On April 17, the University of South Carolina hosted the annual Student Awards Day on the Historic Horseshoe lawn. This tradition is a celebration of the outstanding achievements of our remarkable students. The College of Nursing recognizes those who have demonstrated excellence in academics, research, service, clinical performance, leadership and community engagement. The awards given this year are as follows:
Elizabeth (Eliza) was awarded for her exceptional dedication to nursing science. From conducting a pandemic-era stress study as a freshman to completing a Mini-Magellan-funded Honors thesis on resilience in nursing students, Eliza has consistently demonstrated a passion for meaningful research. Her continued involvement with the TEAM-PA research group and commitment to scholarly growth makes her a standout early nursing scholar.
Outstanding Service to the College of Nursing: Carolina Wilson
This award is given to the student who has consistently volunteered time for the improvement
of the college, university, and the nursing profession.
Carolina received the Outstanding Service to the College of Nursing Award for her
exceptional leadership and dedication to enhancing the student experience. As a College
of Nursing Ambassador and Student Nurses Association (SNA) Community Health Director,
she led heartfelt initiatives like delivering Valentine’s Day cards to patients at
Prisma Health Children’s Hospital and helped shape the future of the college's ambassadors
program. Her service has made a meaningful and lasting impact on the college community.
Outstanding Undergraduate Clinical Performance Award: Emily Holmes
This award is presented to a student who has displayed evidence of a high level of critical thinking in the clinical area and/or extraordinary patient-centered care.Emily's dedication to the field is evident in her role as a nurse extern at Piedmont Medical Center in Rock Hill, where she has excelled across multiple hospital units, including MedSurg, OB/L&D/NICU, ED, PCU and ICU. Her instructors and patients consistently recognized her as an exceptional care provider, highlighting her adaptability, critical thinking and compassionate approach to patient care. Emily received positive feedback from her clinical instructors, who commend her strong clinical judgment, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Outstanding Undergraduate Community Service Award: Nicole Hurley
This award is given for evidence of sustained community service either within a group
or individually.
During her first year, Nicole dedicated time to support children with disabilities
at Camp Rise Above and Camp Cole. For three years she volunteered at Prisma Health
Children’s Hospital and fundraised for Dance Marathon. Nicole contributed to meal
service at Transitions Homeless Shelter and offered care and support through the Free
Medical Clinic. As the Carolina Closet director for the Gamecock Community Shop, she
organized free professional clothing access for students while overseeing more than
100 volunteers. Nicole's leadership and dedication reflect a deep commitment to serving
others and inspiring future health care professionals.
Outstanding Undergraduate Leadership Award: Sophia Johnson
This award is given to the outstanding student who has consistently been recognized
by peers, faculty, and organizations as an excellent leader.
Sophia was honored with this award for her unwavering dedication to serving others
throughout her timeat the college. Whether volunteering at St. Jude’s in Charlotte,
mentoring peers through her church or in the SNA, Sophia has exemplified both compassion
and leadership. Her ability to balance academic excellence with meaningful community
impact makes her a true inspiration in the field of nursing.
The Undergraduate Nursing Impact Award: Camryn Cothran
This award is given to the student who contributes to the development of nursing's mission of advocacy to support health equity and social justice, particularly for vulnerable populations.Camryn was recognized with this award for her outstanding advocacy and leadership in promoting health equity and social justice. As SNA's Breakthrough to Nursing Director, she spearheaded inclusive programming, launched mentorship opportunities, and fostered meaningful peer support initiatives. Camryn made a lasting impact within the USC Nursing community. Her dedication to culturally competent care and her passion for empowering others embodies the spirit of this award.