Celebrating Nursing Excellence at WTAMU School of Nursing

News Summary

The eighth annual Panhandle Great 25 Nurses Awards Banquet was celebrated at West Texas A&M University, honoring outstanding nursing professionals and students. Approximately 360 attendees gathered to recognize the contributions of 12 individuals from the Laura and Joe Street School of Nursing, including faculty and alumni. Scholarships were awarded to encourage future leaders in nursing, emphasizing the essential role of nurses in the community and healthcare system.

Celebrating Nursing Excellence in Canyon

This past weekend, Canyon was alive with excitement as the community gathered for the eighth annual Panhandle Great 25 Nurses Awards Banquet and Celebration. Held at the charming Alumni Banquet Hall at West Texas A&M University (WTAMU), the evening was a remarkable showcase of dedication and excellence in nursing.

Approximately 360 attendees came together, united by a shared appreciation for the tireless efforts and essential roles nurses play in the healthcare sector. This event is not just a gathering; it is a heartfelt celebration, recognizing the significant contributions of nurses throughout the years.

A Heartfelt Tribute to Exceptional Nursing Professionals

This year, the spotlight shone on three outstanding faculty members and nine remarkable alumni from WT’s Laura and Joe Street School of Nursing, all of whom received well-deserved recognition. The evening was infused with moments of pride as the contributions of these individuals were acknowledged in front of their peers and the community.

Additionally, five current nursing students along with one faculty member were awarded prestigious Panhandle Great 25 scholarships. These scholarships are not just financial aid; they symbolize a commitment to nurturing future leaders in nursing and advancing the profession.

How Honorees Are Chosen

The award selection process is rigorous and is facilitated by a dedicated committee collaborating with the Texas Nurses Association District 2 and the Panhandle Great 25 Nurses committee. The criteria for these esteemed honors are set high, focusing on essential qualities such as leadership, community service, compassionate caregiving, and overall contributions to the nursing field.

Recognizing Standout Faculty

This year, the honored faculty members included:

Shravan Devkota, Dr. Wesley L. Langham Professor of Nursing
Sherri Drinnon, a respected nursing instructor
Shaina Neely, High Plains Christian Ministries Foundation Professor of Psychiatric Mental Health

The founder of this prestigious event, Dr. Valerie Kiper, who serves as the Regional Dean of Texas Tech University Health Science Center (TTUHSC) – School of Nursing, was present. Despite her personal challenges, Dr. Kiper embodies resilience and passion for nursing, emphasizing the ongoing need to recognize the invaluable contributions made by nurses.

A Legacy of Recognition and Support

Since its inception in 2016, the foundation has not only honored 150 nurses but has also disbursed an impressive $75,000 in scholarships. This commitment to education and support is vital for fostering new talent in the nursing field, with scholarships totaling $16,000 awarded during the event.

The Importance of the Nursing Community

With over 4,000 nurses actively serving in the Texas Panhandle region, this celebration highlights the profound impact these dedicated professionals have on healthcare. Recognizing nursing as both a scientific art and a vital part of community health solidifies its reputation as a noble profession.

WT’s Nursing Program Stands Out

One of the cornerstones of this achievement is WT’s Street School of Nursing, which boasts an impressive graduation and licensure success rate. Over the past five years, students have achieved an average of 97% pass score on the National Council Licensure Examination, well above the national average of 85% and the state average of 87%.

Inspiring Future Generations

This annual celebration serves as a model for communities across Texas, demonstrating the power of collaboration and recognition in elevating the nursing profession. Notable alumni recipients this year included dedicated individuals such as Angela Adams and Anna LaVon Barrett, underscoring the impact WT alumni continue to have on healthcare.

As the night came to a close, the sense of camaraderie and pride in the nursing profession was palpable. It was a joyful reminder that the dedication of nurses doesn’t go unnoticed and that their contributions continue to shape a healthier, stronger community.