Anne Medley, RN, BSN, CCRN is honored to have been awarded the Geraldine Labecki Scholarship through the Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. This marks a significant milestone in her educational and professional journey which will propel her further towards her aspirations in healthcare administration and quality. Anne's academic journey began at North Iowa Area Community College, where she received her undergraduate education. She is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Healthcare Administration and Quality at MidAmerica Nazarene University (MNU). Her choice of graduate program was influenced by her prior experience with MNU, where she obtained her ADN to BSN degree while pregnant with her first child. The supportive environment and quality education at MNU made it an obvious choice for continuing her education.

Anne's path to nursing was significantly shaped by a personal tragedy. The death of a close friend in high school was a pivotal moment that directed her toward a career in nursing. This profound loss instilled in her a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, guiding her toward a profession where compassion and care are paramount.

With 15 years of overall experience as a Registered Nurse, of which seven years have been spent as a Ventricular Assist Device Coordinator (VAD) at The University of Kansas Health System, Anne has developed a deep understanding of patient care and advanced medical technology. She was honored to receive the Mechanical Circulatory Support Clinician of the Year award in 2023 from the International Consortium of Circulatory Assist Clinicians. Her current role has not only honed her clinical skills but also inspired her to engage in research. She is currently working on a VAD-specific study titled "Human Machine Interface: What the HeartMate 3 Tells Us About the Future," which explores advancements in VAD technology and its implications for patient care.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Anne is actively involved in community service. She leads her daughter's 5th grade Junior Girl Scout troop, fostering leadership and community spirit in young girls. Additionally, she advocates for struggling and dyslexic readers in Lee's Summit, striving to ensure that all children have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Anne's pursuit of her MSN in Healthcare Administration and Quality is driven by a desire to transition into a leadership role within the healthcare system. This degree will equip her with the skills and knowledge necessary to become an exceptional leader, enabling her to implement quality improvements and drive positive changes in healthcare delivery.

Receiving the NEF Scholarship is a tremendous honor and a validation of Anne's dedication to the nursing profession. It provides not only financial support but also a sense of recognition and encouragement. This scholarship empowers her to continue her education without the burden of financial strain, allowing her to focus on her studies and professional development. The Geraldine Labecki Scholarship is a catalyst for Anne Medley's continued growth in nursing and healthcare administration. It enables her to pursue her goals of leadership and excellence in healthcare, contributing to the betterment of her community and the healthcare system as a whole.