Baltimore Ravens and Bisciotti Foundation Commit $20M to Bolster Nursing Workforce
In honor of National Nurses Day, the Baltimore Ravens and The Stephen and Renee Bisciotti Foundation announced a $20 million investment to support Baltimore-area hospitals in strengthening their nursing workforce.
The funding—divided into four $5 million grants—will go to MedStar Health, the University of Maryland Medical System, Johns Hopkins Health System, and Mercy Medical Center. These grants will help the hospitals implement innovative strategies for recruiting, training, and retaining nurses to address a looming shortage in the field.
Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti emphasized the importance of nurses in the healthcare system, calling them “unsung heroes” whose skills and dedication keep healthcare operations running effectively.
Maryland is expected to face a 20% shortfall in nurses by 2036—amounting to roughly 14,700 vacancies—amid high turnover rates, evolving care models, and limited training pipelines. A recent report by the Maryland Hospital Association highlighted that one in four hospital nursing positions are currently unfilled.
Nurses are the backbone of patient care, often serving as the primary point of contact throughout a patient’s healthcare journey. The shortage impacts not just hospitals, but also clinics, federally qualified health centers, and schools.
To combat this crisis, the grants will fund a range of potential initiatives, including:
- Expanding nursing education and clinical training opportunities
- Offering scholarships and loan forgiveness
- Testing flexible work schedules and career development tracks
- Launching mentorship programs for new nurses
- Improving compensation and benefits
- Rolling out targeted recruitment efforts
- Partnering with other organizations to develop workforce solutions
Statements from Healthcare Leaders
Kenneth A. Samet, President & CEO, MedStar Health
Expressed deep gratitude for the donation, calling it a transformational gift that underscores the essential role of nurses and ensures continued investment in their future.
LynnMarie Verzino, Chief Nursing Officer, MedStar Health
Highlighted the impact nurses have on patient lives and emphasized the importance of continued support for their critical work.
David N. Maine, President & CEO, Mercy Health Services
Thanked the Foundation and Ravens for their generosity, noting the grant would enhance nursing education and prepare future leaders to serve Baltimore’s communities.
Mohan Suntha, President & CEO, UMMS
Acknowledged the donation’s role in advancing nursing efforts across the system and praised nurses for their integral role in community health.
Kevin W. Sowers, President, Johns Hopkins Health System
Discussed plans to expand a virtual nursing platform that will enhance inpatient safety and provide real-time mentorship for new nurses, aiming to restore passion in nursing and create a scalable model for the future.
