2025 Scholarship Recipients

Celebrating Achievement, Supporting the Future of Nursing and Health Care in Alberta

It all begins with nurses — the heart of healthcare. Their compassion, dedication, and commitment to learning guide them on a journey of growth, shaping not only their own futures but also the future of patient care. Through education and experience, they continue to strengthen their skills, deepen their compassion, and inspire us all as they become even better nurses for tomorrow

Stephanie Campbell: (Karen Polowick Scholarship) grew up on a farm in (east-Central) Alberta, raised by her grandparents. It was her grandmother who first taught her the meaning of care and compassion—lessons that would later shape her path as a nurse.After completing her first degree in biology, Stephanie felt called to do more. She entered nursing, and after graduating, took her skills across the world to Africa (Zambia), where she not only worked as a nurse meeting the needs of patients but also taught at an associated nursing program and lectured future nurses.Today, Stephanie lives on a ranch in Diamond Valley, Alberta, raising three boys and continuing her work in emergency and preventative care. At age 40, she made a huge decision to enter the NP Masters program where she brings wisdom, life experience, and heart to everything she does. Alongside her clinical work, Stephanie has served as a clinical tutor for nursing students at Mount Royal University and led the education program for her rural staff as a Clinical Nurse Educator at Oilfields General Hospital. Now pursuing her Master’s in the Nurse Practitioner program, Stephanie is set to graduate in 2026. Her goal? To make a lasting impact in Alberta’s rural communities—where NPs are needed most. We're proud to support nurses like Stephanie—rooted in community, driven by purpose, and shaping the future of healthcare.

Crystal Charbonneau: CWB Wealth Indigenous Health Scholarship. Crystal is a Nurse Practitioner student at Athabasca University and a full-time nurse manager in the First Nations community of Whitefish Lake (Goodfish Lake). With nearly two decades of diverse clinical experience—from ICU to public health—she brings a comprehensive, compassionate approach to care. Deeply committed to health equity, she has led transformative initiatives including in-community lab services and STBBI test-and-treat programs, improving access and outcomes for vulnerable populations. Her vision as a future Primary Care Nurse Practitioner is to deliver culturally sensitive, community-based care rooted in Indigenous teachings and traditions. By incorporating holistic models like the medicine wheel—which values the spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical aspects of wellness—she strives to support long-term health and healing for Indigenous patients. Through advocacy and relationship-building, she continues to work toward closing gaps in care and advancing truth and reconciliation in healthcare across Alberta.

Katie Lohse CHF Scholarship recipient. Katie’s journey into nursing began early, when she volunteered with the ambulance service as a teenager. Inspired by the fast-paced, team-based environment, she went on to pursue nursing through the conjoint program between Athabasca University and Mount Royal in 2009. After graduating as a registered nurse, Katie built her career in neurosurgery, burns, and plastics before discovering her true passion in the ICU in 2013. With a deep love for teaching, Katie is now advancing her career through the Master of Nursing ladder pathway. She is especially drawn to palliative and end-of-life care, where compassion and education are at the heart of every interaction. Looking ahead, she hopes to combine her love of bedside teaching with a formal role as a nurse educator, helping to guide and inspire the next generation of nurses.

Anna Hackman: (belairdirect Nurse Practitioner Student Scholarship). Anna is a registered nurse at Misericordia NICU, currently pursuing advanced studies to become a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner (NNP). With charge and resuscitation training, she works closely with NNPs and values their integral role in neonatal care. Passionate about patient advocacy, family-integrated care, and addressing social determinants of health, she strives to provide the highest standard of care to vulnerable neonates and their families. Drawing from her background in provincial policy, she embraces nursing leadership and mentorship, aiming to influence both clinical practice and healthcare policy. Her goal is to work as a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner, advancing neonatal care and improving outcomes for Albertans.

Joshua Gallup: (belairdirect NP student scholarship). Joshua Gallup is an accomplished nurse practitioner student with a strong background in critical care. After graduating from MacEwan University in 2014, he pursued a Master of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Alberta, where his research focused on the spinal cord and mapping neurons related to movement. While he valued the academic experience, he felt the work lacked the practical, hands-on impact he was seeking. Driven to make a difference at the bedside and in the community, he graduated from the University of Alberta’s Nursing After Degree Program in 2019. He began working in the ICU immediately after graduation. Joshua’s career quickly flourished. At the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, he specialized in critical care, serving as an ECMO specialist, mentor, and assisting with clinical education. His experience spans the CVICU, CCU, Neurosciences ICU, and General Systems ICU, giving him a broad and deep perspective on patient care. Coming from a family of healthcare professionals—his Grandmother was a nurse, and his Mother continues to practice as a nurse—Joshua has always been inspired to combine compassion with excellence in practice. Now, as a Master of Nursing – Nurse Practitioner student, Joshua is building the clinical skills to complement his strong academic and research background. His thesis focuses on developing and validating a Cardiac Surgery Frailty Index to improve post-operative outcomes and guide interventions across Alberta. Passionate about rural health and primary care, he plans to pursue a PhD at the University of Alberta and continue his journey as a clinician-scientist, advancing healthcare through both research and practice. Joshua is an exceptional emerging leader, and we look forward to the impact he will continue to make in nursing, research, and patient care across Alberta and beyond.

Stephanie Milliken: (Karen Polowick Scholarship) Stephanie is a dedicated nurse, educator, and mother who brings remarkable heart and skill to her work—while raising a toddler and preparing to welcome twins! A U of A Nursing graduate, Stephanie began her career in rural care in Lamont, Alberta, where she developed a deep appreciation for the unique challenges and rewards of serving rural communities. Her path has taken her through roles in neurosurgery, general systems ICU during the COVID-19 pandemic, IV therapy/ACC and clinical teaching at the U of A. Today, she’s part of the ER team at Strathcona community hospital, working part-time while completing her Nurse Practitioner education. Stephanie has a passion for pathophysiology, bedside support, diagnostic reasoning, and leadership. She is driven to address the real-world challenges nurses face every day, especially in underserved areas. Her commitment to advancing patient care—while balancing the demands of motherhood and graduate studies—is nothing short of inspiring.

Besy Chandray: (Karen Polowick Scholarship) Besy’s journey is a remarkable testament to perseverance, purpose, and heart. Originally from El Salvador, Besy immigrated to Canada many years ago in search of a better life for her family. She began her life in a new country working in housekeeping, all while raising her children and navigating the challenges of a new culture and language. Despite the obstacles, Besy always carried a deep sense that she was meant for more—something that would allow her to care for others on a deeper level. That calling led her to nursing. With courage and determination, Besy went back to school. It wasn’t easy balancing work, studies, and motherhood, but her resolve never wavered. After becoming a nurse, Besy worked her way up step by step, never turning away from a challenge. She served in many different units, gaining experience, wisdom, and resilience in every role she held. Each position taught her something new—about the system, about people, and about herself. Today, Besy is a respected hospital director and nurse leader. Her story inspires not only the nurses she mentors but also anyone who has ever dared to chase a dream. Known for her compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication, Besy is a teacher, a guide, and a role model for the next generation of healthcare professionals. She came from nothing, and through hard work, heart, and hope, she has flourished into someone truly extraordinary. Besy embodies what it means to lead with purpose—and her journey reminds us all that no dream is too far out of reach.

Devonne Brandys: (Karen Polowick Scholarship ) Coming from humble beginnings and overcoming a challenging childhood, Devonne built a remarkable path for herself — truly making something out of nothing. She earned her first degree in Political Science with a focus in Global Health at the University of Alberta and went on to work in public health research guiding clinical studies and developing best practice guidelines. Today, she’s focused on infectious diseases, working in infection Control while pursuing her NP program at the University of Saskatchewan @usasknursing . She is excited to be part of a profession dedicated to patient-centered care and driven to provide care to those most vulnerable. She hopes in this way she will help to make a positive difference in the world. Devonne is deeply committed to improving healthcare for all Albertans, with a special focus on expanding access and addressing barriers to care. With her compassion, determination, and leadership, we know she will make a lasting difference in the health and well-being of our communities.

Nicolle Carr: (Dr. Shannon Spenceley Lethbridge Legacy Scholarship) From the very start of her career, Nicolle C. has been a nurse with heart, determination, and an unwavering commitment to care. Nicolle began her nursing journey right out of high school at the University of Calgary, launching into a career that first took her into palliative care, medical-surgical nursing, and then public health. Life took her to Lethbridge, where Nicolle shifted her focus to raising her family — spending 15 years as a dedicated stay-at-home mom and even homeschooling her children. An incredible accomplishment on its own, but Nicolle’s passion for mental health and addictions never faded. When the time was right, she stepped back into the field with purpose, working as a registered nurse in Claresholm in addiction services. She then worked as a mental health therapist at Health Link, before moving into the role of Clinical Supervisor, and then Clinical Manager, supporting a team of addiction and mental health therapists and their clients across the province. Driven to make a meaningful difference, Nicolle earned her Master of Clinical Social Work and is now pursuing her Master of Nursing at the University of Lethbridge, focusing on nursing education, addiction and mental health. A certified psychiatric mental health nurse, Nicolle is a tireless advocate for mental health care, especially for increasing the number of registered nurses in this vital area. Today, she’s balancing graduate studies, her professional practice, and family— always going above and beyond to ensure the people and communities she serves get the best care possible. Her dedication, passion, and leadership are exactly what this legacy was meant to celebrate.

Daniel Stuart (Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship) For Daniel, the path to nursing was anything but conventional. Influenced by his mother, who worked as a nurse clinician for 35 years, Daniel always admired the compassion and skill that defined her career. But when it came time to choose his own path, he initially pursued a very different direction—earning a degree in mechanical engineering. After graduating, Daniel quickly realized engineering wasn’t the right fit. He began searching for a career that matched his passions and values, leading him to spend more than four years working with Lululemon and teaching yoga and fitness. During that time, he developed a love for health, wellness, and helping people—sparking the realization that nursing might be his true calling. Determined to follow this new path, Daniel completed the Accelerated Bachelor of Nursing Program in just two years, graduating in December 2020—right at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. He began his career in coronary care, spending eight months at the CCU before being redeployed to support COVID care in the ICU. There, he worked as a secondary nurse in collaboration with staff ICU nurses who provided invaluable mentorship that helped shape his practice. Now working permanently in ICU, Daniel has found a specialty he deeply loves. The intensity, urgency, and collaboration of critical care fuel his “get it done” mindset and allow him to thrive under pressure. He is especially drawn to cardiology and inspired by the nurse practitioners he has worked alongside, who demonstrate the critical thinking and leadership he hopes to emulate in his own career. Daniel is currently pursuing graduate studies to become a nurse practitioner. He believes his strengths—staying calm in high-stress situations, making quick but informed decisions, and collaborating seamlessly with others—will help him excel in this advanced role. For Daniel, nursing brings together his passion for people, his love of challenge, and his desire to make a meaningful impact at the most critical moments in patients’ lives.

Pam Hurst Calgary Health Foundation scholarship. Pam has dedicated over 24 years to the nursing profession, including an impressive 19 years specializing in emergency nursing. Her career has spanned both urban and rural settings, with significant contributions at Alberta Children’s Hospital and High River Hospital Emergency. Pam has also served in the following roles: Rural South Home Care Team – 6 years serving the communities of Okotoks, High River, Nanton, and Claresholm, Assistant Head Nurse/Team Lead – Pediatric Home Care Team, Calgary Care Manager – Seniors North Home Care Team, Calgary. Now as Alberta Health Services’ Pediatric Home Care Manager, she plays a pivotal role in establishing and leading the team, demonstrating her expertise in both urban and rural nursing care. Pam’s passion for nursing extends beyond bedside care. As a charge nurse, she embraced leadership opportunities, learning how to voice concerns and advocate for improved patient care. This commitment to making a meaningful difference inspired her to pursue a Master of Nursing at the University of Calgary, with focuses in Leadership for Health System Transformation and Healthcare Innovation and Design.

Oluchi Akaranta (Ify) Gayle Hissett Memorial Scholarship. Ify grew up in Nigeria, West Africa, as the youngest of four children in a close-knitted family of six. Surrounded by strong values of resilience, generosity, and service, she learned early that meaningful achievement requires perseverance. At 17, she moved to Canada to pursue her long-standing dream of becoming a nurse, a dream fueled by her desire to contribute to the overall well-being of humanity. Upon graduating from nursing in 2016, Ify began her career in rural Alberta, working in High Level across labour and delivery, the operating room, and several inpatient units. She also served as a charge nurse, gaining a deeper understanding of the systemic challenges faced by remote communities and the impact of limited resources on patient outcomes. These experiences solidified her dedication to advancing equitable access to care, regardless of location. When she later returned to Calgary, Ify joined the emergency department at the Peter Lougheed Centre, where she continues to build her clinical expertise. She is passionate about supporting the next generation of nurses, through mentoring nursing students and new graduates, and contributing to community outreach initiatives in her church. Her commitment to service, advocacy, and lifelong learning is evident in every role she takes on. Now pursuing her Nurse Practitioner degree at Athabasca University, Ify is working toward a future where preventive health is prioritized and care is accessible to all. Her long-term vision includes establishing a nonprofit aimed at improving health equity across underserved communities. With her compassion, leadership, and unwavering sense of purpose, Ify is well on her way to making a meaningful and lasting impact on healthcare in Alberta.

Rita Iradukunda Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship: Growing up in Malawi, she was shaped by a strong sense of community, compassion, and the importance of giving back. As a child, she witnessed the importance of giving back and caring for others. At 16, Rita moved to New Brunswick, carrying with her the resilience and lessons of her upbringing. Later in Edmonton, a local nursing event inspired her passion for nursing and led her to apply to the U of A’s BScN program. Rita’s academic journey has been marked by dedication and excellence. (Honors Nursing Program) She conducted meaningful research on patients’ perspectives on dialysis — research she later presented at multiple conferences in AB and Germany. This experience deepened her appreciation for patient-centered care and reinforced her desire to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard. Rita later moved to Calgary in 2021 and began working in a Level III NICU. She loved bedside nursing and found immense purpose in caring for the most vulnerable patients. However, she soon realized that her impact could extend even further. In 2022, she took the next step in her journey by pursuing her dream of becoming a Nurse Practitioner, with a focus on preventative health. She also began to work in the PACU at Foothills Medical Center. Rita is passionate about advocating for immigrant women who may not fully access or utilize health resources such as prenatal vitamins, ultrasounds, or preventative screenings. Her capstone project explored pregnancy knowledge among women, emphasizing the importance of education and empowerment while remaining culturally respectful. Through her work, Rita strives to bridge gaps in healthcare access and promote understanding among diverse communities. While her focus has been on women’s health, Rita’s vision as a future NP extends to patients of all ages. She hopes to one day open her own clinic — a space dedicated to equitable, compassionate care for all. With her strong academic foundation, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to service, Rita embodies the spirit of nursing leadership and the power of giving back to society.

Susan Lussier Diane Davidson Memorial Scholarship. Susan has dedicated her life to advancing health care in Alberta and beyond. A graduate of the University of Calgary and Mount Royal’s Conjoint Nursing Program in 2003, Susan began her career in perioperative nursing, bringing skill and care to the operating room. Her passion for patient care took her as far as Australia, where she worked as a travel nurse in the OR, before returning home to contribute to the Calgary Alberta Children’s Hospital. In 2014, Susan’s interest in public health began to take shape. She spent four years serving as a generalist at the Stoney Health Centre, supporting the community with dedication and expertise. Her commitment to health care extended to Cochrane Public Health, and later became an integral member of Alberta’s COVID-19 contact tracing team, helping protect communities during one of the most challenging times in recent history. Today, Susan works remotely with the Provincial Communicable Disease Team, part of Primary Care Alberta, investigating and reporting communicable diseases and ensuring Albertans remain safe. Never one to stop learning, Susan is now pursuing a Master’s of Nursing at the University of Lethbridge, specializing in education—an exciting milestone in her 50th year. Outside of her professional and academic endeavors, Susan is a devoted parent to two amazing children and enjoys spending time with her husband and dog exploring the mountains. Through her ongoing dedication, Susan exemplifies the qualities of a lifelong learner, a compassionate caregiver, and a passionate advocate for public health. Her work continues to make a meaningful impact on communities across Alberta, and her commitment inspires nurses everywhere to follow in her footsteps.

Shannon Wobschall (Gayle Hissett Memorial Scholarship) With 25 years of nursing experience, Shannon W has built a career rooted in compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment for supporting others. Currently based in the Mental Health and Addiction program with Recovery Alberta in Lethbridge - Shannon’s journey began after graduating from the Conjoint Nursing Program with the University of Calgary and Mount Royal College. Her career started as a staff nurse on the Inpatient Psychiatry unit of the Chinook Regional Hospital, where she continued to offer her expertise as a clinical nurse educator. She held many different positions along the way, working as a staff nurse for cadet camps with the Department of National Defense, Lethbridge Correctional Centre, and contract work at the Whitehorse General Hospital. Her passion for sharing knowledge led her to teach for the Lethbridge College in their RN and LPN programs. As a Clinical Nurse Educator for 10 years, Shannon became a trusted role model—welcoming countless new nurses, helping them feel confident in their abilities, and fostering a supportive learning environment. Honest, approachable, and deeply committed to mentoring, she has always believed in empowering the next generation of nurses. Today, Shannon continues her work as an educator for Recovery Alberta, concentrating on trauma-informed practice and care. She focuses not only on patient outcomes but also on staff well-being, recognizing that healthy, supported teams deliver the best care. Her leadership in e-simulation has helped prepare teams for real-world challenges, and she now pursues her Master of Nursing at the University of Lethbridge. With her depth of experience, ongoing research, and unwavering passion, Shannon will continue to be an incredible asset to Recovery Alberta.

Mindy Helsch Sisters of Service Scholarship Mindy began her nursing journey at Mount Royal University, where she graduated as a Registered Nurse. As a generalist, she worked across many areas including emergency, labour and delivery, and acute care at the Rocky Mountain House Hospital. She also shared her knowledge with the next generation of nurses by mentoring and teaching students. Through her experience, Mindy noticed the important role nurse practitioners play in providing care—particularly in rural communities where resources are limited. Inspired to make an even greater impact, she pursued further studies at the University of Saskatchewan, enrolling in the Nurse Practitioner program. Mindy believes that nurse practitioners are vital to ensuring rural populations receive equitable care, and she is passionate about working with people holistically—considering the life factors that influence health and striving to provide the best care possible. Today, Mindy works at the Cochrane Community Health Centre in public health and postpartum services, where she continues to make a difference through her dedication and compassion. She is recognized as an outstanding nurse, and Alberta is proud to have her serving its communities.

Adrianna Rudderham Diane Davidson Memorial Scholarship Originally from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Adrianna R brought her East Coast heart and work ethic to Alberta almost 10 years ago — and she’s been making an impact ever since. After graduating as highest aggregate in her nursing class in 2016, Adrianna wasted no time advancing her career. She pursued her Master of Nursing at Athabasca University, fueling her passion for mental health and community care. By August of 2017, she had taken on a Nursing Instructor role at Keyano College, further deepening her expertise with mental health studies and a growing focus on psychiatry. Today, Adrianna works with the Fort McMurray Opioid Dependency Program through Recovery Alberta, where she provides critical support to people battling substance use. Her work is deeply personal and driven by a vision for change — especially when it comes to creating culturally safe care for Indigenous clients. Now working toward her Doctorate in Education, with a focus on Educational Leadership, Adrianna is dedicated to helping frontline healthcare providers become better equipped to deliver respectful, culturally safe care, starting from the very first point of contact. We are proud to support Adrianna on her incredible journey. Her commitment to advancing mental health care and cultural safety is shaping a better future for patients and healthcare teams alike.

Brittany Hollett Patricia Walker Scholarship. Brittany started her nursing career in British Columbia and has since built an impressive and inspiring career over multiple provinces, calling Alberta home for the past ten years. She remains deeply committed to improving patient care and advancing the nursing profession. Brittany has spent the majority of her career in the adult and pediatric ICU, where she discovered her passion for making a difference in the lives of patients and their families. She also spent time running the adult ECMO program before transitioning to an ECLS Primer role at the Stollery Children’s Hospital –  an experience she truly loved. Transitioning into a management role was a significant change for Brittany. Through this journey, she gained valuable insight into Alberta’s healthcare system and quickly recognized the disconnect between system-level decision-making and the realities of delivering patient care on the front line. Motivated to bridge that gap, she became a strong advocate for accountability in leadership and for developing national benchmarks that would standardize patient outcomes between provinces. ARNET is proud to have supported Brittany in both her Master of Nursing degree and now her MBA. While her research in her Master of Nursing degree explored how nurses can better support parents facing the end-of-life of a child in the pediatric ICU, her MBA thesis similarly identified areas for improvement in the broader healthcare system and presented tangible solutions for improvement. Having worked in multiple tertiary ICUs and now in a rural Emergency Department, Brittany has witnessed the stark contrast in resources and how these can profoundly affect patient outcomes. Her MBA thesis focused on highlighting the underlying reasons for longer wait times, improving access to healthcare in Indigenous and rural communities, and helping create a system where every patient in Alberta receives the same high standard of care — no matter where they live.

Michelle Rose William Godfrey Scholarship Michelle is a dedicated registered nurse and wound care team lead who has been serving the communities of Onoway and surrounding North Zone sites in Alberta for over 25 years. A proud graduate of the University of Alberta’s Bachelor of Nursing program in 1997, Michelle has built her career around delivering compassionate, expert care in a rural setting. Deeply passionate about wound and ostomy care, Michelle stepped into a newly created role that evolved alongside her growing expertise and leadership. Her commitment to addressing gaps in rural healthcare—particularly the lack of specialized wound care services—inspired her to pursue further education and Canadian Nurses Certification in the specialty. Now in her third year of the Nurse Practitioner program at Athabasca University, Michelle is focused on expanding her scope to meet the diverse and unmet needs of her community. Known for her strong leadership skills and clinical excellence, Michelle is a trusted provider of primary care and a respected voice in rural healthcare delivery. When she’s not caring for patients, she’s busy raising cattle with her family and supporting her two children—including her 18-year-old son and 16 year old daughter—as they carve out their own paths. Michelle is passionate about continuing to make a meaningful impact in rural Alberta, expanding access to care where it’s needed most.

Favour Okocha Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship. Originally from Nigeria, she immigrated alone to Canada as a young international student in 2010, driven by a passion to pursue higher education and a career in nursing. She began her studies at the International College of Manitoba before preparing for admission into nursing. In 2012, she was accepted into the U of C’s Bachelor of Nursing transfer program. Despite navigating cultural differences and the challenges of adjusting to a new country, she successfully balanced full-time studies while working as a health care aide. After graduation, Favour began working at the Peter Lougheed Hospital, later moving to High Level Health Centre where she gained experience across nearly every department. Her work ranged from labour and delivery to the emergency department, the operating room, postpartum, and even charge nurse duties. This breadth of experience gave her a well-rounded perspective and the confidence to care for patients in diverse and often challenging circumstances. In 2020, Favour returned to Peter Lougheed, once again serving in labour and delivery and emergency. By 2021, she expanded her skills through travel nursing assignments in both British Columbia and High Level where she also added pediatric nursing to her growing area of expertise. Her commitment to professional growth led her to begin the Nurse Practitioner program at the U of A, where she is currently in her third year part-time. Alongside her studies and clinical practice, Favour is passionate about mentorship. She supports nursing students through the U of C NurseMentor Program, contributes to the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association as a youth mentor helping newcomers find their footing in Canada, and serves as Co-Director of the MentorUS Graduate Students Club at the U of A. Through every stage of her career, Favour has been guided by one principle: ensuring that every patient in her care receives the best possible treatment. Alberta is fortunate to have a nurse like her—one who brings compassion, knowledge, and leadership to every setting she serves.

Kate Blackett Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship. Kate's journey into nursing began with a simple desire—to help people. Drawn to the rhythm of shift work and the fast-paced nature of healthcare, she quickly realized nursing was the perfect fit. Her background as a cross-country runner contributed to the discipline she applied to her studies, as she completed the collaborative nursing program between Red Deer College and the University of Alberta in 2012. Kate started her career at Olds Hospital, working in various departments. Support from colleagues and mentors encouraged her growing interest in emergency room nursing. This led her to work at urgent care at the Sheldon M. Chumir Health Centre, where she found the experience formative for her nursing practice. She enjoyed working with a diverse patient population and valued the opportunities the centre provided to develop her clinical skills and judgment. Her journey then led her to the ICU, where she works at the bedside and has taken on roles as both a charge nurse and a member of the Rapid Response team. Kate found fulfillment in working with critically ill patients and their families, appreciating the teamwork and focus required in intensive care. Noticing important gaps in both addiction and end-of-life care in the ICU, Kate pursued graduate certificates in these areas through the Laddered Certificate Pathway to the Master of Nursing program at the University of Calgary. Now in her third year of studies, she is focusing on developing improved approaches to end-of-life care for critical care settings. She intends to pursue Nurse Practitioner training after completing her master's, with the goal of continuing her work in critical care and supporting patient needs throughout Alberta.

Berenice Chan Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship Berenice’s nursing journey began when she graduated from the University of Calgary in 2014, carrying with her a deep desire to care for women across every stage of life. Her early career took her into gynecology and oncology—spaces where she witnessed not only medical challenges but also the incredible strength of the women she cared for. Later, in the pelvic floor clinic, Berenice saw firsthand how profoundly women’s quality of life could be improved with the right support. It was there that her passion sharpened into purpose. She knew more could be done. More compassion. More access. More care that truly understood the complexities of women’s health. Motivated by this vision, Berenice pursued her Nurse Practitioner studies at Athabasca University. Today, she’s expanding her practice into family health across all ages while continuing her work in pelvic floor care. She is thoughtfully considering where her next steps will take her—perhaps toward independent practice, perhaps toward a dedicated women’s health or menopausal care clinic. What she knows for certain is that she wants to be part-time in NP practice and full-time in improving women’s quality of life. Outside of her demanding academic and professional path, Berenice is a devoted mom to her daughter. Time with her family recharges her, reminds her why this work matters, and fuels her commitment to building a healthier future for women in Alberta.

Bailey McLellan Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship Originally from Okotoks, Bailey has been a dedicated nurse since 2017, when she graduated from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. Her nursing journey has taken her across both rural and urban settings, giving her a deep appreciation for the unique strengths—and significant challenges—faced by rural communities. Having spent the last six years at Foothills Medical Centre—a Level I trauma facility—working both as an inpatient trauma nurse and in the Emergency Department, Bailey has seen firsthand how geography can shape access to timely care and essential resources. Her experiences inspired her to pursue a Master’s degree, focusing on improving healthcare pathways across rural and urban centers. She is passionate about healthcare innovation and system design, with a vision to bridge the gap between these communities through technology and collaboration. Bailey hopes to integrate telehealth and virtual support systems into rural trauma and emergency care, ensuring that even the most remote patients can access expert guidance when it matters most. In the future, she aspires to take on a leadership role helping connect rural healthcare teams with specialists in real time. Beyond her professional ambitions, Bailey believes that every nurse has a role in advancing healthcare in Alberta, and she hopes to inspire others to contribute to that shared goal. Alberta is fortunate to have nurses like Bailey leading the way in our healthcare system.

Chelsea Simpkin Lynda Margaret Day Memorial Scholarship. Chelsea's nursing journey began far from where she is today—growing up in Yellowknife, she later moved to Grande Prairie to pursue a degree in exercise science. Although many expected her to enter the health and fitness field, Chelsea felt called to something different. Over 12 years ago, she followed her heart into nursing, and she’s never looked back. Now based in Lethbridge, Chelsea has built a diverse and impactful career, working in both acute care and outpatient cardiac care. Her passion lies in taking a holistic, patient-centred approach to healthcare. As a strong patient advocate, she believes deeply in the power of listening, empathy, and proactive support. Currently pursuing her Nurse Practitioner designation, Chelsea hopes to become one of the first NPs in southern Alberta working in her specialty. Her commitment to improving cardiac care and critical care is unwavering. This is exemplified not only through her clinical work but also through her extensive volunteer efforts. From fundraising initiatives to being actively involved in professional bodies, she continues to serve as a mentor and role model to others in the field. Chelsea’s leadership, advocacy, and vision for the future of healthcare make her an exceptional ambassador for nursing in Alberta. We’re proud to support her journey and can’t wait to see the impact she will continue to make.

Lana Munro belairdirect NP Scholarship. Your support is helping advance healthcare in Alberta — we’re so grateful for your commitment to making a difference. Congratulations to Lana - one of this years recipients. Lana’s path into nursing began with a degree in anthropology, where she developed a deep appreciation for human connection and the social determinants of health. That passion led her to pursue a Bachelor of Nursing and become a registered nurse. She began her career working on the in-patient transplant unit, where her skills and dedication quickly stood out. After 10 years working with inpatients and seeking a new challenge, Lana transitioned to the home peritoneal dialysis unit. There as a case manager, she enjoyed facilitating chronic disease self-management among her patients and their families. She now works with pre-dialysis patients on the CKD unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. A career totaling over 20 years in chronic disease management has made her a vital part of the kidney care team. Seeking new challenges in the primary care setting and inspired by the nurse practitioner in the Royal Alexandra Hospital’s kidney program, Lana has made the decision to further her education. She is now pursuing her nurse practitioner designation, driven by a passion in chronic disease prevention and management for Albertans.

Rupinder Bhuller Calgary Health Foundation Scholarship. Rupinder’s nursing journey spans continents and decades, driven by a deep commitment to improving care for others. She began her career in India, graduating in 2004, and continued her passion for healthcare after moving to Canada in 2006, completing Mount Royal University’s Bridge to Canadian Nursing program—both theoretical and clinical. In 2008, Rupinder began her Canadian nursing career at Peter Lougheed Centre in orthopedics - where she worked until 2011. She earned her Master’s degree in Nursing from the University of Calgary in 2024 before starting her Nurse Practitioner program. Her career then took her into home care management for older adults, where she witnessed firsthand the gaps in care for Alberta’s aging population. These experiences inspired her to pursue the NP program, recognizing the vital role Nurse Practitioners play in improving access, providing timely care, and enhancing quality of life for homebound and under-served patients. Rupinder’s vision is clear: to use her knowledge and expertise to make meaningful, immediate improvements in care for older adults across Alberta. She believes mobile, community-focused nurse practitioner care can bridge gaps in the system and ensure every patient receives the support and attention they need—wherever they are.

Heather Battle Calgary Health Foundation scholarship. Heather’s nursing journey began in 1990 when she graduated from the Foothills Hospital program and launched her career in cardiology. Her passion for patient care soon took her across the world, where she spent four years in Saudi Arabia working in cardiology/CV surgery. Upon returning to Canada, Heather’s career continued to grow and diversify. She worked as a Charge Nurse, Nurse Clinician, in the emergency department and later moved into Nursing Informatics. From there, she stepped into leadership roles, including Core Management of the Calgary Care Team Response, where she supported patients experiencing sexual assault and domestic violence. Alongside her professional journey, Heather also began working on an undergraduate degree in Health Administration. Life became even fuller when Heather became a mother to a son with special needs. Despite the challenges, she remained deeply committed to her career and continued to pursue her dreams. After parental leave, she worked at the Bone and Joint Clinic, on a surgical unit, and in leadership and management roles, where she discovered her true calling. Since 2020, she has served as the ER Program Department Manager, where she is dedicated to coaching, mentoring, and supporting her teams. Heather is now pursuing an MBA in Leadership and Health Care, further strengthening her ability to make a lasting impact.

Simin Popat Chris Lambert Memorial Scholarship Simin’s journey began in Tanzania, East Africa, where she was raised before moving to Edmonton 10 years ago. Her dream of becoming a nurse took root early, and after being accepted into the University of Alberta’s Nursing program, she graduated with honours and distinction — a reflection of her dedication and academic excellence. From the beginning of her nursing education, Simin felt deeply drawn to cardiac health. During her undergraduate studies, she contributed to research on pregnancy complications and their link to future cardiovascular risk — an early sign of her commitment to both women’s and heart health. She went on to work at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute on the inpatient cardiology unit, where she cared for patients with complex cardiac conditions and contributed to research at the Atrial Fibrillation Clinic, further deepening her passion for cardiovascular care. In 2024, Simin began her Nurse Practitioner (NP) studies, pursuing her goal not just as a next step, but as her long-standing vision. Her current research focuses on the connection between chronic diseases and menstrual irregularities — a powerful reflection of her commitment to advancing women’s health and addressing how women’s symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed. But Simin’s vision goes beyond her own practice. One of her greatest aspirations is to return to Tanzania and open a clinic dedicated to women’s health — offering care, education, and support that can be hard to access. She is driven by a deep desire to give back and to ensure that women’s health is prioritized and respected, no matter where in the world they live.

Elena Todervich Mary-Anne Robinson Scholarship. Elena began her nursing journey in 2008 as an Undergraduate Nursing Employee and graduated from the University of Alberta in 2009. She launched her career at the Mazankowski Heart Institute in the CICU, later transitioning to the Emergency Department and eventually the ICU/CCU at the Grey Nuns Hospital. Amid the global upheaval of the COVID-19 pandemic, Elena’s resilience and dedication never wavered. She continued to deliver compassionate, patient- and family-centered care through even the most challenging times. Through her hard work, perseverance, and deep commitment to patients, Elena rose to become the Unit Manager of Cardiac Clinics at the Grey Nuns Hospital. Known for her transparency and integrity, she strives to be an approachable, compassionate leader—one who values her team not only as professionals but as people. Elena believes that when staff feel supported and valued, patient care naturally improves. She fosters an open-door culture rooted in trust, self-reflection, and continuous growth. Now pursuing her Master’s degree, Elena is passionate about driving meaningful change and improving healthcare outcomes for all Albertans. Her leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence make her a true inspiration within Alberta’s nursing community.

Jennifer Dunn, Saskatoon City Hospital Nurses Alumnae Scholarship. Jennifer’s journey in nursing began in 2000 when she graduated from the University of New Brunswick. She started her career at The Janeway Children’s Hospital moving to Alberta Children’s Hospital in 2005, working across several high-intensity areas including the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU Level III), the Pediatric Operating Room. It was in these early years that Jennifer discovered her passion for mentoring, guiding new nurses, and helping them transition into challenging clinical roles. Her curiosity and commitment to advancing nursing practice led her to pursue a Master of Nursing degree, where she deepened her understanding of research and developed a keen interest in the history of nursing—learning from the past to inform the present. This blend of clinical expertise and academic rigor ultimately guided Jennifer toward doctoral studies. She was accepted into the PhD program at the University of Saskatchewan, where her research has already taken her far and wide. Jennifer’s research explores how nurses’ professional identities are shaped by historical, institutional, and architectural forces, particularly in high-acuity and perioperative settings. Using narrative inquiry and relational practice, Jennifer examines how these contexts influence meaning-making in nursing roles. Recent publications in Nursing Inquiry, Nursing Philosophy and the ORNAC Journal reflect this work, offering critical insight into how space and power affect mentorship, leadership, voice, and ethical practice. Jennifer’s work examines strategies to enhance healthcare sustainability by improving team collaboration, reducing nurse turnover, and raising the quality of patient care. It also emphasizes the importance of fostering inclusive work environments and building more resilient and equitable healthcare systems.

Jodi Scott William Godfrey Scholarship. Jody began her healthcare career as a Primary Care Paramedic in rural British Columbia before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and working in emergency nursing. Driven by a strong commitment to serving remote and under-resourced communities, she went on to become a flight nurse with AMS and later STARS, providing critical care transport across the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Alberta, and Manitoba. These experiences strengthened her clinical assessment and decision-making skills, enhanced her ability to work within multidisciplinary teams, and gave her valuable insight into the healthcare challenges faced across western Canada. Jody is now pursuing the Family/All Ages Nurse Practitioner program to transition into delivering comprehensive primary and acute care in underserved and remote communities. Her professional interests include healthcare leadership, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her capstone project explores the integration of Artificial Intelligence in nursing policy, focusing on ethical, legal, and regulatory considerations to support safe implementation in clinical practice. Jody plans to work as a locum Nurse Practitioner in remote Alberta communities while also providing primary and urgent care in the Bow Valley, where she resides. Committed to lifelong learning, she aims to improve patient outcomes, advance nursing practice, and help reduce healthcare disparities.