The Jennie Oakes Continuing Education Fund was created to honor the nursing legacy of Jennie Oakes and support the talent pipeline for rural hospitals.

Established by Dr. C. W. Oakes in memory of his wife, who was a nurse, the Jennie Oakes Continuing Education Fund has been supporting those pursuing an education and career in medicine for decades. In 2013, with the support of Dr. Robert Oakes, Dr. C.W. Oakes’ son, the fund was transferred to the Huron County Community Foundation (HCCF) and made a permanent endowment.

Now, each year, the fund provides grant dollars to Harbor Beach Community Hospital (HBCH) for the purpose of supporting their staff in their educational pursuits. This can include any additional credential or training being sought by a member of the HBCH staff. To ensure that rural hospitals continue to thrive, it is important to invest in those who want to serve the community. This fund supports that effort.

In 2024, five HBCH staff members received financial support from the Jennie Oakes Continuing Education Fund:

Jordyn Lemanski
Madelyn Geiger
Lauren Williamson
Aubrey Geiger
Nichole Gornowich

All five recipients are currently employed in the Acute Care Unit or Lakeview Extended Care and Rehab at HBCH. Recipients are either entering nursing programs or beginning their undergraduate medical studies.

“We want to retain our local talent. Funds like the Oakes Continuing Education Fund allow us to support the talent pipeline for rural medicine.” said HCCF Executive Director Mackenzie Price. “We are grateful for the Oakes Family and their commitment to supporting HBCH provide exceptional care for our community.”