The 2025 Conrad-Nestor-Walsh Scholarship is now accepting applications, offering an incredible opportunity for students with ties to South County Health. The scholarship is designed to support those pursuing post-secondary education while honoring the legacy of three remarkable physicians who made significant contributions to South County Health.

Application Deadline: April 11, 2025

Who is Eligible?

The scholarship will be awarded to students who meet the following criteria:

• Parent, Grandparent, or Legal Guardian employed by, or volunteers at, South County Health
• Graduating high school senior and Rhode Island resident
• Accepted into an accredited post-secondary institution
• Demonstrate a combination of academic achievement and financial need

Conrad Nestor Walsh Application 2025

History and Legacy of the Scholarship

Honoring the Legacy of Three Esteemed Physicians

In 1999, Dr. David Chronley, MD, created the Conrad-Nestor Scholarship to pay tribute to two outstanding country doctors at South County Hospital: Robert L. Conrad, MD and Thomas A. Nestor, MD. In 2021, the scholarship was expanded to honor another respected South County Hospital provider, Dr. John Walsh, following his passing in 2019.

Dr. Robert L. Conrad: A Pioneer in Emergency Medical Services

Dr. Robert L. Conrad was a general surgeon who worked at South County Hospital from 1965 to 2000. His legacy includes significant contributions to both the medical community and the hospital, such as:

• Establishing the first EMT training program in the state
• Initiating the first radio communication system between South County Health and local rescue squads
• Establishing the first FAA-approved hospital heliport in New England

Dr. Conrad served as both President of the Medical Staff and Chief of Surgery, and he played an instrumental role in improving patient care, medical facilities, and staff at South County Hospital.

Dr. Thomas A. Nestor: A Surgeon and Humanitarian

Dr. Thomas A. Nestor worked at South County Hospital from 1946 to 1986. Known for his intense work ethic and compassion for his patients, Dr. Nestor continued making house calls until his retirement. A Major in WWII, Dr. Nestor made numerous jumps under fire to provide medical care to wounded soldiers in the South Pacific. His legacy of service is a defining aspect of the scholarship.

Dr. John Walsh: A Lifelong Commitment to South County Health

Dr. John Walsh joined South County Hospital in 1953 and spent 57 years of his 63-year medical career with the hospital. As the first board-certified surgeon at South County, he was also Chief of Surgery. Dr. Walsh continued to serve his community after retiring from surgery at age 65 by working in the Emergency Department for another 24 years. His dedication to healthcare and the South County community has left an indelible mark.

Selection Criteria

To qualify for the Conrad-Nestor-Walsh Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. High School Graduation & Residency - Be a graduating high school senior who is a resident of Rhode Island.
2. Post-Secondary Admission- Have been accepted into an accredited, post-secondary institution for further education or training.
3. Academic Achievement - Demonstrate academic accomplishment through grades, coursework, or other academic indicators.
4. South County Health Connection - Be the child, grandchild, or dependent of a current South County Health employee or volunteer.

Application Requirements

To apply for the Conrad-Nestor-Walsh Scholarship, applicants must submit the following materials:

• Completed Application Form: Ensure all sections are filled out completely and accurately.
• Essay (300 words or less): Write an essay explaining why you should be considered for this scholarship. Discuss your academic goals, personal aspirations, and how your connection to South County Health has shaped your journey.
• High School Transcript: Provide an official transcript from your most recent high school year.
• Letter of Recommendation (from employer/volunteer organization): Submit a letter from a representative of an organization where you have worked or volunteered. The letter should describe your service to the organization.
• Letter of Recommendation (from teacher/guidance counselor): Submit a second letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor who can speak to your academic achievements and personal character.

How to Apply

• Download the Application Form Here 
• Complete all required materials as specified.
• Submit your completed application and required documents by the application deadline: April 11, 2025.

For more information about the application process or eligibility requirements, please email Kace Quinn.