Kathleen Salmon Jose ’87, G’94, former chair of the Regis College Board of Trustees, is being honored through a new scholarship created by her sons, Michael and Craig Appaneal. The scholarship was officially announced at the Let It Shine Gala on October 29, Regis College’s annual fundraising event, which has raised more than $7 million in support of scholarships since its inception in 2016, and will be established with an initial gift of $125,000. 

“Our family has seen firsthand how higher education can change lives and open opportunities. Regis truly transformed our family—instilling a love of learning, a commitment to service, and the confidence to reach beyond what you think is possible,” says Michael Appaneal. “Regis has given our family so many tools to thrive, and we’re proud to pay it forward to the next generation of students."

The Kathleen Salmon Jose ’87, G’94 Nursing Excellence Scholarship Fund recognizes her decades-long contributions to healthcare and education, as well as her commitment to service, leadership, and the Regis community. 

A former senior vice president and the first chief nursing officer at Lahey Clinic Medical Center in Burlington, Mass., Jose spent her career as a leader in healthcare, overseeing hundreds of staff, establishing educational programs for nurses, and contributing to the advancement of quality patient care. She served on the Regis College Board of Trustees for 9 years, including 4 years as Board Chair.  

The Kathleen Salmon Jose ’87, ’94 Scholarship will provide financial support to students pursuing careers in nursing, enabling them to develop the skills and leadership qualities necessary to make a meaningful impact in their communities. The scholarship reflects the values Jose has demonstrated throughout her career: dedication, service, care for others, and fostering the growth of future leaders. 

Through this new scholarship, the Jose/Appaneal family continues a tradition of giving back to Regis College and supporting students as they pursue educational opportunities that prepare them to lead with compassion and purpose.