Congratulations to our 2021 Nursing Excellence Scholars!
Florence Nightingale is best known for being the first nursing theorist and the founder of professional nursing. But to the soldiers she tended at night during the Crimean War, she was simply the Lady with the Lamp – their beacon of hope.
So it’s fitting that each year, OhioHealth recognizes and celebrates nursing excellence and innovation in May, alongside National Nurses Week and Florence’s birthday. Like our own nurses, she is an inspiration to us all.
In 2021, we are pleased to award 322 scholarships totaling $420,650 across the OhioHealth system.
Without the generosity of donors like you and Dave Williams – who funds the Rose M. Williams Nursing Endowment – these scholarships would not be possible. Below, you will hear how Dave’s grandmother, the first female trustee of White Cross Hospital, left a legacy for his family that is still putting nurses through school to this day.
See our scholars
Click each hospital name to see scholarships funded and the recipients for each, along with special messages from our leadership.
From our leader:
"In order to meet the evolving needs of patients and their families, it's critical to promote and provide for nursing education. The gift of a scholarship allows an associate the chance to advance their education and take a step towards making their dream a reality. Our scholarship donors walk alongside our associates as their silent partner while they move towards the next step in their career. Thank you to our scholarship donors and congratulations to our scholarship winners."
Kristin Gardner MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care
From our scholars:
“Throughout my bachelor’s of nursing journey, OhioHealth has been supportive in so many ways – from a generous tuition reimbursement program, to guidance and support from my colleagues, and now this scholarship! OhioHealth’s cardinal value is to honor the dignity and worth of each person. This value clearly applies to not just our patients, but to our family of associates as well. It is evidenced especially in the way nursing associates are supported in their pursuit of higher education. The importance of competent, compassionate, nursing cannot be understated. In light of the terrible pandemic, many people have come to see the true value in nursing. I and many of my fellow nurses have been challenged in ways we never expected, but throughout it all, we were supported by our OhioHealth family. So, while I am very grateful for this scholarship, I am not surprised by it. Caring is what we do.”
Maria Phillips, RN
Berger Hospital Nursing Scholarship
Stephani Adams
Gaberial Baldwin
Cristal Brust
Kelsey Dyer
Amy Hevener
Jasmine Sparks
Rachel Taylor
Tiffany Zadik
Jack McGuire Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Maria Phillips
From our leader:
“I’ve always thought the nursing profession is one of the best professions, but this year, the whole world saw the importance of our profession. The nursing excellence scholarships are one way we recognize nurses and associates for taking the next step in their nursing careers. I am truly inspired by our donors for their generous support and for recognizing the importance of continuing education. I look forward to seeing where the recipients’ careers take them.”
Lindsey Osting, MS, BSN, RN
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care
From our scholars:
“This scholarship will help ensure the funds needed to complete the last couple of classes to obtain my bachelor’s degree in nursing. I have been an associate of OhioHealth Doctors Hospital for 11 years. I started as a staff RN and am now a clinical nurse lead in the catherization laboratory. Within three to five years, I hope to have the foundation and skill set to advance to manager status.”
Brandi McGhee, RN
Doctors Hospital Certified Lactation Counselor Scholarship
Danielle Johnson
Doctors Hospital Nursing Education Scholarship
Heather Boyd
Kevin Cooper
Heather Flowers
Lisa Fraraccio
Nicole Kight-Robinson
Allison Kleman
Hennessy-Laing Life-long Learning Nursing Scholarship
Amy Tracy
Joann Morris Nursing Scholarship
Maria Sison
Julie Fuller Foust Nursing Scholarship
Natasha Asante
Kanesha Turner Moss Nursing Scholarship
Suraya Smith
Marcy Conti Award
Hannah Safi
Pam Lane Continuing Education Award
Lora Wycuff
Rosemary Barkes Educational Advancement
Brandi McGhee
Stephen J. Vergamini Endowment for Allied Professionals
Deanna Smith
The Gary Alan Jones Compassionate Care Nusing Award
Mikala Miller
The Westland Area Business Association Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Jose Parra
From our leader:
“I always say nurses are the heartbeat of healthcare. I can’t think of any other year this rings louder. What a wonderful opportunity to express our gratitude for all the ways our nurses show their care than to support their educational efforts. Not only is this a great way to say thank you to our heartbeats, we know our patients have better outcomes the more educated our nurses are.”
Kanesha Moss MSN, RN
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Services
From our scholars:
“To the amazing donors: Thank You for your generosity. I promise each and every one of you that I will make you proud, and I will never stop serving this great nation and community where I reside. You have also inspired me to pay it forward, and hopefully one day soon, I will be able to start an educational grant myself to help those who wish to better their lives and reach their dreams as you have allowed me.”
Anthony Guzman, MBA, BSN, RN
Dublin Methodist Hospital
“The nursing excellence scholarships here at Grady Memorial are a genuine demonstration that both our community and workplace value us as nurses and support the process of our professional growth.”
Cynthia Wallace, RN
Grady Memorial Hospital
Dublin Methodist Hospital Scholarships
Dublin Methodist Hospital Scholarships
Canon USA Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Anthony Guzman
Dianna Mitchell Memorial Nursing Scholarship for Critical Care
Alexis Kenney
Dr. Bidisha and DJ Nag Nursing Scholarship
Taylor Wells
Dublin AM Rotary Nursing Scholarship
Alicia Brenneman
Edward K. Vornbrock Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Maureen Rosario
Flesch Family Scholarship
Abigail Opoku
Hidaka USA Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Alexa Bokar
Infante Family Scholarship
Courtney Gaerke
Kanesha Turner Moss Nursing Scholarship
Deja Hardiman
Linda Pfizenmayer Nursing Scholarship
Bryn Hagerdorn
Lois and Bob Roberts Memorial Scholarship
Jorge Galindo Castellanos
Jessica Parker
Probst Family Scholarship
Nasteho Abdulahi
Deja Hardiman
Schwarz Family Scholarship
Christine Kwon
The Bonnie Coley-Malir and Rick Malir Nursing Excellence Scholarship
David McKnight
Bradley Pauley
The Darrow Family Scholarship
Heather Sheets
The Dublin Women's Philanthropic Club Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Maureen Rosario
The First Citizens National Bank Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Petya Thompson
The John and Evelyn Wirchainski Nursing Education Scholarship
Hallie Jackson
Ashley Slomovitz
The Karen Hromalik Maternal-Child Health Honorary Nursing Award
Sophia Casa
The Sherrie L. Valentine Labor & Delivery Compassion Scholarship
Lisa Hampton
The Vornbrock Spirit of Nursing Compassion Scholarship
Amy Everhart
Grady Memorial Hospital Scholarships
G.William Parker Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Katelynn Davis
Destany Doty
Mary Haynes
Grady Medical Staff Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Cynthia Wallace
Michaela Wolfe
Teresa Watkins Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Jessica Boggioni
Kritika Girard
Walters Family Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Samantha Shock
From our leader:
“The pandemic and this past year inspired our nurses to adapt and lead in creative, unconventional ways. Our profession has not seen this kind of challenge in more than 100 years, but our nurses rose to the occasion. Part of the reason our team was able to do this is because of the culture of continuous learning and support that is provided through the generous support of our scholarship programs. We applaud our nurses who continued on their learning journey, especially during this unprecedented time. Their willingness to continue their growth is an inspiration to us all and will help us continue to provide excellent care to all those we serve.”
Beth Steele, MSN, RN, FACHE
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Operations
From our scholars:
“Thank you so much for your support in my master of nursing journey. I have been working hard to advance my nursing career and, more importantly, to set an example for my five kids. I truly could not have done this without your support. You’ve relieved my stress so I can focus on more important things, like school and family. I’m looking forward to celebrating my graduation in December with family and friends. I will be forever grateful to you, and plan to pay it forward by providing excellent nursing education and guidance to our future nurses. Congratulations to all the scholarship winners!”
Jeanne-Marie Young, RN
“You have kindly provided financial support to a stranger, but I would like to introduce myself. I am Fatima Fulton. My scholarship helps to cover my tuition fees at Xavier University for my bachelor’s degree in nursing, and I would like to thank you sincerely. I am grateful for your financial assistance and commitment to educational advancement. My plan is to one day pay it forward by making contributions that help the next generation of students' academic pursuits.”
Fatima S. Fulton, PSA
“This scholarship allows me to complete my program without the concern of being kept back due to monetary restraints. I’m humbled and grateful for the opportunity it provides to be a greater version of me for both myself and my family. My dream of becoming a registered nurse is finally coming to fruition, and it is through the kindness of people like you. To end this journey with a degree, and to be able to confidently say I will be able to support my family, is the life I have always wanted.”
Jacob Chenault, BLS
Ann and Fred Kull Scholarship
Alicia Awwiller
Rae Bledsoe
Sylvia Brennan
Jessica Calhoun
Erica Dent
Tenisha Dewees
Stacie Fitzgerald
Tara Greene
Natalie Kretz
Rachel Kucharski
Angela Leiss-Orndorff
Cierra Lewis
Heather McLymond
Jessica Miller
Ebony Pannell
Samantha Perigo
Kimberly Sammet
Tracy Sayre
Kirstin Silcox
Dana Smith
Danja Summers Gamble
Ashley Trejo
Troy Wiley
Teran Wright
Dr. Craig and Deborah Anderson Family Nursing Scholarship
Danielle Hughes
Heidi Johnson
Natalie Manning
Lydia Weaver
Jeanne-Marie Young
Dr. Tejas Mehta Cardiac Nursing Scholarship
Fatima Fulton
Olexiy Gonchar
Faith Jedlicka
Kameron Patterson
Elsie Cole Fisher Memorial Scholarship
Adjo Anyinefa
Lauren Bright
Anne Burkley
Kyra Craig
Caitlin Jennings
Corrine Kear
Jordan Little
Garth Lucius
Autumn Marcum
Christopher Miller
Brittany Parker
Candace Polk
Cynthia Santos
Kathleen Sherrod
Jacqueline Toku-Dum
Erin Whittaker
Grant Nursing Scholarship
Shelly Brewer
Phonephet Mahathiraj
Lacey Sheets
Grant Women's Service Board Scholarship
Karly Mitchell
Rachel Nichols
Stephanie Ratliff
Abigail Yeboah
Habash Scholarship in honor of Dave and Kris Blom
Taylor Leonhardt
Kristin Spradlin
Kathy Brazeau Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Danielle Webster
Marilyn M. and Raymond E. Barker, MD Nursing Education Scholarship
Kelie Hein
Alexa Logan
Leah Scarberry
Michael Lawson Chronic Disease Nursing Scholarship
Jacob Chenault
Sharon and Mary Margaret Nursing Scholarship
Ana Garrett Rodeiro
Kristin Parks
The Grant Alumni DNP Scholarship
Ayushma Neupane
The Peggy L. Wood Nursing Scholarship
Beth Green
Sarah Hanly
Lisa Jeffries
Tracy Western
From our leader:
“One of the things I love about nursing is the ability to continue developing our skills and knowledge through educational opportunities. As a nursing leader, furthering my education has awarded me the opportunity to advance in my leadership role within the organization. My hope for these recipients at Grove City Methodist Hospital is to continue to take the next step in their nursing career. Thank you to our donors for your monetary contributions. With these scholarships, we have been able to make a difference in the lives of so many of our nurses, and through those nurses, a difference in the lives of so many of our patients.”
Heather Miller, MHA, BSN, RN
Director of Operations and Nursing
From our scholars:
“Receiving this scholarship to complete my master’s degree in business administration this year means a great deal to my family and me. I will continue to be worthy of the time, energy and resources that OhioHealth has poured into me. It also provides the additional resources needed to finish strong and worry less. My family will get some of our weekends back and, very importantly, my children will see that sacrifice, patience, diligence, compassion and hard work pay off, and that anything you set out to achieve can be achieved.”
Lauren Poindexter, RN
OhioHealth Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Michelle Kaufman
Lauren Poindexter
From our leader:
“Working in hospice, we learn from our patients’ stories that life is a journey that keeps revealing itself. It’s so important to have nurses who are willing to be bedside in patient homes to provide care, compassion and comfort. We are so grateful to the donors who recognize the importance of continued education, and are helping members of our team take steps forward on their own journey through life.”
Christina Massey
System Director of Palliative Care and Hospice
From our scholars:
“Being awarded a scholarship to continue my education means the world to me. It will allow continued growth and advancement in my career, and increase my experience at OhioHealth. But most importantly, it ensures I can continue my work and commitment towards excellence and compassion with our patients and families. I am so honored. Thank you so much!”
Adrienne Pitts, LPN
Harper Family Hospice Nursing Scholarship
Georgette Ball
Kaylee Penix
Jennifer Smith
Patricia A. DiNunzio Hospice Nursing Excellence Scholarship
Amber Holderby
Priscilla Outlaw
Theresa Reuther Nursing Scholarship
Adrienne Pitts
Danielle Wilkinson
From our leader:
“Nursing is a profession that encompasses empathy, autonomy, collaboration and compassion for all people. We are recognized as the most trusted profession. Because of this trust, we are inspired daily by the graciousness of others ,such as our donors who support our continuous learning journey. While nursing has its challenging moments, it is also equally rewarding and instills a great sense of pride as we serve our communities. Thanks to all of our scholarship winners for your continuous dedication and passion toward growth and development in such a rewarding profession.”
Kelly Vierling, MSN, BSN, RN
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care
From our scholars:
“I have been certified in perinatal nursing since the 1990s, and it is expensive to maintain. When I decided to pursue my second certification in nursing professional development, it was nice to find out that I could apply for a scholarship and use that money to attend a review course. I would encourage anyone who is pursuing a certification to apply for a scholarship. It was easy to do and the money I was awarded helped me achieve the goal of becoming certified.”
Jean A. Leedy, BSN, RN-BC, NPD-BC
Mansfield Hospital
“I am incredibly grateful for the OhioHealth scholarship's contribution to my educational and personal development. I appreciate the support in furthering my nursing education. I anticipate graduating in May with my master’s degree in nursing education.”
Wendy Roop, BSN, RN
Shelby Hospital
Mansfield Hospital Scholarships
Dr. Mills Scholarship
Jessica Gillam (Riley)
Mansfield Auxiliary Scholarship
Madison Ferguson
Mansfield Endowment Scholarship
Rachael Hill
Mansfield Nursing Scholarship
Martha B. Tawse Scholarship
Emma Ardis
Alisha Coley
Chad Finley
Wendy Gunder
Tori Lowe
Patricia Wolf Scholarship
Gabrielle Gorczycz
Alexis Huffman
Megan Miller
Chervone Pinkston
Shirley Cassity Scholarship
Holly Bordner
Shelby Hospital Nursing Scholarships
Mansfield Nursing Scholarship
Trisha Harvey
Abbie Tackett
Patricia Wolf Scholarship
Chris Lykins
Shirley Cassity Scholarship
Christie Clabaugh
From our leader:
“I’d like to sincerely thank our donors for recognizing the importance of continuing education, as well as our amazing nurses, who are taking their careers to the next level. I’m so grateful for everyone involved in this program who appreciates and supports our nurses in such a meaningful way!”
Joy D. Bischoff, MSN, RN, NE-BC
Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Patient Care
Marion General Hospital Board of Directors Scholarship
Jessica Brewer
Ashley Wolf
Patient Care Professional Development Scholarship
From our leader:
“Our nursing team is committed to providing outstanding care to our patients and our community. We are grateful to our donors for recognizing their dedication. Their investment will support our hardworking associates as they further their education and enhance their skills. We are proud of our scholarship recipients for taking the next step in their careers and dedicating themselves to continuous learning. Congratulations to our award winners, and thank you to the donors for their generous support.”
Rhonda Dixon, MBA, BSN, RN
Chief Nursing Officer
From our scholars:
“No matter how busy my life is, I always strive to do the best for my family, my patients, and the team I work with. I don't want to see others struggle. I do whatever I can to make sure that everyone has a smile on their face and receives the best from me. Today is the best day ever because I found out I am receiving a scholarship, and I was accepted to nursing school! I’m proud of my hard work. This award motivates me to keep putting out my best.”
Stacie Holbert
Hocking Valley Bank Nursing Scholarship
Stacie Holbert
O'Bleness Nursing Scholarship
Sara Bobo
Anna Riley
From our leader:
“Thank you, donors, for generously supporting our deserving nursing associates seeking professional development. The gift of a scholarship inspires and affirms the recipient and elevates the practice of nursing in our community. This year, the encouragement and financial support is especially impactful. During the pandemic, the sacrificial nature of the work of the nurse has come to light. I admire those who continue to push themselves to contribute at a higher level, especially during these challenging times. To our scholarship recipients, I express my deepest gratitude for all you have given to others, and I commend you for your tenacity in continuing to advance your knowledge and skills.”
Elizabeth Steger, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Chief Nursing Officer
Interim Chief Nursing Executive for OhioHealth
From our scholars:
“There are not enough words to express my gratitude for this scholarship award. This money will support my journey towards a master’s degree in hospital administration. I look forward to using the knowledge gained from my program to find innovative ways to provide high quality care centered around our patients at OhioHealth. I am beyond grateful for your support. Thank you!”
Lindsey Bonnie, BSN, RN
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you to all of the donors for this scholarship. I am starting my second year in the doctor of nursing practice nurse anesthesia program through Otterbein’s partnership with Grant Medical Center. By awarding me this scholarship, you have lightened my financial burden, which allows me to focus more on my studies. Your generosity has inspired me, and I hope that one day I will be able to help students achieve their goals, just as you have with mine. Your donation is sincerely appreciated.”
Samantha Kingsley, BSN, RN, CCRN
“The Rose Williams Endowment scholarship has changed my life and opened the doors of opportunity. I have been working hard to obtain my bachelor’s degree in nursing, to not only secure my position here at OhioHealth, but also to help me grow as a professional and individual. The scholarship allowed me to decrease my hours so I can take full-time classes. It also reduced my stress level so I can achieve my goals. I am more than grateful for the scholarship and truly do not think I could have been academically successful without it. I am now able to focus on growing as a nurse and putting my new skills into practice for the greater good of our patients. By someone having a heart to give, my life has been changed, and I hope to be able to give back to my community in some way, too! Thank you!”
Allie Williams
Alan & Bobbie Weiler ICU Nursing Scholarship
Danielle Ledbetter
Alan & Bobbie Weiler Nursing Scholarship
Katy Hunter
Andy and Cheryl Chapekis Nursing Scholarship
Hicham Amam
Kristopher Smedes
Arthur G.H. Bing, MD Nursing Scholarship
Nicole Truckor
Central Ohio Primary Care Hospitalist Nursing Scholarship
Tony Williams
Chris Deubner Memorial Nursing Award
Teresa Gillum
Kelly Perez
Deborah Dolak
Chuck and Carol Kimball Cancer Nursing Scholarship
Rebecca Anderson
Cynthia Ann Feery Memorial Award
Anna Hostutler
Lindsay West
Dempsey Family Neuroscience Nursing Scholarship
Nicholas Anderson
Diana L. Etzler, RN Memorial Operating Room Nurse Award
Gina Booze
Donald A. Memorial and Joanne W. Borror Medical/Surgical Nursing Scholarship
Dipal Patel
Donald J. "D.J." Vincent, MD Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Lindsey Bonnie
Dr. R. Keith Pattison Cardiac Nursing Scholarship
Tamarah Thomas
Erica Palombaro
Eric C. and Nancy Bishop Smith Oncology and Nursing Scholarship
Jamie Williams
Gordon Taylor, MD, Jean G. Taylor, RN and Becky L. Taylor Nursing Scholarship
Erin Eberhart
Josie Dotson
Casey Clifton
Goss Nursing Scholarship Award
Leanna Gordon
Nicole Topits
Hazel Hurlburt, RN Memorial Nursing Scholarship
James Oswalt
Janet Music Memorial ICU Nursing Scholarship
Hannah Kuo
Jared McKnight CRNA Nursing Scholarship
Samantha Kingsley
Jennifer Clarke Sabados Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Jenna Dorman
John P. Goff, MD Memorial Women's Health Nursing Scholarship
Kimberly Emmons
John Wirchainski Memorial and Evelyn Wirchainski Nursing Scholarship
Kimberly Helmsdoerfer
Kathy Grannan Award for Life Long Learning
Tracey Reeser
Kay and Gary Spires Memorial Emergency Department Nursing Scholarship
Stephana Reed
Leo Murthy, MD Senior Health Nursing Scholarship
Adrienne Kitts
Marilyn Smith-Johnson, RN Nursing Scholarship
Julie Catanzaro
Mary Alice Miller Galloway Memorial Nursing Award
Jane Siefker
Mirolo Charitable Foundation Neuroscience Nursing Scholarship
Sierra Massey
Payton Swartz
Paxton Schwaderer
Heather Tatusko
Laura Hicks
Patricia Mattingly, RN Memorial Care Scholarship
Amy Bishop
Paula Huck Memorial Nursing Scholarship
Lisa Horn
Abby Bilbrey
Richard L. Fulton, MD Memorial and Joan S. Fulton Medical Nursing Scholarship
Victoria Lawyer
Jacob Turner
Rita Jane Smith, RN Nursing Award
Benjamin Cooper
Melissa Parker
Vince Chickerella
Riverside Methodist Nursing Leadership Scholarship
Terri Love
Riverside Methodist Retired Physicians Scholarship
Nathan Shuman
Riverside Nursing Scholarship
Rosamund Davis
Hannah Little
Christopher Germon
Kinsea Burr
Courtney Kresge
Lauren Taylor
Riverside Spirit of Nursing Scholarship
LeeAnn Derwent
Priscilla Puddoc
Harmony Kamara
Ciara Cottrill
Jason Greer
Pete Williamson
Saynab Ahmed
Jessica Clark
Jessica Giglio
Jenna Pearce
Stephanie Ruz
Paul Chang
Zamzam Mohamed
Monica Goodwin
James Estrada
Nancy Wood
Ashley Calloway
Sinead Nichols
Karen Hessler
Nancie Edwards
Chelsea Anderson
Monique Haber
Maddison Balsley
Walaa Hussein
Sira Bah
Robin Studlein, RN Memorial Family Care/ Gyn Unit Nursing Award
Elizabeth Pierce
Rose M. Williams Nursing Scholarship
Michelle Nicely
Alexandria Williams
Douaa Bennani
Sara Urio
Kristen Beckman
Spirit of Gratitude
Rebecca Winzenread
Rebecca Duncan
Tara Healey
Rebecca Seubert
Michelle Schiff
Stewart & Bernice Malquist Cancer Patient Navigation/Nursing Scholarship
Amy Zehala
Stewart & Bernice Malquist NICU Nursing Scholarship
Maya Smith
Susan A. Hilty, RN and Julie (Hilty) Hope, RN Nursing Scholarship
Taylor Hoffman
Suzanne Miltko, RN Memorial Nursing Education Award
Kenlee Mulbay
Amy Sarver
Lily Coyer
Rita J. Smith, RN Medical Surgical Nursing Award
Christine Hamblin
Willis S. and F. Adele White, Jr. Nursing Scholarship
Natalie Hiles
Women's Health Services Nursing Award
Hannah Schorr
From our leader:
“Congratulations to our scholars! Their ability to consistently live our OhioHealth values and nursing vision sets them apart. I know that they will continue to build on a strong foundation and give back to our community.”
Elizabeth Steger, MSN, RN, NEA-BC
Chief Nursing Officer, Riverside Methodist Hospital
Interim Chief Nursing Executive for OhioHealth
From our scholars:
“I was born at Riverside Methodist Hospital and raised in Columbus. I intend on serving the community that I live in. This scholarship will help me continue my education and complete my goal of becoming an acute care nurse practitioner.”
Brittany Cook
“The generosity of this scholarship will not only help me fund my schooling now, it will also be something I never forget. OhioHealth has supported me in so many ways, as well as the people I work with. I wouldn't be able to do it without the OhioHealth community.”
Lëna Stiles
Donna Hanly Nursing Scholarship
Sarah Bush
Harper Family Home Care Nursing Scholarship
Kellie Adams