Dr. Richard Nau invests $3 million to secure the future of PeaceHealth St. John Mentorship Program

LONGVIEW, Wash. — A belief in the power of opportunity has inspired one of the largest gifts in PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center Foundation's history.

Dr. Richard Nau has committed $3 million to establish the PeaceHealth St. John Mentorship Program Endowment, creating permanent funding for a program that has helped local high school students discover careers in healthcare for nearly three decades.

For Dr. Nau, the gift is deeply personal. Dr. Nau’s own path was shaped by both hard work and opportunity. After losing his mother at age 2, he grew up in a working-class family and earned a scholarship after excelling during his first year of college. He worked throughout college and medical school and served as an Army second lieutenant during his final year of medical school. Those experiences shaped his belief that opportunity can open doors, but success comes from what someone does with it  — a philosophy he sees reflected in the Mentorship Program. 

“I was fortunate to have opportunities that helped me continue my education, but I also had to work hard to make the most of them,” Dr. Nau said. “I believe success gives us the opportunity to do good for others. These students are working toward their own success, and I’m pleased to open a door for them along the way.”

Founded nearly 30 years ago by Sister Rose, the PeaceHealth St. John Mentorship Program introduces local high school students to careers in healthcare through meaningful work experience, professional mentorship and financial support for higher education. The program was created to remove barriers for students who may not otherwise have access to professional career exploration or college opportunities.

Until now, the program has relied on annual funding to continue operating. Dr. Nau's endowed gift creates long-term stability, allowing PeaceHealth to confidently invest in the program's future. The endowment will allow the program to return to a balanced cohort of six juniors and six seniors, creating additional leadership opportunities as senior students mentor incoming juniors.

"For nearly 30 years, this program has opened doors for students who simply needed someone to believe in their potential," said Michelle Domenico, who leads the Mentorship Program. "In a time when healthcare organizations face increasing pressure on operating budgets, Dr. Nau's generosity helps ensure this program will continue opening those doors for the next generation of leaders."

Students gain far more than exposure to healthcare careers. They learn workplace professionalism, build confidence, develop meaningful relationships with caregivers and receive financial support as they pursue higher education. Participants may earn up to $8,000 in scholarships, along with deferred income through the program, helping make college more affordable—particularly for students attending Lower Columbia College.

The investment also strengthens PeaceHealth's future workforce. Many mentorship students continue working at St. John while attending college, allowing them to gain valuable experience within the PeaceHealth culture as they prepare for careers in healthcare.

The program's impact extends well beyond graduation. While approximately 80 percent of students in Cowlitz County graduate from high school, participants in the Mentorship Program have achieved a 99 percent graduation rate. Alumni continue to complete bachelor's degrees at high rates, with an increasing number pursuing master's degrees and returning to serve their communities.

By establishing a permanent endowment, Dr. Nau has done more than sustain a successful program. He has created a lasting legacy that will continue opening doors for students, strengthening the local healthcare workforce and expanding access to opportunities for generations to come.

About PeaceHealth Foundations: PeaceHealth, based in Vancouver, Wash., is a non-profit Catholic health system offering care to communities in Washington, Oregon and Alaska. Since 1890, PeaceHealth has been guided by a Mission of healing and compassion. Today, PeaceHealth Foundations carry forward that legacy — powered by philanthropy and grounded in community. As the philanthropic partner to PeaceHealth’s nine medical centers and more than 160 clinics, we help expand access, advance technology and empower caregivers to provide exceptional and compassionate care. Every gift ensures that outstanding care continues to reach families, friends and neighbors throughout the Northwest. Today, PeaceHealth is the legacy of the founding Sisters and continues with a spirit of respect, stewardship, collaboration and social justice in fulfilling its Mission. Discover the impact of philanthropy at peacehealth.org/foundation.