GIFTS AT WORK: Dr. Carol A. Beals Kruger

Carol Beals Kruger, M.D., (CON BSN '72) began her career in health care in 1960 as a Diploma Nurse, at the then Polyclinic Hospital in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She later moved to Battle Creek, Michigan to work in the Post Hospital. Recognizing the importance of having a baccalaureate degree, she decided to commute to Michigan State University to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She graduated from the School of Nursing at Michigan State University in 1972 and then went on to receive a Doctor of Medicine from the College of Human Medicine in 1976.

After completing a Rheumatology fellowship through the School of Medicine at the University of Michigan in 1981, Carol opened an office in Lansing to treat arthritis, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease as well as other conditions. Today she is President of the Beals Institute, a healthcare provider which specializes in providing care for these conditions throughout the greater Lansing area.

Carol was married to the late Daniel Kruger, distinguished professor emeritus at Michigan State University, who died of cancer in 2003. Honoring Carol’s service and dedication to the university, the Lansing community, the State of Michigan and beyond, Daniel, along with friends and family members established the Carol Robinson Beals Nursing Endowed Scholarship in 2002.  

This scholarship has served as a perpetuate symbol of Carol’s commitment to nursing excellence at Michigan State University. It provides financial assistance to undergraduate students on a basis of academic achievement. Recipients must maintain a minimum 3.3 grade point average. Preference is given to students who are permanent residents of a rural area in the state of Michigan, but residents from the greater Midwest are also eligible for consideration.

“I chose a career in nursing because it challenges me intellectually, while allowing me to care for others,” said Mia Jones, recipient of the 2007 award. “I have so many goals to accomplish and I believe that if I take it one step at a time, everything will fall into place.” Jones feels that this scholarship has been an indispensable help in her nursing education. She plans to continue her education by attending graduate school and possibly becoming a Nurse Practitioner.

Carol A. Beals Kruger continues to make a difference.