Nursing and midwifery students announced as first recipients of university awards
A young nurse has been selected as the first recipient of a prestigious new award. Hannah Caina (25) from Inverness, who graduated with a BSc nursing degree with distinction earlier this year, has been selected as the first recipient of the University of the Highlands and Islands’ Chancellor’s Nursing Award.
The award, presented on behalf of the university’s Chancellor, HRH The Princess Royal, recognises Hannah’s determination in the face of adversity and her contribution to the department of nursing and midwifery.
Hannah was nominated for the award by her personal academic tutor, Abbi Tracey. Ms Tracey explained: “Hannah experienced a family emergency that resulted in her becoming the carer and guardian for her younger sister and brother. In the months that followed, Hannah provided both siblings with a huge amount of time and support. For the entirety of her final year, Hannah lived in one bedroom flat with both siblings and her husband. She acknowledges that finding the time and focus for coursework and assessment was hugely challenging. Despite this, she completed her work to a very high standard and gave up her time to help organise a fundraiser for Alzheimer Scotland and represent the views of students in a placement improvement group.”
Hannah, who now works as a nurse in Raigmore Hospital, will receive £100 and an engraved glass award to mark her success. Speaking about her award, she said: “I am absolutely overwhelmed to have received this award. There were times I didn’t think I’d be able to pull through, but nursing is my passion and the one thing I would not give up. Thanks to sheer determination and the amazing support from my husband, the university and my mentors, I managed to complete my degree and have secured my first job. I am loving working as a staff nurse!”
Aimie Davies (31) from Nairn has been selected as the University of the Highlands and Islands nursing student of the year. Aimie, who also graduated from the university’s BSc nursing degree with distinction this year and now works as a nurse with NHS Highland, was commended for her excellent work, her determination and her interpersonal skills.
Aimie was nominated for the award by her personal academic tutor, Marie Cameron. Ms Cameron explained: “It was apparent that Aimie was going to be an exceptional student from the outset. From her first placement, mentors commented on her polite manner, team working, excellent communication and initiative. Her willingness to listen to patients and involve them in decisions, meticulous and organised nature and burgeoning confidence were also noted. Aimie has dealt with personal challenges throughout her three years, but worked incredibly hard to make sure they did not impact on her university work. Her work has always been of the highest standard.”
As the winner of the nursing student of the year award, Aimie will receive £100 and a certificate. Speaking about the award, Aimie commented: “I am so thrilled to have won this award. Over the past three years I have received great support from university staff, mentors and my amazing family. I am enjoying working as a staff nurse and so lucky to be part of the wonderful team in Nairn. I really hope that I can make a difference to people’s lives.”
Fiona Dudgeon (27) from Aviemore received the university’s first ever Royal College of Midwives Award. The prize is given to the highest performing student on the pre-registration shortened midwifery programme. Fiona, who now works in labour suite in Raigmore Hospital, will receive a £50 book token.
To find out more about nursing and midwifery courses at the University of the Highlands and Islands, visit www.uhi.ac.uk