May 12, 2024
The Sister Mary Lou Podzimek Award is the highest honor conferred upon the graduate who—in addition to a GPA of 3.0 or above—has exemplified leadership, collaboration, and integrity. The award is named for Sister Mary Lou Podzimek, who continues to be part of the Mount Mercy community after more than 70 years—as a Sister of Mercy and as a former administrator, Board member emeritus, and Mount Mercy alum.
Director of Graduate Nursing Programs Dr. Julie Shaw noted Kay has a passion for excellence in patient care and promoting patient autonomy. She has worked as a nurse at Mercy Medical Center and recently completed a quality improvement project in the community that focused on educating adults on end-of-life goals, addressing the need for patients to have an opportunity to clearly state their goals for care before it’s too late.
Dr. Shaw noted Kay "is a positive influence both in and out of her classroom. She has been an advocate for the program with administration, faculty, and our Board of Trustees. Her positive and mature perspective on graduate school was a welcomed addition in class."
Dr. Shaw went on to note, "She has maintained a 4.0 GPA and will continue to serve our community with the excellence that is emblematic of all Mount Mercy nurses. She reflects genuine pride in herself and in Mount Mercy University in every encounter she has."
Congratulations, Kay!