For the second time in as many weeks, Schuylkill County commissioners have given a $100,000 boost to county nursing education programs.

On Wednesday, they announced the establishment of the Frank J. Staudenmeier Memorial Scholarship for eligible county residents.

County Financial Director Paul E. Buber announced the transfer of the $100,000 from the county’s contingency, or unallocated, fund for the scholarship, to be established at Penn State University’s Schuylkill Haven campus.

“We are grateful that this endowed scholarship will make a difference for student nurses for generations to come, and that it will help address the nursing shortage in our area,” said Penn State Schuylkill Chancellor Patrick M. Jones.

A ceremony is tentatively planned at the campus for Feb. 7, said Commissioners Chairman Barron L. Hetherington.

Staudenmeier, 69, of Ashland, passed away on Feb. 29, 2020, while vacationing in Florida.

The affable commissioner was known for his calm demeanor, warmth, and greeting friends and strangers alike with a handshake or a pat on the shoulder.

He had served since 2002, and was anticipating another four years in office.

Commissioners on Jan.18 agreed to donate $100,000 to Alvernia University’s Pottsville CollegeTowne facility in Pottsville. The money, from the county’s American Recovery Plan Act funds, was earmarked for the nursing program.