Passion, dedication, and hard work—these are the qualities that define the heroes of the nursing profession. At Trent University's Annual Nursing Awards Ceremony, outstanding students and alumni were recognized for their exceptional contributions, highlighting the crucial role that nurses play in healthcare.  

At the Trent/Fleming School of Nursing (TFSON), the sense of purpose for nursing professionals is underlined by the urgent need for practice ready nurses to address the growing demand in Ontario. The pandemic emphasized the critical importance of nursing in healthcare, and Trent is committed to producing skilled professionals who can make a difference in the world. 

“The nursing profession is a calling. One that demands passion, unwavering dedication, and continued hard work. At Trent, we understand the critical importance of cultivating knowledgeable and skilled professionals who can make a profound impact in our communities,” said Dr. Hugo Lehmann, acting dean of TFSON. “Our exceptional students and alumni embody these qualities, and their incredible contributions to healthcare inspire us all. We take immense pride in recognizing their achievements and celebrating the crucial role nurses play in shaping the future of healthcare in Ontario.” 

Preceptor role in supporting future nursing professionals

One way that TFSON facilitates fourth year nursing students to consolidate their knowledge is through the mentorship by preceptors who are experienced nurses who help students apply their learning in clinical settings. 

Jordyn Woodhouse, a local resident of Peterborough who graduated from TFSON program two years ago, was recognized at the ceremony with the Preceptor Award for her outstanding leadership, professionalism, and role as a nurse educator.  

Woodhouse works at Centennial Place, a long-term care facility, where she has been supervising and precepting nursing students throughout the pandemic. Her dedication and commitment to the profession have been an inspiration to many, including Robert Scheunemann, a former construction worker who now shares Woodhouse’s passion for nursing and caring for older adults. 

“I was so impressed with Jordyn Woodhouse as my preceptor and as a long-term care nurse and supervisor at Centennial Place,” said Robert, sharing that Woodhouse deserves recognition not only for her skill, but the compassion she shows those in her care. “I found myself in an unusual position as a thirty-five-year-old man looking up to a twenty-three-year-old role model. When I first heard about the Preceptor Recognition Award, I knew it would be an injustice not to nominate Jordyn.” 

Hardwork, passion, and dedication

The Nicholls Alumnae Award is a prestigious honour that recognizes excellence in the nursing profession. This award is given to a nurse who demonstrates exceptional dedication, passion, and expertise in their field. Each year, TFSON selects a recipient who has shown outstanding achievement and commitment to their patients and the nursing profession.  

Allyssa McCart was awarded the Nicholls Alumnae Award for her excellence in nursing. She was nominated by her preceptor, who helped her channel her passion for pediatric nursing that was ignited by caring for her brother who died of cancer. McCart's confidence was bolstered by her clinical externship at PHC on the pediatric and maternal-child unit. Her commitment to learning and dedication to patient care earned her the recognition and honour of this prestigious award. 

Local students recognized for outstanding achievement

In 2021, philanthropist Doreen Stewart made a generous donation to establish the Doreen (Larmer) Stewart Nursing Scholarship—a scholarship to expand support for local students from rural or farming communities who face financial barriers to an education in nursing. This award recognizes those who have shown outstanding achievement and commitment to their studies and profession.  

Among the deserving recipients of the award was Cassandra Kidd, a Peterborough local who has worked with Deafblind Ontario Services as a support worker for the past three years. Cassandra's unwavering dedication to her studies has earned her an honour-roll standing, and she aims to pursue her Masters in Nursing.  

Rachel Root’s exceptional achievements in the nursing program were also acknowledged for the second year in a row. Her unwavering passion for nursing was ignited by her experience caring for her mother, who died of cancer. Despite juggling part-time work and rigorous academic demands, Rachel has continued to excel in her studies and serve as a source of inspiration for her peers. 

The achievements of Trent University's Nursing program alumni and students serve as a true inspiration for those considering a career in nursing. By pursuing excellence and demonstrating passion in their practice, these outstanding individuals have set the bar high for aspiring nurses, providing an example of the kind of impact one can make in the world through nursing. 

Learn more about studying nursing through the Trent/Fleming School of Nursing.