Every week, we see Galen College of Nursing students across the country taking the lessons they learn in class and applying it to the bedside during clinical rotations.

At St. David’s North Austin Medical Center, an HCA Healthcare facility, Galen Austin student Delia Gutierrez was recently celebrated with a Flower Bud Award. This prestigious award goes to nursing students who demonstrate compassion, empathy, and professionalism with patients.

“Delia embodies the very essence of a nurse with a very pleasant, warm disposition led by teacher Shobana (Arockiam),” a patient wrote in the Flower Bud nomination form.

Additionally, another Galen student, Lisbet Fernandez, was honored with a Flower Bud Award, from St. David’s Surgical Hospital. Fernandez, during her clinical rotations, showed leaders how she takes initiative, is involved in patient care, and asks thoughtful questions.

“Her positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm for learning stand out, and she has truly made a great impression on our team,” Felicia Burns, Inpatient Physical Rehab Unit manager said.

In addition to Gutierrez, two of her fellow classmates from Shobana Arackiam’s NUR 3800 Nursing Practice – Adult Health II clinical group earned recognition recently as well. Jasmine Aguillard and Breanne Folkman were doing a clinical rotation in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit, and helped one of the professional nurses care for a patient.

“(Jasmine and Breanne) stepped in with remarkable professionalism, calmness, and initiative,” Jungja Bae, RN said. “They helped me to provide safe, effective and timely care for the patient. Their teamwork and clinical judgement truly stood out and I was genuinely impressed.”

Lastly, student Eleanor Babb was recognized by a patient from Bailey Square Surgery Center for an “excellent job she did assisting a patient preparing for surgery,” according to Galen Austin Dean Dr. Delos Jones, DNP, RN.

These stories remind us why we are so proud of our Galen College of Nursing students. Every recognition—from a Flower Bud Award to a heartfelt patient commendation—shows that our students don’t just meet expectations; they go the extra inch to provide care that is compassionate, professional, and deeply human. Their commitment to learning and serving others reflects the very heart of nursing and the values we stand for at Galen.

As these students continue to make an impact in clinical settings, we celebrate their achievements and look forward to the difference they will make in the lives of countless patients.