CMU alumna and her husband pave a path for future nurses

As an open-heart surgery nurse for almost 25 years, Lorri Oreolt, ’74, knows the immense need for health care professionals, particularly in rural areas. Having been a first-generation college student, she also has a passion for helping young people pursue their dreams to become nurses.

These were the driving factors behind the Lorri and Steven Oreolt Nursing Scholarship, established by Lorri and her husband. The scholarship, created through a generous donation and legacy gift totaling $435,000, will support students who are interested and actively involved in advancing the needs of populations historically underrepresented in higher education, and who are pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree at CMU.

“I would like to see people who do not have the means — but have the ambition and medical capacity — to get their degrees and then work in rural areas where communities need them,” Lorri said.

Growing up in Saginaw, Lorri feels a deep emotional connection to her Native American heritage. She chokes up talking about her background and how significant her roots are to her identity and life journey. This heritage plays an important role in the criteria for the couple’s new scholarship.

Lorri earned her teaching degree from CMU and spent several years in the classroom after graduating. However, she then discovered her true calling was in nursing. After the Oreolts relocated to Springfield, Illinois, Lorri returned to school and completed a four-year nursing degree.

“Nursing isn’t just a profession, I really do believe it is a calling,” she said.

Steven, an Ohio native, spent much of his career as a business consultant. After consulting with Florida’s largest public hospital system for three years, he had his own perspective on the need for nurses.

“Lorri is looking at the scholarship from an education and needs perspective, while I’m looking at it from a process perspective. The four-year degree provides the foundation for nurses to think critically, to think through what their options are,” he said. “As Lorri and my work backgrounds are different and come together, so do our thoughts on the scholarship.” 

Jennifer Cotter, CMU vice president for Advancement, said she and her team are inspired by the Oreolt’s passion for advancing the nursing profession.

“Lorri and Steven’s unique experiences with the health care system, along with Lorri’s passion for CMU, are a perfect fit with our new nursing program,” Cotter said. “Students who may not have been able to attend college to be nurses will now have that opportunity thanks to the Oreolts. I can’t wait to see the difference these students make in our communities.”

Maroon and gold pride

Lorri was incredibly excited to learn CMU was launching a nursing program.

“It’s going to end up blossoming further and further, and the more people you touch, the better it is,” she said.

Lorri and Steven cheer on the CMU Chippewas during televised sporting events and often attend alumni events in and around Tampa, Florida, where they now live.

“I take my CMU mug with me everywhere I go and often hear people yell, “Fire Up Chips,” Lorri said.