By Tressa Presley McLeod, University Communications and Marketing
As nursing students rolled their suitcases and supplies into Atala Residence Hall, they weren’t just settling into a new home — they were stepping into a transformative experience made possible by a new partnership between the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee and PAM Health.
Students from the campus’s Accelerated Second Degree Nursing program make up the first cohort of the PAM Health Living Community, a new initiative that combines housing support, clinical training, and professional development. The scholarship was funded by a gift from PAM Health, a national healthcare company with hospitals in Sarasota and Venice. For these students, move-in day marks the beginning of both their academic journey and their participation in a living-learning community designed to prepare them for the demands and rewards of a nursing career.
“This contribution eases the financial burden and allows our future nurses to focus fully on their education, clinical training, and growth as compassionate, skilled professionals,” said Usha Menon, senior associate vice president of USF Health and dean of the College of Nursing.
Investments like these have a lasting impact—not only on our students but on the communities they will go on to serve.
Usha Menon
Senior associate vice president of USF Health and dean of the USF College of Nursing
The 16-month program is tailored for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field and are now pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). With the scholarship, students can live on campus while taking part in hands-on learning at PAM Health’s nearby hospitals, networking events, seminars, and other activities designed to strengthen both their clinical and interpersonal skills.
For many, the residential experience brings more than just convenience—it offers a renewed sense of focus, purpose, and connection.
“Living on campus helps me stay focused, study with friends, and actually feel rested,” said Sarah Lapton, one of the inaugural PAM Health scholars. “It’s already starting to feel like home.” Previously working in marketing and nonprofits, Lapton said the scholarship is helping her fully transition into a healthcare career—from clinical training to meeting industry leaders. “It’s a whole new world, but this program is helping me get immersed and stay on track.”
Nursing students settle into Atala Residence Hall as part of the inaugural PAM Health Living Community at USF Sarasota-Manatee.
Katlyn Cocks, another student in the cohort, said her path to nursing began with a deeply personal experience. “What inspired me to become a nurse was my brother’s accident—he suffered burns on 30% of his body,” she said. “The support and care we received from the nurses left a lasting impression on me.” She later became an EMT and decided to pursue her BSN. Now, living on campus with her cohort, she said, “We’re already together every day—studying, going to clinicals—so being able to live and learn together makes everything easier and more meaningful.”
For Julia Howerton, who earned her first degree in biology, the decision to pursue nursing at USF was immediate. “At USF, we’re really pushed to grow, not just in the clinical setting but also in the classroom,” she said. “Being part of a community that encourages me to explore all aspects of life helps me become more well-rounded and discover what truly excites me.”
Her father, Don Howerton, said the experience has been life-changing—for the whole family. “USF has been a beacon for our daughter,” he said. “She’s close to home, surrounded by support, and on her way to becoming a nurse—we couldn’t be prouder. Thanks to the PAM Health scholarship, she’s focused, encouraged, and part of a community that’s guiding her every step of the way.”
The Atala Residence Hall provides these students with a traditional college living experience—something many haven’t had before—but with an added layer of shared purpose.
“By investing in the PAM Health Living Community program, we are empowering students to concentrate fully on their education while living and learning among others who share their dreams,” said Anthony Misitano, founder, president and CEO of PAM Health.
As they unpack and prepare for classes, these students are already part of something bigger — a community built on compassion, ambition, and care for the future of healthcare.
The first cohort of the PAM Health Living Community scholars prepares to begin their academic journey at USF Sarasota-Manatee.
Photography by Yadyra Guzman, University Communications and Marketing