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Nurses are heroes to their patients, and often to their own family members as well. The children and grandchildren of St. ����ֱ�� University’s nursing graduates grow up observing these outstanding healthcare workers touching countless lives, healing and comforting patients and loved ones alike with compassion and expertise. It’s no wonder many grow up to follow in their footsteps to continue their family’s tradition of service toward others.

We spoke with six families of multi-generational St. Kate’s nursing graduates to learn about their experiences, favorite memories, why they are proud to be a St. Kate’s nursing graduate, and what it means to be a part of a family of St. Kate’s nurses. We are honored to share their stories and are proud of all of our outstanding St. Kate’s nurses.

In 2019, Irita watched her daughter, Danyel (Downs) Braziel, walk across the same stage as she received her bachelor of science in nursing degree. Danyel — who won the “Rising Star” award at the 2020 Minnesota March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Awards event — now works at the same healthcare organization as her mom, which Irita calls “an indescribable blessing.” Danyel says, “I am proud to be a St. Kate’s nursing graduate, because I know that I was prepared to lead in spaces that are not always designed for me. My education was grounded in leadership, and I am confident in my education and skills that I gained through my time at St. Kate's.”

After her service in the Air Force and a career as an RN and nurse leader in healthcare organizations, Sarah is now an assistant professor of nursing and clinical experience liaison at St. Kate’s. “St Kate’s has a long, rich history. I am proud to be a part of it. I count myself as one of those nurses who have made a huge difference in the lives of others,” says Sarah.

“My favorite memory while at St Kate’s was the campus atmosphere. The faculty, staff, and fellow ����ֱ��s were so friendly and caring,” recalls Nimo.

Due to the pandemic, Hibo Ahmed’s graduate ����ֱ�� experience at St. Kate’s has been different, as she has had most of her classes and interactions virtually. “Although this was not the ideal experience, teachers and other faculty members were very welcoming and understanding,” Hibo says. Both women are proud of St. Kate’s involvement in the community and commitment to social justice, as well as the University’s academic legacy. “I love when my patients say, ‘Oh, I heard that’s a great school!’ when I tell them I’m a St. ����ֱ�� University ����ֱ��,” says Hibo.

While Megan was studying for her master of science in nursing at St. Kate’s, she completed her nursing preceptorship in the oncology unit at Fairview Southdale Hospital. “It was an incredible experience,” Megan says. “This opportunity played a huge role in my decision to pursue oncology nursing post-graduation.” Both Megan and GeorgAnn are proud to be St. Kate’s graduates and be part of the University’s legacy as a family. As Megan says, “I am proud to be a part of a community that honors the practice of nursing as an opportunity for service. It is a privilege to transform this call to serve into practice.”

Liz is incredibly proud of Mary Claire for choosing nursing, “not only because it’s the same path I took, but because I see so many ways in which a nurse can do God’s work in service to others; she has been given that great gift.” During her time at St. Kate’s, Liz appreciated the passion and nursing theory from her instructors. “My education prepared me to be a professional nurse, to understand that a holistic approach to caring for the patient was broader than what was seen at first glance,” she says.

Summer’s family connection with St. Kate’s starts with her grandmother, Terri Schwintek — who graduated with her associate degree in nursing in 1986— and continues with her aunt and guardian, Lindsay Schipper. “My favorite memory is going to campus with my mom in the early 1980s as she pursued her nursing degree,” Lindsay says. “This is where my story began, and I eventually found my way back to St. Kate’s.”

Lindsay received not only her bachelor of science in nursing and master of arts in nursing education from St. Kate’s, but she is also currently studying for her doctor of nursing practice at the University while Summer is finishing her bachelor's. “When I returned to St. Kate’s to complete my Master of Arts in Nursing Education, I knew my ultimate goal was to support nursing ����ֱ��s,” Lindsay says. “I felt genuinely cared for by the faculty at St. Kate's and do to this day. They challenge you to limits you do not feel capable of, but are with you every step of the way, even on the most grueling days when you question it all.”

Terri passed away before Summer was born, but Summer’s strong bond to her aunt and their nursing legacy has built a connection to Terri. “Being a future Katie nursing graduate has led to me to reflect on the culmination of nurses in my life who have each poured into me, and the gifts I will be able to offer others because of them,” Summer reflects. “The nurse I will become one day is not merely a product of the nursing program I choose, but the women in my life who have paved the path for me.”