The CAHME/Olin Oedekoven Most Improved Student Scholarship

The CAHME/Olin Oedekoven Most Improved Student Scholarship recognizes a student who has demonstrated exceptional growth and improvement during their graduate studies in healthcare management. This scholarship is made possible through CAHME’s long-standing partnership with Peregrine Global Services—a global leader in higher education services providing online assessment and instructional solutions to more than 500 institutions worldwide—and the Peregrine Global Foundation, which funds this scholarship. Peregrine Global Services’ generosity over the years has supported key CAHME initiatives that serve our mission to advance the quality of healthcare management education, including the upcoming CAHME Boot Camp on March 1, 2026.

A Legacy of Leadership

Dr. Olin O. Oedekoven founded Peregrine Global Services in 2002 after serving in various military, academic, and government leadership roles. What began as a small business focused on leadership development grew into a global education technology company under his vision and guidance.

A lifelong learner and decorated veteran, Dr. Oedekoven believed in creating scalable, values-driven solutions that empower individuals and institutions to grow. His commitment to quality, innovation, and integrity laid the foundation for everything we do today.

“Choose the harder right over the easier wrong. That is the essence of integrity.”
~ Olin O. Oedekoven

CAHME Application Portal

Eligibility

  • Student in CAHME Accredited or Certified Program

  • Nominations must be made by the students Program Director, or a faculty member on behalf of the University Program Director.

  • Application submitted by December 8, 2025

What You Need To Apply

  • Program Director Contact Information
  • University Information
  • Student Nominee Contact Information

Overview of Scholarship

Nominees for this award exemplify perseverance, self-reflection, and a commitment to continuous learning—qualities that reflect Dr. Olin Oedekoven’s belief in personal and professional development. Applicants are encouraged to share how they have experienced meaningful change and how that transformation has shaped their path as a healthcare leader.

    Nomination Essays

    The nomination consists of five essays of no more than 250 words (limit to 1,250 characters) each. One essay will be completed by the Program Director and four essays will be completed by the student. We recommend typing your essay responses in a saved document outside of the online application in case of technical difficulties. You may copy and paste from your personal document to the online application when you are ready.

    1. Program Director: In approximately 250 words or less, explain what makes this student an ideal candidate to receive a CAHME scholarship? (If you are nominating this student to multiple scholarships, you can copy this response.)
    2. Student: In approximately 250 words or less, describe a significant change you experienced in the past year in terms of personal growth or academic achievement. What motivated this change, and what did you learn from the experience?
    3. Student: In approximately 250 words or less, explain how this transformation has influenced your peers or the greater community. In what ways has it shaped your development as a healthcare leader?
    4. Student: In approximately 250 words or less, explain why you need this scholarship and how you will use the funds to continue advancing your education, professional development, and ability to create meaningful change in healthcare.

    Award Details

    Award Includes

    • One-time scholarship of $10,000.00
    • One complimentary ticket to the CAHME Awards Ceremony on March 1, 2026, at ACHE Congress
    • Travel support is provided for designated costs
    • Recognition on CAHME’s website and social media

    2025 Award Recipient

    I envision driving momentum in healthcare by focusing on patient-centered initiatives and improving healthcare processes. Through collaborative leadership and a commitment to continuous improvement, I aim to enhance the quality of care and expand access to diverse communities.

    Merry Jiang

    Johns Hopkins University, MHA

    For More Information:

    Dana Alexander, MHA
    Communications and Engagement Manager
    301-298-1820 ext. 6
    dalexander@cahme.org