Full Press Release Details
Louisville, KY (May 26, 2026) – BrightSpring Health Services, a leading provider of independent health services for complex populations, today announced the recipients of its 2026 Brighter Futures Scholarship and Hospice Nursing Scholarships, reinforcing the Company’s commitment to expanding access to higher education for talented, under-reached students while bolstering the future of the healthcare workforce.
This year, Derek Pearson , of Louisville, Kentucky, has been selected as the 2026 Brighter Futures Scholarship recipient. Additionally, four students – Eden Farber (Louisville, Kentucky), Olivia Jewell (Louisville, Kentucky), Damaris Olabisi (Louisville, Kentucky) and Teddie Ruehman (Claremore, Oklahoma) – have been awarded Hospice Nursing Scholarships as they pursue careers in nursing with a focus on hospice care.
Each recipient demonstrates strong academic achievement and a clear commitment to serving their communities, particularly in areas aligned with BrightSpring’s mission of helping people live their best lives.
“At BrightSpring, we believe investing in education is an investment in the future of our communities and the healthcare system,” said Jon Rousseau, BrightSpring’s President and CEO. “These five students exemplify dedication, compassion and commitment to service. We are proud to support their continued growth and look forward to the meaningful contributions they will make in the years ahead as they take the next step in their educational journeys.”
The Brighter Futures Scholarship was established in 2021 to expand access to higher education for high-potential students facing financial barriers. In 2023, BrightSpring launched the Hospice Nursing Scholarship to support students pursuing careers in hospice care and to help meet the growing demand for skilled, compassionate professionals in this field.
Through the Brighter Futures Scholarship, one student receives $10,000 annually, renewable for up to four years, totaling $40,000. The Hospice Nursing Scholarship provides four students pursuing RN or BSN degrees with $5,000 per year for up to two years, totaling $10,000 each. Both scholarship programs are administered in partnership with the Community Foundation of Louisville .
About BrightSpring Health Services: BrightSpring Health Services provides complementary home- and community-based pharmacy and health solutions for complex populations in need of specialized and/or chronic care. Through the Company’s service lines, including pharmacy, home health care and rehabilitation, we provide comprehensive and more integrated care and clinical solutions in all 50 states to over 450,000 customers, clients and patients daily. BrightSpring has consistently demonstrated strong and industry-leading quality metrics across its services lines, while improving the health and quality of life for high-need individuals and reducing overall healthcare system costs.
About Community Foundation of Louisville: Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. With nearly $800 million in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners, we connect real investments with relevant causes. In addition, key priorities of the Foundation’s mission are to advance racial equity and open opportunities for all. Working with neighbors, changemakers, and community investors, we’re inspiring greater generosity to move us all forward. Learn more at cflouisville.org .