Two years into her career as a nurse at Mayo Clinic, Kaitlin Christian – a Winona State University nursing alumna – is being recognized for her compassion, knowledge, and commitment to care for her patients.
Working in the intensive care unit for cardiac surgery and transplants, Kaitlin was recently nominated for a DAISY Award.
Given to more than 5,000 healthcare organizations nationwide, the nomination recognizes a nurse for being attuned to their patient’s subtle and more obvious needs, finding meaningful ways to ease pain and offer hope, and for exemplifying kindness as role models for others.
“I fell in love with the fast pace and critical thinking of critical care,” Kaitlin said.
Graduating from Winona State in spring of 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Kaitlin said her education within such a well-known nursing program is something she’s proud of.
Her time at Winona State allowed her to discover her passion, have impactful experiences, and build strong connections with fellow nursing students.
Winona State Professor of Nursing Cyndy Jones said faculty take pride in making sure students are taught functional skills that allow them to be high performing in their career.
“We hope our nursing students become compassionate caregivers, thoughtful communicators, and emerging leaders who make a real impact,” Jones said.
Kaitlin is one of many nurses from Winona State being recognized. Alumni Allison DeRome and Jenna (Engelkes) Rees have received the DAISY Award and alumni Lexi Honetschlager and Reisa Snider received nominations for the DAISY Award in January.
Jones says that seeing students from the program achieve meaningful accomplishments like the DAISY Award serves as a reminder of the importance and impact of giving a patient full and undivided attention while in their care.
“Always be open and willing to try new things,” Kaitlin said. “If I didn’t, I would not have the job that I love today.”
For more information about the Department of Nursing, contact Cyndy Jones, Professor of Nursing and Chairperson- Department of Undergraduate Nursing (DUN), at cjones@winona.edu
