annually to a female non-traditional student who is interested in resuming her education after leaving school to fulfill either family or work-related responsibilities.
Monies for the grant are raised through the leadership of the Kentucky Farm Bureau Women’s Advisory Committee.
The grant will allow her to pursue her dream by registering in the associate degree nursing program at Somerset Community College.
Kean says she is completing basic courses now and plans to apply for the nursing program in 2009, begin studies in 2010 and graduate in 2011.
“Somerset Community College offers the Bridge program so I can go to school at night,” said Kean.
“That makes it easier for someone who is working with a family to go back to school.”
When she has completed requirements to become a registered nurse, Kean intends to continue providing her services close to home in Russell County.
“My plans are to continue to work where I am,” Kean said.
Kean and husband Richard live in Jamestown with their three children Briana, Kayla and Zachary.
