Every year from May 6–12, the nation pauses to honor the extraordinary work and unwavering commitment of nurses during National Nurses Week.
This week not only commemorates the birthday of Florence Nightingale—the founder of modern nursing—but also shines a well-deserved spotlight on nurses’ integral role in the healthcare system. At Concordia University Wisconsin (CUW), Nurses Week is a time to celebrate our current students, esteemed alumni, and dedicated faculty who exemplify Christ-centered service through compassionate care and academic excellence.
A Calling, Not Just a Career
At CUW’s School of Nursing, nursing is more than a profession—it’s a calling. Rooted in Christian values, the School of Nursing educates and equips students to serve with excellence, integrity, and heart. Whether pursuing an undergraduate or graduate nursing degree, students receive a comprehensive education integrating cutting-edge science with faith-based compassion.
From traditional Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) programs to advanced practice degrees like the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), Concordia fosters a nurturing, Christ-centered learning environment. Students are guided by experienced nurse educators who are deeply committed to student success and holistic development—mind, body, and spirit.
Stories of Strength and Service
CUW’s nursing students are often balancing demanding lives while chasing their dreams of becoming healthcare leaders. Two remarkable students, Destini and Taylor, exemplify the resilience and commitment that define Concordia nurses.
Meet Taylor: Leading with Compassion and Faith
“My name is Taylor Schaub, and I’m in my final semester of the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner program at CUW. I currently work as a nurse in the electrophysiology specialty clinic at Advocate Aurora Health and will be starting as an NP in this same specialty after graduation,” shares Taylor.
Like many CUW students, Taylor is managing multiple roles—healthcare professional, student, and twin mom. What made the difference in her journey? The support and flexibility built into Concordia’s nursing programs.
“One of the things I’ve loved most about the graduate nursing program at Concordia is the kindness and support of the faculty,” she says. “Professors, clinical adjuncts, and academic advisors are approachable, encouraging, and truly invested in your success.”
Taylor also highlights how Concordia’s Christian values have impacted her as a nurse: “I am proud to leave Concordia not only with the education needed to be an NP, but also with a deeper understanding of what it means to lead with faith, compassion, and purpose.”
Her story is a testament to Concordia’s commitment to nurturing nurses who care deeply for their patients, communities, and spiritual growth.
Meet Destini: Pursuing Purpose in Practice
Destini Kruswick is a current student in CUW’s RN to BSN program and has already dedicated nine years to nursing, primarily in Labor and Delivery at Door County Medical Center in Sturgeon Bay.
“My favorite aspect of the RN to BSN program here at CUW is its flexibility in pursuing further education while working full-time and raising a family,” she shares. With a stellar 3.94 GPA, Destini is thriving academically while juggling the responsibilities of both work and home.
She also emphasizes how Concordia supports her spiritual journey: “CUW stands out to me because it provides an avenue to strengthen my faith and a path aligning this faith with my nursing practice.”
Destini’s experience reflects the heart of CUW’s mission—to prepare nurses not only as skilled clinicians but also as compassionate servants who see their work as a ministry.
Why Concordia?
CUW’s School of Nursing is a nationally respected institution recognized for its strong academic standards, high NCLEX pass rates, and meaningful faith integration. The school offers:
- Innovative Programs: From traditional BSN tracks to online RN to BSN and MSN programs, CUW offers flexibility that meets students where they are.
- Outstanding Outcomes: 100% first time pass rates for the Family Nurse Practitioner students and the Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner students on both certification boards (ANCC and AANPBC).
- Faith-Based Curriculum: A Christian worldview is interwoven throughout the curriculum, cultivating purpose-driven leaders who see nursing as a service to others.
- Exceptional Faculty: Experienced nurse educators offer one-on-one mentoring and support, nurturing students academically and spiritually.
- Clinical Excellence: Partnerships with regional healthcare providers give students hands-on experience in a variety of clinical settings, ensuring real-world readiness.
- Community Impact: CUW nurses are known for going beyond the bedside—engaging in global missions, public health advocacy, and leadership roles across diverse healthcare settings.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate Nurses Week, we are reminded that the profession is ever-evolving, but the heart of nursing remains constant: compassionate care, courage under pressure, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others. CUW continues to graduate nurses who embody these traits and rise to the challenges of modern healthcare with resilience and grace.
Whether you’re an aspiring nurse, a current student, or a proud alumnus, Nurses’ Week is a time to reflect on the lives touched and the impact made through this sacred calling. At Concordia, we honor and uplift every individual in our nursing community who lives out the mission to serve, lead, and inspire through Christ-centered care.
A Final Word of Thanks
To all our CUW nursing students, faculty, alumni, and healthcare partners—thank you. Your commitment to excellence, your compassion in care, and your strength in the face of challenges are deeply appreciated.
And to every nurse, near and far—Happy Nurses’ Week. May you continue to lead with knowledge, serve with faith, and care with your whole heart.
Ready to Make a Difference Through Nursing?
Whether you’re just beginning your journey or looking to advance your nursing career, Concordia University Wisconsin is here to support you every step of the way. With flexible programs, faith-integrated learning, and a community that truly cares, you can become the kind of nurse the world needs. Explore our nursing programs today and discover how CUW can help you lead with compassion and purpose.