The College of Nursing and Health Sciences acknowledged students’ outstanding accomplishments at the annual Honors Day on May 19.

Dean Patricia Prelock opened the ceremony, thanking students’ families for allowing the college to nurture and support the students’ intellectual lives.

“Our students are emerging scholars and practitioners, they are persistent, driven but balanced, and on their way to creating a destiny for themselves that will bring them great joy, engagement and satisfaction,” she said. “It has been a privilege to see you evolve as learners and leaders.”

Award recipients were as follows:

Dean’s Awards

Dean’s Outstanding Undergraduate Student – Honors an undergraduate student who has demonstrated exemplary professional growth and contributions during their tenure at UVM: Joshua Hutz

A third year nursing student, Hutz had several nominations by his peers describing him as a true professional who shows genuine concern for his patients.

“Josh has been exemplary in his role as a student while also supporting his own family and meeting the needs of patients on his job,” said Dean Prelock. “He has also played an important role as mentor to his undergraduate classmates consistently offering assistance and support to other students in program who need clarification or encouragement during tough moments in their learning experience.”

Dean’s Outstanding Graduate Student  - Recognizes a graduate student who has demonstrated exemplary professional growth and contributions during their tenure at UVM: Rachel DeSimone

A third year Doctor of Physical Therapy student, DeSimone is a class leader who explores issues of social justice in the healthcare community. As a direct result of Rachel’s persistence and dedication to inclusive excellence, students and faculty made significant changes in the images they used in public and classroom presentations so that they were more inclusive and representative of diversity.

One of her  clinical instructors described her as “a self-directed learner, accepts all learning experiences presented, and does an excellent job managing each patient’s care.”

Dean’s Award for Inclusive Excellence – Recognizes a student who has made a major contribution to create an environment of social just inclusion and equity: Alicia Gusan

During Gusan’s time at the University of Vermont, she has been involved in numerous organizations that have enriched her understanding of her own social identities and disparities. She participated in the President’s Commission on Inclusive Excellence and the CNHS Committee on Inclusive Excellence, served on the National Eating Disorders Awareness Walk and Living Well’s Student Advisory Board and volunteered for campus clubs including Voices of Planned Parenthood and Students Against Sexual Violence.

 “I do this work to be an advocate for a world that supports its most vulnerable members, and provides them with opportunities to grow, heal, and feel whole. I hope to be involved in creating policies that keep communities inclusive and just,” Gusan said.

Said Prelock,” I have had the privilege and honor to work with Alicia and can think of no one more capable of pushing me and others to think more critically about how we tackle issues of inclusive excellence in the College … We know she will be a phenomenal nurse.”

Dean’s Distinguished Alumni Award - Honors an alumna or alumnus of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences for professional accomplishment, service and/or career and lifetime achievement: Amanda Pelkey ’15 Exercise Science

Pelkey is the first Catamount to earn a spot on the U.S. Women’s Ice Hockey team, and helped the United States earn its first gold medal in Women's Hockey during the 2018 Winter Olympics. She had a standout hockey career at UVM from 2011-2015 and remains UVM’s all-time leading women’s scorer.

In presenting the award, Associate Dean Jeremy Sibold said, “As her former professor and advisor, I can tell you she was able to balance a demanding major with the significant demands of her varsity and international ice hockey development with tremendous character and grace, and she gave all of herself in each of these endeavors. She has combined her athletic gift, together with her academic field of study, to single handedly advance women’s ice hockey, and women’s athletics in general, to a new level in our country, and internationally.”

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Eleanor M. Luse Graduate Student Award in Communication Sciences and Disorders –Recognizes a graduate student who demonstrates the highest academic achievement, clinical service and professionalism: Alexandra Patch

A second year student, Patch has demonstrated commitment to cultural and linguistic responsivity in LEND and applies these skills in her academic classes and clinical work.

“Alex is a top-notch scholar with a high GPA.  She is a self-motivated learner and willing to take on challenging topics,” said Professor Barry Guitar. “She has an innate sense of engagement that is meaningful to clients and families. She takes the initiative to direct her teaching, receives and integrates feedback and holds high standards for herself and her clients.”

Margaret Kyte Memorial Award – Presented to a graduating undergraduate student for outstanding academic performance: Natalie Ray

Ray earned a 4.0 GPA in her major and a 3.9 overall. She volunteered as a first-aid provider for Special Olympics and as a palliative care provider for dying patients in the hospital.

“I first met Natalie when she was a student in my Speech and Hearing Sciences class two years ago.  She performed brilliantly on lab exercises, exams, quizzes, and always had something insightful to say in class,” Guitar said. “As my TA, Natalie organized herself and my other TAs to give at-night review sessions before every exam … and provided counseling to those students who needed extra help. She is a natural born leader.”

Vermont Speech-Language-Hearing Association Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award - Awarded to the senior who shows the most outstanding clinical promise: Bonnie Purtill

Purtill entered UVM as a Presidential Scholar and she maintained Dean’s List status throughout her academic career.

“We are proud not only of Bonnie’s scholarship but also of the work she has done interning in the Audiology clinic here on campus.  After two semesters of interning as a senior, Bonnie now performs at the level of a graduate student, independently working with patients, evaluating their hearing, and providing treatment for their hearing loss,” said Professor Liz Adams.

Communication Sciences and Disorders Award for Excellence - Awarded to a graduating senior for demonstrated excellence in scholarship, leadership and professional promise: Leah Brush

Brush is well-known to our faculty for her enthusiastic drive to make a meaningful impact in the community. She was a member of the CSD honor society, she made the Dean’s list in fall of 2016, and she was engaged in research with children on the autism spectrum. To advocate for family- and patient-centered care, Leah represented the student voice at our Interprofessional Education (or IPE) Committee planning meetings.

“Leah is a most deserving recipient who shows tremendous promise for achievement as a speech-language pathologist and leader in our field,” said Professor Danra Kazenski. “We are proud to claim you as a graduate of our department, and we know you will continue to stand tall as a force to be reckoned with in your professional career.”

Department of Biomedical and Health Sciences

Scholastic Achievement in Medical Laboratory Science Award - Given by the UVM Medical Center’s Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine to the senior student with the highest grade point average in the Medical Laboratory Science program: Katelyn Reilly

While at UVM, Reilly has been a resident advisor on campus developing safe, inclusive communities for residents, a research assistant in the emergency medicine research associate program, where she screened patients that came into the emergency department for hospital research studies, a microbiology teaching assistant, and involved in the Pre-PA club.

“The MLS program has prepared me well for my clinical rotations and for a future in the field. I’d say it’s due to the high expectations and support of our department faculty, always pushing us for our best and not accepting any less, Reilly said. 

F.W. Van Buskirk Award - Recognizes the senior student with the highest grade point average in the Nuclear Medicine Technology program: Mariah Adam

In addition to being in a challenging major, Adam took on the additional challenge of pursuing a math minor. She has been hired at Central Vermont Medical Center as a nuclear medicine technologist.

“Mariah is also one of the hardest working students that I’ve had the pleasure to work with and she has certainly stepped up to the challenge here at UVM,” said Ken Allen, director of the Nuclear Medicine Technology Program. “She has also been a member of the UVM gymnastics squad, helping her team this year to earn 1^st place in the Eastern Division.”

F.W. Van Buskirk Award - Recognizes the senior student with the highest grade point average in the Radiation Therapy program: Stephanie Ducharme

Ducharme demonstrated the best overall academic performance in the radiation therapy program, maintaining a 3.62 GPA.

“She chose radiation therapy because she loves the advancing technology and enjoys the sense of truly helping people,” said Professor Wade Carson. “She was always prepared for class and if asked a question, she very quietly gave the correct answer.”

Clinical Achievement in Nuclear Medicine Technology Award - Given in recognition of outstanding qualities of professional attitude and cooperation in the patient care setting: Brett Muench

Muench’s clinical supervisor at his senior practicum site wrote, “We are not surprised to hear that Brett has won the Clinical Achievement Award.  From the moment he came into our department, we knew Brett was a strong student.  He was willing to take on any task that we gave him. He would do his own research and show up prepared for the task. ... He will be an amazing asset to his future employer.”

Clinical Achievement in Radiation Therapy Award – Recognizes the outstanding qualities of professional attitude and cooperation in the patient care setting: Caitlin Bernier

After her mother was diagnosed with melanoma, and others in her family had gone through a cancer diagnosis, Bernier knew that her career needed to be helping others and using her compassionate personality. 

“Caitlin jumps in without being asked and works hard to be more proficient and displays a professional attitude,” wrote the radiation therapist Bernier worked with at UVMMC.

Department of Nursing

University of Vermont Medical Center Award for Innovation in Clinical Practice - Presented to a graduating master’s-level Nursing student who demonstrates innovation in practice and breakthrough initiative in patient care or patient education, or care coordination across the continuum: Catherine Hinojosa

For her DNP project, Assessing Need for Primary Care Services at a Needle Exchange Program: Safe Recovery, Hinojosa worked with patients, clinicians and staff at a harm reduction facility.

“Catherine’s passion for working with this vulnerable population was inspirational, said Professor Stuart Whitney, undergraduate nursing program vice-chair. Her project “exemplified innovation in practice that enhances the health and well-being of those we serve.”

Vermont State Nurses' Association Clinical Excellence Undergraduate Award - Presented to a graduating student who, in the opinion of the faculty, best demonstrates outstanding clinical practice: Alexander Brannon

Brannon consistently maintained a high GPA while playing UVM club lacrosse. He was a patient care attendant for a local young man and volunteered for the Culinary Classic Cancer Patient Support Foundation

Brannon’s clinical instructor wrote, “Alex is a very engaged learner who readily seeks out learning opportunities and challenges. His strong communication skills, in addition to his kind and caring demeanor enable him to easily establish a rapport with his patients, their families and other health care professionals. 

Vermont State Nurses' Association Clinical Excellence Graduate Award - Presented to a graduating student who, in the opinion of the faculty, best demonstrates outstanding clinical practice: Elsa Ingpen

Ingpen’s DNP project highlighted the need for awareness and identification of Adverse Childhood Events within a community and a rural health care setting.    

“Elsa was a standout as a well prepared and enthusiastic student who was eager for any clinical experience that she was faced with,” Whitney said. “Her social work background and nursing experiences at Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital, while simultaneously working as a school nurse and attending graduate school full time, while raising four children as a single mother,” shows her dedication to the field.

Vermont Organization of Nurse Leaders Award - Presented to a graduating master’s-level student who consistently demonstrated outstanding scholarship, completed a thesis/project that advances and disseminates nursing knowledge about a leadership issue in nursing and initiated a career plan that builds on the graduate education foundation to influence the future of nursing: Nick Fredette

Fredette proposed, developed and implemented a new interprofessional palliative care program at the long-term care facility where he worked. He created an evidence- based set of policies to aid in the identification and management of residents requiring these services and then provided in-service education for the staff.

“Nick is a thoughtful leader who respected all of the personnel involved in order to create buy-in of his project at all levels. This award recognizes his ability to be an innovative leader, as well as a caring provider,” Whitney said.

Clarissa Peters Allen Award - Presented to an outstanding graduating undergraduate student who exemplifies the conscientious, motivated character of Clarissa Peters Allen: Caitlin Hester

Hester has received many honors during her time at UVM, including the 2017 Department of Nursing Chair’s Award, American Legion Military Scholastic Award and Distinguished Military Student Graduate Award. In addition, she was appointed to lead her ROTC peers as the Cadet/Battalion Commander. In addition to being commissioned as a 2^nd Lieutenant in the US Army Reserves, Caitlin has accepted a position in the critical care unit of Georgetown Hospital.

Her clinical faculty write:  “I was very impressed throughout the rotation by Caitlin’s passion for knowledge, carting nature, positivity, and dedication in providing care. Her calm demeanor, inquisitive mind, detail oriented nature and passion will suit her well in her future nursing career.”

Faye Crabbe Award - Established to honor the memory of the founder of the UVM School of Nursing, a leader who valued nursing scholarship and service. Awarded to the senior majoring in Nursing who excels in scholarship, nursing ability and service to the University: Alicia Gusan

During her time at UVM, Gusan has excelled in the classroom and clinical setting. She was actively involved in the UVM community, volunteering for advocacy organizations and service projects.  

“Where I stand today has been shaped by multiple, kind hearted nursing role models I have encountered with my education here.  I have learned more deeply my drive to care for patients holistically and my ability to maintain an empathetic, compassionate approach to patient needs,” Gusan said.

Visiting Nurse Association Ann K. Twitchell Community Health Services Award - Awarded to a senior in the baccalaureate program who has shown scholarship and excellence in community health services: Scout Hill

Hill’s academic performance and community service has been exemplary. She held memberships in Sigma Theta Tau International Nursing Society, the UVM Student Nurses’ Association, and University of Vermont Books4Equality. She volunteered for the Oxfam Volunteer for Hunger Banquet and the Cancer patient Support Foundation, Culinary Classic. 

“Her consistently positive and enthusiastic attitude has been a welcome addition to any class, group, or clinical setting.   In the classroom she is engaged, attentive, and present,” Whitney said. “We are very proud of her potential for nursing practice and further education at the graduate level.”

University of Vermont Medical Center Award for Excellence in Clinical Nursing Practice - Recognizes a master’s-level student who demonstrates innovation in practice in any setting, breakthrough initiatives in patient care or patient education, or care coordination across the continuum: Bella Walz

In addition to the rigors of the nursing program, Walz was a member of the University of Vermont Brass Ensemble, Latin Jazz Ensemble, and principle chair in the symphony orchestra.  She serves as a board member for the Integrative Health Student Interest Group and gave her time supporting vulnerable populations by stuffing stockings during the Burlington Elves Holiday Drive.

“It is clear she has no tolerance for idle time.  Her work experiences range from nanny to ropes course facilitator, tutor, and caregiver at Shelburne Bay,” said Kate FitzPatrick, CNHS Associate Dean for Interprofessional Practice and Chief Nursing Officer at UVMMC.

Her clinical preceptors in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit wrote,  “Bella brings a unique blend of relational ease with patients and strong clinical care performance.  We would be lucky to have her join our team.”

Department of Rehabilitation and Movement Science

Leadership in Athletic Training Award - Given to a student that has consistently displayed exceptional leadership in the classroom, during clinical assignments, in student government and in the community: Sam Messner

Messner was elected by his peers to become the President of our Student Athletic Medicine Society on campus and played a leading role in orchestrating the first annual VT Athletic Training Student Symposium held at UVM to include students from both Castleton and Norwich Universities.  He demonstrated effective organizational skills with fundraising efforts that resulted in 21 AT students being able to attend the regional 2018 Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association annual conference in Boston. Messner played club football team, served as a student research assistant in the UVM Medical Centers Research Program and held the role of Health and Safety Officer for his Fraternity on campus. He recently passed the National AT board of certification exam and completed the requirements to become an EMT.  

“One of the reasons Sam is so fitting for this award is his passion for knowledge and his excitement about the profession of Athletic Training.  In the classroom and in the clinical setting he has been proactive, taking full responsibility for his own learning,” said Professor Kelly Tourville.

Future Professional in Athletic Training Award - Given to a student who has consistently displayed exceptional leadership in the classroom, during clinical assignments, in student government and in the community: Andrew Segall

Segall served as Vice President of the Student Athletic Medicine Society and was instrumental in fundraising efforts to benefit Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports.  He was selected by faculty to serve on the Deans Undergraduate Student Leadership Council and was a Teaching Assistant for multiple courses.  In his spare time he teaches karate to children.

“Andrew is our first student to earn what I guess we could call an AT Program award ‘trifecta,’” said Tourville.  As a sophomore, he was awarded our Rookie of the Year for his excitement and motivation in the clinical setting. As a junior, he earned our Leadership in AT award because of his natural abilities to guide….  And today as he finishes his undergraduate journey we recognize him with our Future Professional in AT award.” 

Exceptional Senior in Athletic Training Award - Given to a graduating senior who exemplifies scholarly excellence in the classroom as well as in his or her clinical assignments and has shown the potential to be a leader in the field of athletic training: Kendra Lennon

A member of the Honors College, Lennon successfully defended her thesis which involved an MRI analysis to study changes in knee cartilage during the onset of post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis. She participated on the UVM club crew team and volunteered with Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports and Vermont Special Olympics.

“Kendra is one of the most genuine individuals that I have ever met. Her interpersonal style draws others in and makes them feel at ease,” said Tourville.  “Academically she sets the bar high for herself and has demonstrated a diligent and proactive approach to her studies. I have no doubt that she will make a significant impact and become a leader in the field of Sports Medicine as a highly respected health care professional.”

Isola Braun Award- Awarded to the third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student who has demonstrated the greatest potential for development of professional competency and leadership: Jessica Nason

Nason was selected to participate in the Leadership Education Neurodevelopment and related Disabilities  (LEND) program, which aims to improve the health of infants, children and adolescents with disabilities. Additionally, she collaborated with faculty and peers on a research project that led to the development of an evidence based comprehensive care plan for individuals with emotional trauma and chronic pain.

“In addition to her passion to practice in pediatrics, Jessica made a strong commitment to engage in learning across all specialty areas of physical therapist practice throughout the program and excelled academically as evident by her 3.94 GPA,” said Professor Barb Tschoepe.

Margaret B. Corbin Award - Awarded to the third-year Doctor of Physical Therapy student who has demonstrated high quality academic and clinical performance throughout the professional curriculum: Emily Slabinski

Slabinski completes the rigorous DPT program with a 3.88 GPA. She participated in the 2017 International manual therapy collaborative in New Zealand.

One of Emily’s acute care rotation clinical instructors shared, “Emily is very knowledgeable in her field, she does not hesitate to ask questions or seek feedback when she is in an unfamiliar situation. She develops excellent rapport with patients and collaborates well with other members of the rehabilitation team. Emily does not fluster easily, which is a great quality to have for a busy and sometimes stressful acute care environment”. 

Outstanding Student Achievement in Exercise and Movement Science Award - Given to outstanding seniors who exemplify academic excellence, exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to the profession of exercise science: Emily Park and Kurtis Stoeckel

Park served as a UVM student admissions representative, event director for Kappa Alpha Theta and a personal trainer at campus recreation. She volunteered as a research assistant on a physical activity study, an exercise coach with the UVM Medical Center’s Parkinson’s program and the IDEAL exercise program for community members with multiple sclerosis. She earned a minor in Nutrition and Food Sciences.

Stoeckel served as a teaching assistant for exercise physiology lab courses, research assistant on a physical activity study and volunteered as an exercise coach with the UVM Medical Center’s Parkinson’s program. He completed an internship with the oncology & hematology rehabilitation program at UVM Medical Center.

“What these two have accomplished over their senior year has been nothing short of exceptional,” said Professor Connie Tompkins. “Due to their efforts, UVM will be awarded gold recognition for Exercise Is Medicine On Campus at the by the American College of Sports Medicine. I have no doubt that each will continue to exude their passion and commitment for helping others achieve their optimal health.”

Outstanding Future Professional in Exercise Science – Given to a graduating senior student who is viewed by the EXSC faculty as a positive role model and who has the leadership qualities and professional potential to significantly impact the field of Exercise Science: Kourtney Menches

Menches played on the UVM Women’s Hockey team, which involved grueling practices, games and travel. She served as a member of the Dean’s undergraduate leadership council, a student ambassador on admitted student visit days, a student member on the Academic Integrity Council panel for the UVM Center for Student Ethics and Standards, a research assistant on an intervention study, a volunteer with the Special Olympics and an assistant with UVM’s varsity strength and conditioning. She also attended classes and completed her coursework, every semester earning a 4.0 GPA each and making the Dean’s list.

“During her time there, Kourtney developed detailed workout plans, provided coaching and guidance to student-athletes, and delivered presentations on various training methods to the coaching staff. Kourtney truly exemplifies academic excellence, exceptional leadership, and a strong commitment to the profession of exercise science,” said Tompkins.

College Recognition 

Class of 2018 Commencement Banner Bearer - This student is nominated by peers and faculty to carry the college banner at the university commencement ceremony: Bethany Swanson

University Honors

The University of Vermont Honors College recognizes and encourages academic excellence. The following College of Nursing and Health Sciences students are graduating as University Scholars.

Emily Johnston, Communication Sciences and Disorders,

Ashley Cagir, Medical Laboratory Science,

Marykathryn Conron and Lauren Jarvis, Nursing.

Alexandra Novelli, Rachel Snider and Cayla Hammaker, Exercise and Movement Science, and

Kendra Lennon, Athletic Training

Honor Society Inductees

Sierra Martin’s induction to the Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society