Class of 2025 Honors Recipients
Congratulations to the UNC School of Nursing Class of 2025 honors recipients and the Alph Alpha Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International grant recipients! Your exceptional work and dedication to nursing research are a shining example of the future of the nursing profession.
*highest honors
Ujala Abdul
Systematic Review of Active Healing: Evaluating the Impact of Physical Activity on Quality of Life in Children with Leukemia
Advisor: Rachel Hirschey, PhD, RN, FAAN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing as a career because of my own childhood experiences in the hospital. As a frequent patient, I was comforted by the nurses who patiently explained each step of my care, easing my fear and uncertainty. Their compassion and reassurance during such a vulnerable time had a profound impact on me. I realized I wanted to provide that same sense of comfort and safety to others in their moments of need. Nursing is an incredibly rewarding field, allowing me to support and advocate for patients during their most challenging times, just as those nurses did for me.
*Ricarte Jin Atienza
Comparison of Syncytin-1 and Selected Cytokine Levels in Serum Samples of Patients With Schizophrenia and Healthy Controls
Advisor: Rose Mary Xavier, PhD, MS, RN, PMHNP-BC, FAAN, FAANP
Why did you choose nursing?
I always believed people can experience affliction rather than just diseases alone. They might not have access to resources to manage their condition, or knowledge that could improve their quality of life. Nursing, to me, is a profession that gives holistic respect to a person’s biopsychosocial needs and aims to tackle all sorts of afflictions. That strong belief motivated me to take up nursing, as I wanted to be in a profession that can actively aim to help people in physiological needs and beyond. In a sense, I wanted to be able to help people in more ways than one.
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Linnea Conway
Evaluating the Accuracy of Large Language Models for Lay Public Queries About Myocardial Infarction Symptoms and Treatment Options
Advisor: Leslie Davis, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, FAAN, FAANP, FACC, FAHA, FPCNA
Why did you choose nursing?
I have always been fascinated by the medical field and the pathophysiology of disease. What draws me to nursing is its patient-centered approach. Nurses have the unique opportunity to spend significant time with patients, allowing them to offer empathy and advocacy in care. This time also enables nurses to notice subtle changes in a patient’s condition, leading to early identification and prompt treatment. I am passionate about helping others, and as a nurse, I can address my patient’s physical and emotional needs to improve their outcomes and enhance their experience in the healthcare setting.
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Hannah Davis
Breastfeeding and Type I Diabetes: A Scoping Review
Advisor: Catherine Crawford, PhD, RNC-OB
Why did you choose nursing?
I have a passion for seeing and doing good for people, and the nursing field gives me the opportunity to pursue that passion. I wanted to make connections with people and work in a profession that every day felt like I was making a positive impact. As well, I think everyone should have the ability to be educated about their health condition, medications he or she is receiving, and the care he or she is receiving in order for them to have an active say in their healthcare. Therefore, I wanted to be on the forefront of making this change for patients.
View PosterFatoumata Binta Diallo
The Impact of an Educational Session on Nursing Students’ Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes Related to Female Genital Mutilation
Advisor: Lisa Woodley, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, CHPN
Why did you choose nursing?
Growing up in America as the daughter of a mother who immigrated from Guinea in West Africa, I was taught the importance of humility, kindness, passion, and hard work. These values are at the core of what it means to be a nurse; therefore, nursing has never just been a career choice to me, but a calling. Nursing also offers me the opportunity to serve as representation to patients and their families. I am dedicated to being a nurse who listens, advocates, and builds meaningful connections with patients, especially those who may feel like they do not always have a voice.
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Erin Duty
Infection Risk Associated with Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation and Diabetes Mellitus: An Integrative Review
Advisor: Michael Bury, DNP, MSN, RN, CCRN
Why did you choose nursing?
As a kid, I was always fascinated by science and the human body, which led me to pursue a career in healthcare. I chose nursing because it’s the only role where you are constantly at the bedside providing care and advocating for patients throughout their hospital stay. I wanted to be close to my patients, building real connections during some of the hardest days of their lives. Nursing puts me in a unique position to bring comfort, support, and healing when people need it most.
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Kyndall Estep
Fostering Future Healthcare Professionals: Evaluating Impact of a Health Professions Mentorship Program
Advisor: Nancy Jo Thompson, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
My decision to pursue nursing stemmed from a deep interest in healthcare and a desire to serve others. Nursing fulfills both passions, allowing me to alleviate burdens and provide care as I would for my own family. Although I didn’t initially choose this path, I’m grateful for the journey. Nursing presents constant challenges that spur growth and enable me to make a difference in patients’ lives. By guiding and caring for patients, I empower them to be active participants in their healthcare journey. Through nursing, I strive to offer compassion, dignity, and respect. It’s more than a career; it’s a calling to serve humanity.
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Aishah Faraj
The Effectiveness of Digital Tracking Platforms for Diabetes and Other Chronic Disease Management
Advisor: Beth Cosgrove, PhD, CPNP-PC, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing for several reasons. Growing up in a third-world country, I experienced firsthand the lack of healthcare access and quality care. I’ve witnessed family and friends being denied treatment. Having lived through a war, I saw people in critical conditions, and observing nurses and healthcare professionals provide care inspired me to want to help. My grandfather had diabetes, which was poorly managed due to inadequate health education, leading to complications and his death. These experiences fueled my desire to become a nurse who advocates for patients, educates them, and provides the highest quality care to improve health outcomes.
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Helen Gaitan
Exploring the Current Rate of Epidural Use in Hispanic Women in the United States: An Integrative Review
Advisor: Kandyce Brennan, DNP, CNM
Why did you choose nursing?
Nothing ever seemed as correct of a fit other than nursing to me. Being able to work alongside patients and provide them holistic, patient-centered care has always spoken to me. Through my time as a volunteer doula and time at UNC SON, I have been able to discover my passion for taking care of patients and their families during their most vulnerable and life-changing moments in the childbirth setting. I hope that through nursing I can make a lasting and positive difference in the lives of our patients.
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Dania Gonzalez Santos
Integrative Review: Evaluating the Impact of Probiotics as a Preventive Factor for Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Premature Infants
Advisor: Lisa Woodley, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, CHPN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose to go into nursing because growing up in Honduras, my home country, I witnessed my grandmother’s battle with diabetes. She passed away without receiving enough diabetes education and access to resources, which had a profound impact on me. This experience fueled my passion to become a nurse—to care for patients who are critically ill, advocate for those unable to speak up for themselves, and educate others. As a mother of two boys, my passion has only grown stronger, motivating me to become a Carolina nurse and dedicate myself to serving the Latinx community with the highest level of care and compassion.
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*Grace Hewitt
Parenting in the Context of Adversity: The Role of Social Risk and Parent-Child Interactions in Early Childhood Emotional and Behavioral Outcomes
Advisor: Cathi Propper, PhD
Why did you choose nursing?
In thinking about what motivated me to choose nursing, the answer is clear: while nursing is an indisputably noble profession, what truly drew me in was the deep, personal fulfillment that comes from dedicating my life to the service of others. From a young age, I felt an innate calling to care, to advocate, and to support those in need. This instinct only grew stronger as I witnessed the profound impact of compassionate care during life’s most vulnerable moments. For me, nursing is more than a career; it’s a purpose, a privilege, and a lifelong commitment to making a difference.
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Claire Hussey
Mind-Body Therapies to Reduce Burden of Sickle Cell Disease for Pediatric Patients: An Integrative Review
Advisor: Beth Cosgrove, PhD, CPNP-PC, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing because, to me, it is the ideal combination of my academic interests and personal values. Nursing is unique in that it requires a thorough understanding of science and physiology, as well as steadfast dedication to caring for and protecting others. As a nurse, I can continuously learn about the complexities of the human body and how to best address them. At the same time, I can be a person’s advocate through their most difficult days, supporting them even when they feel they can no longer support themselves. I can’t imagine doing anything else.
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Apollos Lee
Empowering Patients and Families: Development of a Cardiac Surgery Multimedia Educational Website
Advisor: Maureen Baker, PhD, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
“Care about caring.” These three words resound the anthem of the nurses who cared for my younger brother who has a heart condition, spending months in the NICU/PCICU. During that period, my parents being properly informed enhanced their advocacy for my brother. I am passionate about patient advocacy and empowerment through timely and pertinent education. For me, nursing means having the privilege to provide quality care for someone’s sibling, parent, or grandparent and being a listening ear or encouraging voice during people’s most difficult circumstances. Starting as a CTICU nurse, I would say I have a heart for heart patients.
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Mia Maola
Workplace Violence and New Graduate Nurse Retention: Strategies for Support and Prevention
Advisor: Nancy Jo Thompson, DNP, MSN, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
Ever since I was little, my family always told me I’d make a great nurse. I’ve always been a social person who loves connecting with others. But it wasn’t until my grandfather got sick in high school and moved in with my family that I truly fell in love with healthcare. I went to all his cardiology appointments, managed his medications, and helped oversee his diabetes care. That experience opened my eyes to the impact healthcare professionals have—not just in treating illness, but in providing comfort, education, and advocacy. Nursing is more than just a career; it’s about forming meaningful relationships with patients and being there in their most vulnerable moments. Whether it’s easing pain, holding a hand, or explaining a diagnosis in a way that makes sense, every interaction matters. I thrive in fast-paced environments that challenge me to think critically while providing compassionate care. Nursing is like a puzzle—requiring problem-solving, teamwork, and heart. Every shift brings new challenges, new lessons, and new opportunities to grow. It’s a career that shapes your mindset, builds resilience, and reminds you of what truly matters in life. That’s why I chose nursing.
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Joanna Morris
Psychological Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Systematic Review
Advisor: Ya-Ke Wu, PhD, RN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing because I am driven by the opportunity to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives, providing support and care in their most vulnerable moments. It offers endless opportunities for growth, lifelong learning, and advocacy. Ultimately, nursing is more than a career, but a lifelong commitment that fosters both personal and professional growth.
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Elizabeth Olan Lopez
Experiences of Recently Delivered Latinx Clients in Robeson County with Postpartum Mood Disorder (PPMD) Resources and Support
Advisor: Catherine Crawford, PhD, RNC-OB
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing because of its endless opportunities, direct patient care, and the impact it has on communities. As a first-generation Latina student, I have witnessed the challenges individuals face in accessing adequate healthcare. A personal experience during my hospitalization highlighted these disparities and the necessity for effective communication in healthcare. I aspire to represent my Latinx community, ensuring they receive compassionate and quality patient-centered care. My experiences in nursing school have deepened my appreciation for life, and I want to continue to make a positive impact on individuals’ lives. I am honored to soon call myself a Carolina Nurse!
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*Georgia Queen
Compassion Fatigue Prevalence and Prolonged Hospitalization: A Qualitative Analysis of Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions
Advisor: Michael Bury, DNP, MSN, RN, CCRN
Why did you choose nursing?
I chose nursing because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful compassionate care can be. Caring for loved ones and watching my mother become a nurse showed me that nursing is more than a career—it’s a calling. It’s about showing up for people at their most vulnerable, with patience, empathy, and strength. I want to be that steady presence for others, to provide the kind of care every person deserves. Nursing gives me a way to turn personal experience into meaningful impact, and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
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Arianna Russell
Helping Hands: An Educational Tool for Decreasing Caregiver Burden in Family Caregivers of Home Hospice Patients
Advisor: Cara Winstead, RN, MPH, COHN-S, FAAOHN
Why did you choose nursing?
I was inspired to go into nursing because of my grandmothers. It was my paternal grandmother’s dream to become a nurse and after my maternal grandmother received a dementia diagnosis, I knew that I wanted a career in healthcare. As a first-generation college student, my opportunity to become a nurse has been built on generations of prayers, and I’m genuinely grateful that I can use my passions for rural health and geriatrics to give back to communities like my own. I’m positive that I made the right decision in choosing nursing and I’m excited to become a Carolina Nurse!
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*Maggie Strother
Evaluating the Accuracy and Bias of Artificial Intelligence Platforms in Providing Laypersons Answers to Symptom-Related Questions: A Simulation Study
Advisor: Leslie Davis, PhD, RN, ANP-BC, FAAN, FAANP, FACC, FAHA, FPCNA
Why did you choose nursing?
I have always been deeply curious about human health, pushing me to continually seek out more knowledge on the topic. Beyond my love for learning, I was drawn to nursing because it allows me to use that knowledge to help people when they need it most. I wanted a career where I could provide not just medical care, but also support, advocacy, and reassurance to patients and families in vulnerable moments. Nursing gives me the opportunity to combine science with compassion, making a real difference in the lives of others.
View PosterSigma Theta Tau International Grant Recipients
Savannah Roberson, BSN, RN, DNP — Video-Based Self-Care Education for Patients With Heart Failure: A Doctor of Nursing Practice Quality Improvement Project | View Poster
Victoria Crowder, PhD, RN — Nutrition, Eating, Mealtimes, and Quality of Life for Older Adults (≥60) With Acute Myeloid Leukemia, Myelodysplastic Syndromes, and Their Care Partners | View Poster
Ya-Ke “Grace” Wu, PhD, RN— Gene Expression of Metabolic Hormones in Disordered Eating After Bariatric Surgery | View Poster
Jean Hammer, DNP, FNP-BC, CNE, OCN — Food Insecurity Among Perinatal People with Substance Use Disorders: Integration of a Clinical Community Partnership | View Poster
Vinisha Dsouza, PhD, MSN, RN — Applying the 3D Model of Culturally Congruent Care to Address Prolonged Grief Disorder: An Embedded Mixed-Methods Study | View Poster
Jean Davison, DNP, FNP-BC, FAAN — Evidence-Based Practice at a Nurse-led Free Mobile Clinic in Partnership with Food Pantries to Address Risk Factors Associated with Food Insecurity | View Poster
Leslie Davis, PHD, ANP -BC, FAAN, FACC — Digital Health Intervention Using Prospective Symptom Monitoring Improves Patient-Reported Outcomes in Adults with a Recent ACS Event | View Poster