The Midwives KAN project is dedicated to increasing the number of Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) across Kansas and the Midwest, with a particular focus on individuals from diverse, disadvantaged and underrepresented backgrounds. 

The project also aims to support midwives who serve rural and underserved populations. One of the cornerstones to the project is the invaluable contribution of high-quality preceptors.

Bridget Robinson, APRN, Mosaic Life Care

"Taking on a nurse-midwife student can be a daunting task. It disrupts your normal routine and is more time-consuming," said Robinson. "However, one benefit to me is that it drives me to be a better nurse-midwife."

Bridget’s reflections highlight the reciprocal value of preceptorship. By mentoring aspiring midwives, preceptors not only contribute to the growth of the profession but also refine their own practice and broaden their perspectives.

Building Stronger Communities Through Preceptorship

Precepting goes beyond training; it forges a pipeline for recruiting skilled CNMs and strengthens partnerships within communities. Hosting a midwifery student offers tangible benefits, particularly for practices in rural, urban and tribal underserved areas. Through the Midwives KAN project preceptors in these settings may receive stipends of up to $4,500 annually, further recognizing their pivotal role.

Driven by Passion, Not Just Incentives

Most preceptors engage in mentorship out of a deep commitment to midwifery and a passion for cultivating the next generation of midwives. While stipends provide support, the driving force behind their efforts is often their love for the profession and a desire to empower students who will go on to serve diverse communities.

"When I precept, I find myself doing a better job of keeping up with current guidelines and spending time not only teaching students but also being a better teacher for my patients," said Robinson. "Students bring new insights and perspectives that I may not always see."

A Heartfelt Thank You

To all our preceptors: your dedication, expertise, and compassion are at the heart of our mission. You inspire and shape the future of midwifery, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Interested in becoming a preceptor? Learn how you can contribute to the next generation of CNMs while enhancing your own professional journey. Together, we can make a lasting impact.

Learn more about Graduate Nurse Training Scholarships.

This MIDWIVES KAN project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $1.24 million with 0 percentage financed with non-governmental sources. MIDWIVES KAN project period runs from 09/30/2023 to 09/29/2027. The contents are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information visit HRSA.gov.