On Sept. 13, the College of Nursing hosted its annual Donor Recognition Event at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Innovation. This special evening celebrated the generosity of the college’s most loyal supporters. Dean Shakira Henderson opened the evening by recognizing the role donors play in elevating the college. She reflected on the sense of belonging that ties Gator Nurses together, no matter where they are in the world. As Dean Henderson shared, “When we uplift each other, the possibilities are endless in what we can achieve.”

Two nursing students shared their inspiring stories of hard work and success. Alexandria Carey, a third-year PhD student and assistant director at the UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute, discussed how the Dr. Gloria Pickar and the Emanuel and Raidie P. Merdinger Nursing Scholarships empowered her to pursue her academic goals while supporting her family. Her journey highlighted the profound impact of scholarships on nursing students, enabling them to focus fully on their studies and careers. Recent BSN graduate Brison Stevens shared a moving story about his path to nursing, overcoming financial hardships and family struggles to become the first in his family to graduate from college. His gratitude for the Paul J. Shovlain Nursing Scholarship and the Alumni Council Book Award was clear, reminding everyone of the life-changing power of financial support.

Several honors were presented during the evening, including the Preceptor of the Year Awards, which celebrated nurse mentors who have dedicated their time and expertise to guide the next generation of Gator Nursing professionals.

Kaitlyn Shelton, from UF Health Shands’ Blood and Marrow Transplant Unit, was honored for her outstanding commitment to mentoring nursing students. She was praised for creating a welcoming and hands-on learning environment, earning 10 nominations from students and colleagues, overwhelmingly highlighting her empathy and passion for nursing.

Christine J. Moore, from Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, was recognized for her exceptional mentorship of DNP students. She went above and beyond in guiding students, providing them with the opportunity to think critically and develop their own care plans, significantly enriching their educational experience.

Brenda Barton-Wheaton and Dr. Richard Wheaton were honored for their longtime support of the College of Nursing, including their $3 million estate gift to fund research on traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder. Their generosity also led to the creation of two scholarships in honor of two beloved faculty members, benefiting Accelerated BSN students and future nurse practitioners.

In true Gator Nursing spirit, the 2024 UF College of Nursing Reunion Weekend was an unforgettable celebration of community and gratitude. Held over two days, the weekend kicked off with the Donor Recognition Event, followed by the Reunion Weekend Tailgate.

The festivities continued on Sept. 14 with the annual Reunion Weekend Tailgate, where alumni, faculty, students, and friends gathered at the Harrell Medical Education Building. This year’s tailgate was especially meaningful as it marked Dean Henderson’s first-ever tailgate experience, both for the College of Nursing and personally. With more than 230 people in attendance, it was a fun day for all who could join, despite a Gator loss against Texas A&M in the Swamp.

New vendors helped make the day a success, including a 360 Photo Booth, a cotton candy machine, a face painter, and Heads and Tails — a Gator-themed merchandise vendor offering clothing, jewelry, and more. The Alumni Council Book Awards Scholarship recognized 13 Alumni Council Book Award winners, who received $1,000 scholarships to support their nursing education.

The weekend was a reminder of how Gator Nursing alumni, students, and supporters continue to come together to uplift the college and each other.