About the Scholarship

The Nevada Lactation Hub Scholarship Program is a collaborative effort between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition (NVBC) funded by the Nevada State Department of Health and Human Services through Grant #SG-2024-00407 (PI:
Dr. Buccini).

The scholarship program’s goal has been to increase and diversify the next generation of the lactation workforce in Nevada from 2024- November 2026. The scholarship consisted of 3 levels. The first level for those who would like to be a peer supporter, the second level for those pursuing their lactation certification, and level 3 for those on track to become an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) through IBLCE pathway 3. So far, we have awarded 61 scholarships. The final round of applications for this program takes place January 5, 2026-February 6, 2026. 15 scholarships for the below organizations will be awarded:

  • Certified Breastfeeding Specialist (CBS) -9 scholarships available. Learn more about the CBS credential and training here.
  • Full Spectrum Lactation Educator (FLSE)- 6 scholarships available. Learn more about the FLSE credential and training here.

Who is Eligible to Apply

Who is Eligible to Apply for level 1 and level 2:

  • Must currently live in Nevada and have plans to utilize their lactation credential to serve families in NV.
  • Applicants do not have to be a student at UNLV or UNR.
  • You may apply for different scholarship levels at different cycles.
  • Must be able to complete the course within 6 months
  • Undocumented applicants are welcome to apply

Who is Eligible to Apply for Level 3:

  • Have a full understanding of what the IBCLC credential entails and the full process of becoming an IBCLC. IBLCE pathway 3.
  • Have your 95+ hours of lactation-specific training completed before applying.
  • Be on Pathway 3 and understand the Pathway 3 requirements and time commitment .
  • Available at least 4-5 paid hours a week to complete in-person clinical experience and assignments. You will be paid for your weekly hours.
  • Willing to complete the requirements of being in a clinical setting upon start date (i.e. transportation to and from) and the cost associated (i.e. $100-$400). Such as receiving immunizations, background checks, fingerprinting, etc.
  • Engage and volunteer with the breastfeeding coalition throughout the year. Such as attending the monthly meetings, hosting support groups, and/or supporting events.
  • Complete an interview.
  • Be available to start paid hours starting May 1, 2025.

How is the Candidate Selected

The scholarship application will be open for one month.

In the application be prepared to describe your goals and experience, how you would use your training, and your commitment to inclusion.

A committee of UNLV SPH and Coalition board members and\or Chief Mentors will be assembled to review applicants.

Preferred candidates will have the following:

  • Should demonstrate a passion for increasing Nevada’s breast/chestfeeding rates.
  • Should demonstrate dedication to inclusiveness and anti-racism.
  • Should demonstrate a passion for working with under-resourced populations in Nevada.
  • Should be open to engaging in the Southern or Northern Nevada breast/chestfeeding support groups.
  • Should become a member of the Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition (membership fees will be waived).

How is the Scholarship Awarded

  • The Awardees will provide information on the lactation training, which will be paid directly to the organization.
  • The Awardees will receive specialized support from the UNLV School of Public Health project coordinator to select and successfully complete the course within 6 months.

How to Apply for 2024-2026

The Application will be available on January 5, 2026.

Click here to apply

The selection process is as follows:

Step 1. Application: Applications open from January 5, 2026, to February 6, 2026.

Step 2. Applicants will be notified of whether or not they were selected by March 1, 2026 The scholarship program commitment begins by March 15, 2026.

Step 3. Results: Applicants will be notified of whether they were selected by September 30, 2025. The level 3 program commitment begins October 1, 2025.

For more details on the scholarship and how to apply, register to attend our information session on Friday, January 9, 2026, from 12-1 p.m using the link here. Must register to attend. If you cannot attend, register for the info session, and the recording will be sent to all registrants.

If you cannot attend, register for the info session, and the recording will be sent to all registrants.

Award Stipulations

Awardees must currently live in the state of Nevada and have plans to continue to live here for the next 2 years.

Recipients give UNLV the right to publish their name and use the applicant’s likeness in a photograph in any of its publications, including website entries, without payment or any other consideration. These materials will become the property of UNLV and will not be returned. Recipients grant UNLV the authority to edit, alter, copy, publish, or distribute this photo to publicize UNLV’s programs or for any other lawful purpose.

The Nevada Lactation Hub Scholarship Program is a collaborative effort between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) and the Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition, funded by the Nevada State Department of Health and Human Services through Grant #SG-2024-00407.

If there are any questions please contact Rikki Jenkins at rikki.jenkins@unlv.edu.