Meet the 2025 scholarship recipients

BSN candidate
George Fox University 

“This WSNF scholarship means a great deal to me. It represents not only financial support, but also recognition of my dedication to the nursing profession.”
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Nurses kept Alexis alive. Born prematurely at 27 weeks, she and her twin brother spent 12 critical weeks in the NICU, where the care of nurses was essential to their survival. When her mother became a registered nurse, she witnessed the gratitude of patients when they visited during the holidays. These experiences inspired her to become a nurse. 

Alexis volunteered at a sports camp for individuals with disabilities, which deepened her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and providing care that respects the dignity of all individuals—a value she plans to carry into her nursing career. 

DNP-Population Health and Systems Leadership candidate
University of Washington

In addition to general WSNF scholarship funding, David was named a Judith Huntington Scholar.

"Receiving these scholarships inspires me and empowers my commitment to advancing health and equity through upstream, systems-level collaboration, and innovation."
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Two weeks after his father’s death from cancer, David walked into his local community college to begin his nursing education.

David had been volunteering as a street medic, providing basic first aid and interventions at protest sites. A fellow street medic was studying to become a nurse practitioner, and their shared dedication to equity and activism led David to believe he would make an excellent nurse.

Through nursing, advocacy, and policy, David is committed to ensuring that individuals with mental and behavioral health needs receive high-quality care.

BSN candidate
Gonzaga University

In addition to general WSNF funding, Kathleen received a scholarship by the Inland Empire Nurses Association, administered by WSNF.

“This scholarship will help cover a significant portion of my upcoming fall semester tuition and allow me to focus on continuing to excel in school… I look forward to being able to pay this generosity forward throughout my nursing career.”
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Kathleen says women's rights and safety have been central to who she is and what she believes in for as long as she can remember. So, it’s only natural that she is drawn to labor and delivery. She is deeply concerned by the maternal mortality rate in this country and wants to support and advocate for patients.

Giving birth is beautiful and scary, she said. “Having a confident, knowledgeable nurse who is both medically skilled and emotionally supportive can make a huge change in someone's experience during labor.”

She hopes in the future to become a certified nurse-midwife.

ADN candidate
Spokane Community College

"Having the support of this foundation validated that I am on the right path—further motivating me to continue fighting to create a better world for all."
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Julia’s little brother was born with Down Syndrome. Seeing how her parents cared for her brother made her want to help others from a young age, and her love for her brother made her a fierce advocate for disabled individuals.

Julia works as a nursing assistant and says that patients often do not have their disabilities recognized or accommodated. As a nurse, Julia wants to call out ableist behavior to educate and influence positive change. She hopes to continue advocating for and helping care for others, especially for those who are most vulnerable.

DNP candidate
Washington State University

“Balancing graduate school, clinical responsibilities, work, and personal life have been challenging, but it is also profoundly rewarding. This scholarship alleviates some of the financial burden, allowing me to focus more on my studies.”
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A serious car accident left Carol with a broken pelvis, confined to a wheelchair, and unable to care for herself for over three months. Her long recovery period helped her rediscover her purpose: To transform lives and support others during their lowest moments.

As a psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, Carol wants to serve underserved communities, ensuring equitable access to psychiatric, mental health, and substance-abuse services.

Ultimately, she wants to help formulate and implement policies addressing mental health and social determinants of health, fostering systemic changes that empower individuals, and create healthier communities.

ADN candidate
Spokane Community College

In addition to general WSNF funding, Katelyn received a scholarship by the Inland Empire Nurses Association, administered by WSNF.

"As a working, full-time student and mother to two small, beautiful children, times can feel a bit overwhelming. This scholarship not only provides my family and I with financial relief but is a symbol of hope, encouragement, and empowerment to continue striving for my goals.”
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As a child, Katelyn used to “go to work” with her mother at the VA Hospital carrying her Sesame Street nursing bag.

When she became a mother, she looked at her daughter and knew that she wanted to be more for her and show her dreams can come true.

Katelyn currently is focused on studying to become an RN, but, ultimately, she would like to work with other mothers and their children.

 “Nursing is not just a job or a paycheck for me, it is a life calling,” she said.

RN-to-BSN candidate
Western Washington University

“As a parent supporting children in college while pursuing my own higher education, this financial assistance significantly eases the burden.”
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After 15 years as a business owner, Manpreet’s passion for helping others and desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives led her to the nursing profession. Through her volunteer work at the Blaine Food Bank, Manpreet has seen the immense need for support within the community, and she is eager to expand her service into nursing care for underserved individuals.

One day, she aspires to work with global organizations such as Doctors Without Borders, bringing medical care to those in crisis and underserved regions. She is committed to making a meaningful difference in people’s lives through nursing and humanitarian work.

BSN candidate
Gonzaga University

In addition to general WSNF scholarship funding, Riley received a scholarship by the Inland Empire Nurses Association, administered by WSNF.

“I am so thankful to be able to have found a career I love and have the support of WSNF that helps make it possible for me to achieve my goal."
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Volunteering at an elementary school opened Riley’s eyes to how many people are struggling and how being low income has effects on education and healthcare outcomes. It made him realize he could make a real difference for vulnerable populations.

He decided to become a nurse because he saw it as a career where he could work hard, give back to the community, and be able to interact with patients.

As Riley wrote, “Advocating for patients' physical health can improve their mental health and so many other aspects of their lives. People often just need someone who is there to listen to them and offer support.”

RN-BSN candidate
Boise State University

"It’s not just financial support—it's validation of my commitment to advancing my nursing career and recognition of my potential to make a greater impact in my community.”
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Alexander started as a CNA, currently works as an RN in the Critical Care Unit at MultiCare Health System's Valley Hospital, and is now pursuing a BSN. He is passionate about advancing his skills and his education.

Alexander was inspired to pursue nursing by witnessing the compassionate care provided to his grandmother during her battle with a chronic illness. His extensive volunteer experience, including serving as an RN for the American Red Cross, serving on the Board of the Tenants Union, and serving on the Spokane Human Rights Commission reinforced his commitment to community health and advocacy.

BSN candidate
Seattle University

“This support will help relieve some of the financial pressure on my family, allowing me to dedicate more time to my education and development as a future nurse."
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Hanna has worked as a CNA for several years, adjusting to new jobs and responsibilities during the pandemic.

As a CNA in an assisted-living facility, she came up with a method of writing down a resident’s needs to overcome language barriers. She learned to collaborate, and she learned the absolute importance of accountability. These are experiences she brings to her development as a nurse.

Hanna wants to be a nurse to help patients and their families through difficult situations and make a difference in their lives.

MSN-FNP candidate
Frontier Nursing University

“This award empowers me to pursue my goal of becoming a family nurse practitioner. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and will use it to serve our patients and community with compassion and dedication."
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In 2016, Tuan shadowed the care team at Ho Chi Minh City Oncology Hospital in Vietnam. He witnessed patients with late-stage cancer struggling due to limited resources and delayed diagnoses. It was eye-opening. There he saw, like never before, the critical need for accessible, preventive healthcare, particularly for underserved populations.

Working at International Community Health Services, he saw how screenings, education, and collaboration could transform lives by preventing disease and managing chronic conditions.

As a future FNP, he aims to continue addressing barriers to care and promoting equitable health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations in underserved communities.

BSN candidate
Seattle University

“As a nursing student, a mother to a young child, and currently expecting my second baby, this support comes at a crucial time.”
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Sonia’s journey in nursing was inspired by her deep-rooted commitment to serving vulnerable populations and her personal experiences as a mother and caregiver.

In her volunteer work caring for drug-exposed newborns at the Pediatric Interim Care Center (a stand-alone nursery that recently closed due to loss of state funding), Sonia has seen the critical need for family-centered education and support programs, reinforcing her dedication to vulnerable populations.

Long-term, Sonia aspires to specialize in public health nursing, focusing on health equity, neonatal care, and family support programs. She wants to expand educational initiatives for families of drug-exposed newborns, ensuring they receive the resources and support needed to thrive.

MSN-Nursing Education candidate
Indiana Wesleyan University

"I am deeply grateful for this WSNF scholarship that will enable me to complete my advanced nursing studies. Thank you for your investment in future nurses and the communities that we serve."
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Angela was inspired to pursue nursing at a young age. She admired the role of advanced practice nurses she saw through her personal health challenges and wanted to help.

She had a chance to observe a school nurse and decided that was what she wanted to be, making a difference for students and staff. As a school nurse, she enjoys establishing long-term relationships and providing nursing support throughout childhood.

As an advanced practice nurse educator, she hopes to continue community work, where she feels she can make the greatest impact.

DNP candidate, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner track
Washington State University

“This support not only eases the financial burden of my education but also inspires me to continue striving for excellence in clinical care, advocacy, and leadership within the nursing profession.”
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Lindsey has been a nurse for 16 years, including 11 years in labor and delivery.

When she had a mental health crisis after her second child was born, she connected with a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and was inspired by her caring, holistic care. Afterwards, she started looking into PMHNP programs. She is excited to help others navigate mental health challenges, learn how to cope with their issues, and work towards recovery. Long term, she would like to open a private practice and become certified in a few therapeutic modalities to provide the best care for her patients.

BSN candidate
Seattle University

"This WSNF scholarship means that I am supported to continue my education and complete my nursing degree as a first-generation college student, and I am truly grateful for this opportunity.”
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Ilham wanted to become a nurse after a negative experience with a physician whose lack of empathy and commitment to her specific needs negatively affected her quality of care. As a first generation Somali American and a Black woman, she knew this was an all-too- common experience.

She had seen that “even small acts of advocacy could break cycles of inequity” through her volunteer work supporting immigrant and low-income clients at Somali Community Services and the Rainier Valley Food Bank.

Ilham is eager to become a nurse and break the cycle of inequity in healthcare by providing compassionate care to underserved communities and representing those who share her background.

BSN candidate
Pacific Lutheran University

“Coming from a low-income background, gathering funds brings stress, and this opportunity helps to alleviate some of that stress.”
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Nikolay comes from a long line of physicians, nurses, midwives, anesthesiologists, and caregivers. But when the family moved from Kazakhstan to the United States, they lost all their medical certifications and had to become cleaners and truck drivers to survive.

Nikolay now helps others arriving from Ukraine gain conversational English skills to go into the workforce, earn an education, and be on their own in a foreign new land.

Nikolay believes the dream and legacy of working in healthcare was passed down to him from his family. He has worked as a CNA and looks forward to becoming an RN.

DNP-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner candidate
Seattle University

“As I pursue my doctor of nursing practice in psychiatric and mental health, this support affirms my commitment to serving vulnerable populations and advancing mental healthcare in our state.”
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Growing up in a household with a mentally ill family member, Carlin witnessed firsthand the importance of empathy, support, and access to quality mental healthcare. As an emergency department nurse, Carlin has cared for many patients with psychiatric disorders, substance-use issues, and social disparities.

Carlin is now committed to becoming a nurse practitioner providing holistic, supportive care to individuals facing complex psychiatric challenges.

As she wrote in her application, “Personal experiences have shaped my journey, and I am committed to using my skills to ensure every patient receives the care and support they deserve.”

BSN candidate
Seattle University

“This scholarship gives me hope and reminds me that everything I’ve been working for is really possible."
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Somtochukwu developed his passion for nursing when his paternal grandmother was very sick. The nurses cared for her with compassion and dedication. Watching how they supported his grandmother made his family feel safe, even when they couldn’t be there themselves.

Somtochukwu wants to be that kind of nurse—someone that patients and their families can trust during tough times. His journey is driven by his desire to help others and ensure they feel supported and cared for, just as those nurses cared for his grandmother.

DNP-Family Nurse Practitioner candidate
Washington State University

"Receiving this scholarship is both an incredible honor and a meaningful affirmation of my commitment to nursing and academic excellence.”
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Faiza’s journey into nursing began when her daughter was diagnosed with diabetes at 5 years old. Faiza struggled to understand insulin management and carbohydrate ratios. Determined to provide the best care for her daughter, Faiza educated herself by taking classes at Children’s Hospital and joining a support group. As she learned, she started helping other families navigate the complexities of managing childhood diabetes, which led her to want to become a nurse. As an immigrant, Faiza is committed to ensuring culturally competent, equitable healthcare for vulnerable communities. She said, “My passion lies in advancing diabetes care, especially within underserved communities where disparities in access and outcomes persist.”

BSN candidate
Pacific Lutheran University

"I am so grateful for the WSNF scholarship as it will help me graduate from nursing school debt free, so I can focus on my career of helping others and alleviating their suffering rather than having to spend time and energy repaying student loans."
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While a student at the University of Washington, Emma volunteered more than 100 hours at Harborview Medical Center, including picking patients up from their rooms and wheeling them to the Discharge Lounge.

One time, she was asked to transport a transgender patient. Because they had changed their first name in the recent past, the faxed paperwork had the wrong name, causing unnecessary stress, delay, and frustration. Emma believes it will be her duty as a nurse to care and advocate diligently and courteously for every patient that comes in the door to make sure equitable care is given.

BSN candidate
Gonzaga University

In addition to general WSNF scholarship funding, a scholarship was provided by the Inland Empire Nurses Association, administered by WSNF.

Ashleigh was also named a Deo Little Scholar.

“It is an amazing feeling to know that my hard work and passion for the field of nursing has not gone unnoticed, and that I have support from the nursing community outside of my small, rural hometown in Oregon.”
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Ashleigh knew she wanted to pursue a career in healthcare after her mother suffered serious hysterectomy complications. Sadly, the nurse missed indications that her mother was septic and needed emergency surgery. As a nurse, Ashley wants to do better. Her love for working with children and admiration of their zest for life, led her to pursue pediatric nursing. She wants to make an impact on as many lives as she can.

Ahsleigh will be serving as president of the Gonzaga Student Nurses Association this year, helping nursing students realize the importance of being involved and building community.

BSN candidate
Pacific Lutheran University

“Receiving this support is both encouraging and deeply affirming. I am extremely grateful for your investment in my future and in the care I aim to provide for my community.”
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When April was in high school, her grandmother became very ill. She spent every evening after school by her side and noticed a critical gap—there were no Latino staff involved in her grandmother’s care. April translated for her grandmother, making sure she understood her diagnosis and treatment plan. Witnessing how language and cultural barriers impacted her grandmother’s care inspired her to enter the healthcare field. April’s mission is to advocate for underserved communities, bridge language gaps, and ensure culturally competent care. Eventually, April would like to create a foundation that provides mentorship and scholarships for first-generation and underrepresented nursing students.

ADN candidate
Clark College

"As a mother and nursing student, receiving this scholarship from the Washington State Nurses Foundation is incredibly meaningful to me. It not only provides vital financial support but also serves as encouragement as I balance my responsibilities at home and in school.”
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Jana says caring for others is part of her DNA.

Working as a support professional for adults with developmental disabilities, she saw a way to help bridge the gap between them and health professionals. That experience, along with her deep love for science, led her to the nursing profession.

Jana has experienced a lot of medical traumas, and those personal experiences have only strengthened her desire to pursue nursing. She said, “I hope to provide the same grace, compassion, empathy, and support to the community that was given to me during some of my life’s scariest moments.”

ADN candidate
Spokane Community College

In addition to general WSNF scholarship funding, a scholarship was provided by the Inland Empire Nurses Association, administered by WSNF.

“I am incredibly grateful for this investment in my future and will carry this encouragement with me as I continue my journey into the nursing profession.”
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Alexis has always enjoyed helping people. She says that becoming a nurse gives her a way to help others that combines her compassion with practical skills to provide care and comfort. 

Alexis’ roles as a CNA in a long-term facility for veterans, a rural acute-care hospital, and in home health and hospice affirmed her desire to become a compassionate, skilled nurse serving her community.

Long term, Alexis hopes to specialize in a field such as pediatrics or geriatrics, where she can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable populations.