Laura D. Smith National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) Scholarship
For Current or Former NSNA Members Pursuing a Graduate Degree in Nursing Education or PhD in Nursing
This scholarship honors Laura D. Smith, who was instrumental in the birth and early development of the NSNA. Ms. Smith was initially a clinical nurse. After earning her master’s degree, she joined the staff of the American Journal of Nursing (AJN), ultimately becoming Senior Editor in 1959. She championed the accomplishments of student nurses through the “Student Page” in the AJN.
The award is given to an applicant enrolled in a master's in nursing education, a PhD in nursing, or an EdD in nursing program, who was an NSNA member in their pre-licensure nursing program, and has demonstrated excellence in nursing scholarship and service.
Featured Laura D. Smith National Student Nurses' Association (NSNA) Scholarship Recipients
In addition to achieving academic excellence, the graduate nursing students who receive this scholarship display a commitment to community service as they advance on their path to becoming nurse leaders. These three featured scholarship recipients exemplify this attribute by providing service to their schools, peers, and community at large:
Rachel Rockecharlie
- Has been actively involved in student organizations and service initiatives, including the Student Nurses’ Association of Virginia and peer health education programs
- Practices as a registered nurse in a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she provides care for critically ill and premature infants with complex medical needs
- Works alongside other DNP students on a quality improvement project focused on improving follow-up visit adherence for medically vulnerable patients receiving care through a mobile clinic
Erin Wallace
- Has been a dedicated Registered Nurse for over 15 years, working full-time in the Emergency Department at the Department of Veterans Affairs
- Participates in community outreach, including volunteering with Stand Down San Diego, an organization serving homeless veterans
- Recognized through several honors, including the National HERO Award, multiple Preceptor of the Year awards, and DAISY Awards for compassionate care
Jasmine M. Blunt
- While at Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, served as a Source Service Scholar and E-Board Member of the National Black Student Nurses Association, served as a leader with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing as a Graduate Nursing Student Academy Liaison and Advocacy Leader, and received the Community and Primary Care Area of Excellence Award and the Cohen Scholars Award
- Aided in promoting education throughout Baltimore by spearheading the creation of a Mathematics Tutoring Lab for primary and secondary students and advanced health literacy in Baltimore City by assisting with the organization of community health fairs for vulnerable populations