News Summary
Mia Russo, a nursing major, has been named a Self Scholar at Lander University, recognized for her dedication to academic excellence during Self Regional Healthcare’s banquet. Established in 2022, the Self Regional Scholars Program supports top nursing students, requiring them to work for Self Regional post-graduation. Lander University will soon host its 170th Commencement, honoring 442 graduates across various colleges with strict security measures in place.
Greenwood, South Carolina – Mia Russo, a nursing major from Newberry, has been honored as a Self Scholar at Lander University for the 2025-26 academic year. The announcement was made during a banquet hosted by Self Regional Healthcare on September 25, where the cohort of Self Scholars was celebrated for their exceptional achievements.
Dr. Holisa Wharton, dean of the College of Nursing, Human Performance and Health Sciences at Lander University, commended the Self Scholars for their dedication, service, and commitment to academic excellence. These scholarships are among the most prestigious for nursing students at Lander University, with a focus on fostering high academic standards, community engagement, and potential for future careers.
The Self Regional Scholars Program was established in 2022 and provides substantial support for Lander’s top nursing students. Students from the counties of Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, McCormick, Newberry, and Saluda are given preference for this coveted scholarship. The initiative is part of a broader strategy funded by Self Regional Healthcare, which aims to address a growing demand for qualified nursing professionals in the healthcare sector.
As part of the scholarship agreement, Self Scholars are required to commit to one year of employment at Self Regional after graduation, contributing to the healthcare organization’s goal of enhancing its role as a leading provider of healthcare services in South Carolina.
Lander University is preparing for its upcoming 170th Commencement Exercises, scheduled for December 12, 2024, at Finis Horne Arena. The university will host two ceremonies, honoring a total of 442 graduates from various colleges. The morning ceremony will witness graduates from the College of Business and the College of Science and Mathematics, while the afternoon will feature those from the College of Arts and Humanities, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, College of Education, and School of Nursing.
Dr. Shana Southard Dobbs, recognized as Lander’s 2024 Distinguished Professor of the Year, will serve as the keynote speaker for both graduation events. Tickets for the ceremony are required and will be distributed through the Registrar’s Office, with each graduate allowed to provide up to nine guest tickets. Those without tickets will have access to an overflow area with a livestream of the ceremonies.
Lander University has implemented strict security measures for the commencement, including a clear bag policy and the use of metal detectors at all entry points of the arena. For individuals unable to attend the ceremony in person, the event will be available for livestream viewing on Lander’s website.
The university maintains an acceptance rate of approximately 62%, rendering it generally accessible to prospective students. Lander University offers more than 60 areas of study encompassing liberal arts, sciences, and professional programs in fields such as business, nursing, and education. The most popular undergraduate major is business administration.
Situated on a 123-acre campus in Greenwood, South Carolina, Lander serves a diverse student population from numerous states and countries. The institution boasts a favorable student/faculty ratio of 17 to 1, with average class sizes around 23 students. Beyond academics, Lander supports an active student life with over 80 clubs and organizations and the university competes at the NCAA Division II level in athletics.
FAQ
Who was named a Self Scholar at Lander University?
Mia Russo, a nursing major from Newberry, was named a Self Scholar at Lander University.
What event honored the 2025-26 cohort of Self Scholars?
The 2025-26 cohort of the Self Scholars Program was honored at a banquet hosted by Self Regional Healthcare on September 25.
What is the Self Regional Scholars Program?
The Self Regional Scholars Program was founded in 2022 as a highly sought-after scholarship for Lander’s top nursing students, emphasizing academic excellence, community involvement, and career potential.
What is required of Self Scholars after graduation?
In return for the scholarship, Self Scholars commit to one year of employment at Self Regional after graduating from Lander.
When will Lander University hold its 170th Commencement Exercises?
Lander University will hold its 170th Commencement Exercises on December 12, 2024, at Finis Horne Arena.
How many graduates are expected to participate in the ceremonies?
A total of 442 graduates from different colleges are expected to participate in the ceremonies.
What is Lander University’s acceptance rate?
Lander University’s acceptance rate is approximately 62%, making it generally accessible to prospective students.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | Self Regional Scholars Program |
| Year Established | 2022 |
| Scholars Honored | Mia Russo and fellow 2025-26 cohort |
| Requirements Post-Graduation | One year of employment at Self Regional |
| Commencement Date | December 12, 2024 |
| Number of Graduates | 442 |
| Acceptance Rate | Approximately 62% |
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Russo Named Self Scholar at Lander University
- GoLaurens: Lander University Commencement Set for December 12
- Greenville Online: U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges 2025 Rankings
- ThoughtCo: Lander University Admissions
- Greenville Online (Image Link)
- Wikipedia: Lander University
- Google Search: Lander University
- Google Scholar: Lander University
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lander University
- Google News: Lander University
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
