Grant to ‘HELP’ University of Rochester Staff Advance in Careers, Fill Key Healthcare Roles

The University of Rochester has been awarded a $3.8 million, five-year Healthcare Education and Life-Skills Program (HELP) grant from New York State to expand career opportunities for employees while filling some of its most high-demand positions. 

URochester is among 21 organizations to receive HELP funding, which was announced in September 2025. It will use the funding to boost its existing Career Pathways Program (URCP) by providing additional assistance—including full tuition coverage—and other resources for eligible employees on track to become surgical technologists, radiologic technologists, or dental assistants. 

New benefits for URCP-enrolled staff include paid work or release time and career coaching. The program also makes emergency funding available for unexpected expenses like housing, transportation, childcare, or food that could create obstacles to success. 

URCP has retained 78 percent of its graduates in mostly clinical roles since it launched in 2022. Over the next five years, URochester plans to double the enrollment in the Career Pathways Program. 

“As a leading employer in the community, we are dedicated to strengthening and fostering career advancement of our staff,” said David Linehan, MD, CEO of University of Rochester Medical Center. “A highly skilled and passionate workforce is critical to upholding our commitment to the health of our community. This grant will help us expand career pathway programs to ensure our workforce can grow professionally, which is fundamental to our mission to help people live their healthiest lives.”

Career Pathways also reflects URochester’s commitment to building a strong internal talent pipeline while supporting employees in reaching their professional goals.

“We’re focused on equipping our staff with the resources, guidance and opportunities to grow within the University,” said Kathy Gallucci, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. “By investing in our people, we’re not only expanding career possibilities, we’re strengthening our workforce for the future and enhancing the care and service we provide.” 

Read the full grant announcement.