Congratulations to King County Nurses Association Scholarship Recipients

King County Nurses Association (KCNA) is proud to help ensure the future of nursing in our community by offering scholarships to qualified nursing students.

Congratulations to these amazing #HuskyNurses who have been recognized for their hard work and dedication.

  • Thanh-Thao BuiBachelor of Science in Nursing “I chose nursing because I love everything that the profession has to offer. Nurses are some of the most hardworking, supportive, and individuals I know.”
  • Jessica ChangMasters in Clinical Informatics and Patient-Centered Technologies “I chose nursing because I have Filipino-immigrant parents, Alex and Rene, whose resilience and compassion for others motivated me to choose a career that allows me to care for those in our community.”
  • Leigh Kalaman, Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner “I chose nursing at a young age because I always wanted to help others. As I grew as a nurse, I became fascinated with all that nursing has to offer and the important role that we play in our patient’s lives. Now, as a DNP student, I am excited to continue my nursing journey as a future practitioner.”
  • André MattusAccelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing “I plan on becoming a registered nurse in adult critical care, in an emergency department, or a trauma intensive care unit. After developing my critical care nursing foundation, I then want to bridge the gap between austere medicine and in-facility care by flying as a flight nurse in the Pacific Northwest. In my time off, I want to become a Basic Life Support Instructor with the American Heart Association in the hopes of one day offering free or low-cost certification courses for underrepresented communities in healthcare.”
  • Liliana PalaciosDoctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner “My mother has worked in a hospital since I can remember, from nursing assistant to unit secretary and now surgical technician. So, I always had an idea of what a nurse did and that sparked my interest. In 2011, I participated in UW Nurse Camp. That experience gave me the confidence to pursue nursing, while also sparking interest in making a difference in my community.”
  • Shavonne Reynolds – Doctor of Nursing Practice/Family Nurse Practitioner “My overall career goal is to help establish and serve more community health centers in high-need communities that provide comprehensive health care to all, regardless of ability to pay.”
  • Angelita Utleg – PhD in Nursing Science  “ I love my current educational path in nursing. I am passionate in my contribution to biomedical science and research. I love being a part of a stronger, well-educated nursing workforce right at the beginning of the 21st century. We are improving the quality of care for all patients. This is probably the most rewarding experience one can hope to participate in.”

Read more about them and other outstanding #huskynurses in our student spotlight.