HONOLULU — A former Kaua‘i resident is one of two Hawai‘i nurses recently awarded the University of Phoenix Excellence in Nursing scholarship, the school announced recently. Makakilo resident Crystal “Noe” Partida and ‘Ewa Beach resident Jonathan Mack have been awarded
HONOLULU — A former Kaua‘i resident is one of two Hawai‘i nurses recently awarded the University of Phoenix Excellence in Nursing scholarship, the school announced recently.
Makakilo resident Crystal “Noe” Partida and ‘Ewa Beach resident Jonathan Mack have been awarded the scholarships, given to current University of Phoenix College of Nursing students who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to the field of nursing, according to a press release.
“University of Phoenix knows that a more educated nurse is a safer nurse,” said Kristine Averill, University of Phoenix Hawai‘i Campus director. “As the role of nurses continues to evolve and expand, higher education becomes even more vital for ensuring a positive patient experience.”
As a young girl growing up in Kaua‘i, Partida said she dreamed of becoming a nurse. As the profession continued to trend toward registered nurses with four-year degrees, Partida realized that she needed to pursue higher education to succeed in today’s competitive environment.
She is currently taking classes at University of Phoenix Hawai‘i Campus, enrolled in the bachelor of science in nursing program. Her goal is to be a resource for hospitals as a clinical instructor and specialize in labor and delivery.
“I am honored to accept the Excellence in Nursing Scholarship,” said Partida. “Thanks to University of Phoenix, I will be a more attractive candidate in the workforce. My education is providing me with invaluable hands-on experience in providing quality and attentive healthcare.”
For Mack, continuing his education to become a nurse was a life-changing decision. He developed a passion for quality medical care when his stepfather was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2004. That experience led him to pursue a career in nursing. Mack is currently taking classes for his bachelor of science in nursing at University of Phoenix Hawai‘i Campus and plans to pursue a master’s degree.
“It is with gratitude and pride that I receive this scholarship,” said Mack. “My education has already given me so many opportunities. Most importantly, I am preparing for a career that will allow me to provide care with dignity and compassion.”
“We commend Crystal, Jonathan and their classmates at University of Phoenix College of Nursing,” Averill said, “for pursuing advanced nursing education and are honored to award them each with this scholarship.”
The University of Phoenix Excellence in Nursing scholarship program was open to all students currently enrolled in a degree program with University of Phoenix College of Nursing. Eligibility requirements included a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and a valid unencumbered RN license.
For more information on the University of Phoenix, go to www.phoenix.edu.
