JoAnn LaCour was a life-long Alaskan resident who dedicated her life to her family and the nursing profession. In loving memory, her family created this scholarship foundation which is aimed primarily at providing educational assistance to  Alaskan students indicating a desire to pursue a career in the nursing field, and demonstrating the potential for successful completion. 

Scholastic achievement will be a strong consideration in the selection process, but also to be weighed are the applicant's financial need, state residency, and how realistic their educational goals and future plans appear to be. Prior recipients and applicants are eligible to re-apply.