Frances Sadler Award for Nursing

The Frances Sadler Award for Nursing was established at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation in appreciation of the critical work performed by nurses in the Lehigh Valley. A retired nurse, Frances Sadler knew that nurses perform extraordinary work every day. She has a desire to recognize and help support her colleagues as they begin their nursing careers.

Mrs. Sadler, a native of the Lehigh Valley, acknowledged that there’s a chronic need for trained nurses, especially in the area of women’s wellness. As Mrs. Sadler had explained, “There have been many times when women have been unfairly treated by the medical profession. I want to see women have the health care they need for themselves, and by extension, their families. That is why the nursing award recognizes an individual who has given time and talent to improving the lives of women.”

LVCF thanks Frances Sadler and her family for generously endowing this special award that will be given to a first-year Lehigh Valley nurse who has experience with caring for the well-being of women, a demonstrated financial need, and a strong academic record.

The Application for the Frances Sadler Award for Nursing  

• Individuals meeting the following criteria are encouraged to apply: 
• Working in the Lehigh Valley region as a nurse, for example in a hospital, clinic, or doctor’s office; 
• Graduated from a four-year accredited college or university in Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Nursing; 
  – In first year of employment; 
• Has volunteer, rotation, or work experience at a center, clinic, or department for women’s well-being and care; 
  – Preference will be given to those with a strong academic record and financial need. 

The 2025-2026 Grant Cycle will occur in Fall 2025. Please check back for application information. 

Please contact: Maureen Connolley Wendling, Director of Donor Initiatives at maureen@lvcfoundation.org 

Honor health care advocate with gift to fund for nurses

In honor of Frances Sadler, a devoted nurse and longtime supporter of local charities, her husband Rob established the Frances Sadler Award for Nursing through the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation. Featured in this heartfelt column by Bill White, Fran’s legacy is celebrated through stories of her enthusiastic participation in his annual Christmas Lights Tour fundraiser and her unwavering commitment to women’s health and nursing. The award, given annually to a deserving Lehigh Valley nursing graduate focused on women’s wellness, continues Fran’s mission of supporting the profession she loved. Read more about her life, her impact, and how you can contribute to her legacy.