A newly announced donation from a Sechelt resident will award $10,000 annually to a Douglas College nursing student who “demonstrates academic and clinical excellence.”
The first Mary Gordon Nursing Award – funded by Gordon, a former registered nurse who graduated from the Royal Columbian Hospital Nursing School – will be presented at Douglas College’s 2020 convocation.
A newly announced donation from a Sechelt resident will award $10,000 annually to a Douglas College nursing student who “demonstrates academic and clinical excellence.” Photo: Shutterstock
It’s the largest award available to students graduating with a bachelor of science in nursing in British Columbia, according to the college.
“Douglas College is so thankful for Mary Gordon’s gift that will encourage future BSN students to excel in their studies, at the same time as exemplifying the essence of the nursing profession: caring, compassion, professional competence and empathy,” said Pam Cawley, dean of health sciences at Douglas College, in a statement.
Gordon’s donation stemmed from her “ongoing passion and support of nursing training and education” in B.C., according to a news release. The former nurse “felt compelled” to continue her parents’ legacy of contributing to social development in the community.
Royal Columbian Nursing School alumnae established an endowment to support one student in 2018, but Gordon’s contribution will also expand that to supporting eight third- and fourth-year students, totalling $12,000.
That award recognizes students who “demonstrate excellence in clinical performance.”
“I hope my gift assists in highlighting the importance of nursing education and encourages the dedication, extensive knowledge, strong commitment to caring and gracious character that nursing requires,” Gordon said in a statement.
