Doctors Hospital has awarded scholarships to two Caymanian students pursuing careers in pharmacy and nursing in the United States.
Keya Berry, who is studying for a doctor of pharmacy degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy, and Gianna McLaughlin, a nursing student at the University of Tampa, are the hospital’s 2026 scholarship recipients.
Berry hopes to specialise in compounding pharmacy, which involves preparing customised medications to meet individual patients’ needs.
She said the scholarship will help to cover the remainder of her tuition, allowing her to focus on her studies and professional development.
“This scholarship means a great deal to me, and having my name connected with Doctors Hospital is truly an honour,” she said in a press release.
“I’m very thankful for Doctors Hospital’s investment in my education and for this opportunity to continue working toward my goal of becoming a pharmacist and making a meaningful impact through my future practice.”
McLaughlin is entering her fourth and final year of nursing school. She has completed clinical rotations in obstetrics, paediatrics and medical-surgical nursing, with mental health and community health placements still to come.
A previous scholarship recipient, she has also completed three summer internships at Doctors Hospital, gaining experience in its medical-surgical, outpatient and maternity units.
Her most recent placement took place in June and July this year, following an internship in summer 2025.
McLaughlin said the scholarship had helped her pursue her nursing education and gain practical experience at the hospital.
“I am incredibly grateful for the continued support and look forward to completing my final year of nursing school and beginning my career as a registered nurse,” she said.
Doctors Hospital medical director Dr Richard Preece praised both students for their commitment to their community and their determination to improve healthcare.
“The distinguishing characteristics of these two amazing young Caymanian women are their passion for their community, their extraordinary sense of service, and their determination to lead improvement for all,” he said.
“We look forward to welcoming them both into Cayman’s healthcare industry in the near future, as qualified and competent clinicians.”
Mario Ebanks, the hospital’s director of human resources, said the scholarship programme is intended to help young Caymanians develop the knowledge, skills and experience needed for careers in healthcare and allied professions.
