AORN Foundation Newsletter

Scholar Spotlight

Valery Mejia, 2025–2026 Academic Scholarship Recipient “Thank you for investing in my educational journey.

I am currently enrolled in the Direct Entry Master’s in Nursing program at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. My long-term goal is to become a registered nurse and advance into specialized clinical practice. My background in nutrition sciences and my service as a U.S. Army Sergeant have strengthened my commitment to improving patient outcomes, promoting health education, and providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

This scholarship eases the financial burden of tuition and textbooks, allowing me to focus fully on my studies and clinical training. Your generosity not only supports my education but also motivates me to give back to the nursing profession and the communities I serve.

Once again, thank you for your meaningful contribution to my future. I will carry this encouragement with me as I strive to become a skilled and compassionate nurse."

— Valery Mejia, 2025–2026 Academic Scholarship Recipient

Celebrating Our Scholarship Committee

Reviewing applications for our grants and scholarships program takes tremendous time and care. Our volunteer Scholarship Committee anonymously reviews and scores every application to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all who apply. Their dedication directly supports the next generation of perioperative nurses.

With heartfelt gratitude, we recognize:

Chair

Ashley Bartholomew, BSN, RN, CNOR, ONC

Chair Elect

Wendy Paszek, CNOR, RN

Members

Mary-Kate Derby, BSN, RN, CNOR
Kharen Lantin, RN, CNOR
Oluponle Olubajo, MSN, RN, CNOR, CNML
Evangela Rice, MSN Ed, RN, CNOR, CST
Leanne Ruffner, BSN, RN, CNOR
Latisha Washington, MSN, RN, BS, NE BC, CNOR

It’s people like them, and like you, who drive our mission forward.

Elevate Your Education

The AORN Foundation’s academic scholarship application for the 2026 -2027 school year is now open. Apply now if you are pursuing nursing education through Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree programs.

Apply by June 15.

Join Us in New Orleans

Celebrate with us at the AORN Foundation Party, “Bayou & Beyond” during AORN’s Global Surgical Conference & Expo.

📅 April 13, 2025 – Republic NOLA, New Orleans
🎉 An evening of fun, dancing, and celebration
🎟️ $40 admission (includes two drink tickets)
👕 Pre-order your commemorative T-shirt and Periop Proud baseball cap

Secure your spot today >>

Join the Sustaining Donor Circle

Make your giving easier by becoming a sustaining donor. Spread your support across affordable monthly gifts. Your contribution is automatically charged to your credit card, making it the simplest way to support the nurses who make surgery safe.

Set up your monthly gift with a click.

Prefer a one-time gift? Donate now.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we’re not just changing lives, we’re shaping the future of healthcare.

Warm regards,

The AORN Foundation

Give Today

AORN Global Surgical Conference & Expo: New Orleans, LA - April 11-14, 2026. Early Bird pricing ends March 11. Register Today

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