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The Student Nurses Association (SNA) at the University of Arkansas at Monticello recently received two awards at the 2024 Arkansas Nursing Students’ Association (ANSA) Annual Convention on the campus of Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, Arkansas. SNA, whose members are current students in the School of Nursing at UAM, won both the Image of Nursing Award and the Breakthrough to Nursing Award.

Fabiola Mondragon, a senior nursing student at UAM, stated, “Winning both the Image of Nursing Award and the Breakthrough to Nursing Award at ANSA is an incredible honor. It highlights the collective effort and dedication of our team to elevate the nursing profession and bring innovation to patient care.”

The Image of Nursing Award recognizes SNA chapters that actively work to improve the public perception of nursing through impactful projects. UAM’s chapter earned this award for their “Feed the Neighbors” initiative, where they partnered with the First United Methodist Church food bank distribution center in Monticello, Arkansas, in November 2023 to support local families in need at Thanksgiving. The nursing students purchased and delivered 70 hams to these families, demonstrating commitment to community service, compassion and the enhancement of public health

Emily McTigrit, a senior nursing student at UAM, stated, “The Image of Nursing Award meant a lot to every member of SNA. Providing hams to the food pantry is something that SNA does every year, and I believe it makes a difference in people’s lives. It warms my heart knowing the efforts of SNA make a difference in our community.”

The Breakthrough to Nursing Award recognizes SNA chapters that excel in recruiting and engaging students in nursing programs of study. UAM’s chapter earned this award for their “Welcome to Nursing: Let’s Taco ’Bout Nursing School” picnic. Through this event, the students collaborated with local community organizations to create a welcoming environment for prospective nursing students. The picnic fostered early connections between nursing students, faculty and community partners.

Dr. Brandy Haley, dean of the School of Nursing at UAM, praised the students for their efforts, stating, “We teach our students the importance of having servant hearts. Nursing is more than just providing healthcare. These awards validate their dedication to serving others.”

For more information about SNA or the School of Nursing at UAM, contact uamnursing@uamont.edu or 870-460-1069.