Shelagh Smith has many generous commitments to the School of Nursing. Their education programs are intensive and rigorous. The students are met with challenges of balancing their studies, work, volunteer commitments and family responsibilities. It is not an exaggeration to say that without the support of donors, some of our students might not have anywhere to turn for resources to continue their nursing studies. Thankfully, donors such as Shelagh have chosen to support the students because they believe that nursing students have much to give the world. Shelagh is a double alumna of the School receiving her BSN in 1950 and then returning for her MSN more than thirty years later in 1982. Following her master’s degree, Shelagh continued her close connection with the School by becoming a senior nursing instructor for many years. Shelagh remains a highly engaged alumna and emerita and is an active participant at a variety of UBC and School of Nursing events and activities. Shelagh has generously supported a variety of nursing scholarships and funds at the School, and in 2014, she established the Shelagh J Smith Award for Mature Students in Nursing – supporting undergraduate students so that they need not compromise their academic excellence due to financial need. Shelagh often shares the meaningful visits and conversations she enjoys with the student recipients of her award. We are truly honoured by Shelagh’s commitment to the School and nursing students – by her participation, her support, and through the establishment of her student award. |