The School of Nursing and Dental Hygiene’s Student Nurses’ Association (SNA) at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa received the Stellar School Award from the National Student Nurses’ Association (NSNA) in April. After much hard work and collaboration, the SNA board documented five years of effort to build a strong student-led nursing organization. SNA was one of three school chapters recognized nationally this year and is now one of only 39 nursing schools with the national recognition.
The NSNA Stellar School Chapter Recognition Program recognizes school chapters that demonstrate ongoing involvement in NSNA, including a strong commitment to shared governance and professional development of their students and faculty. The UH Mānoa chapter was praised for their strong collaborative relationship with the school and the many significant ways that members contribute. Additionally, UH Mānoa SNA members have provided meaningful service to the community by supporting community health promotion and cultural events, as well as coordinating blood and bone marrow drives on campus.
“Receiving the Stellar School award really is a highlight of the legacy this executive board will leave behind,” said Miki Matsuoka, SNA president, who will earn her BS in nursing this spring. “This award is a testament to the hard work and the dedication we have all invested into SNA. Our board members know SNA is a solid organization and we look forward to seeing where the organization grows in the future.”
SNA’s goal is to provide students with opportunities to develop leadership skills and enhance their professional nursing identity. Members of this student-led organization participate on school committees and plan various community service social and scholarly activities for students.
“The Stellar School award recognizes the high-caliber of our Student Nurses’ Association and student leadership,” said Gary Glauberman, SNA faculty advisor. “The process of preparing the application took more than a year and a remarkable level of commitment. Student leaders of the SNA have really cultivated a spirit of compassion and excellence within their organization. It’s so exciting that the students’ efforts have now been recognized nationally, and the award is something that all UH Mānoa Nursing students can be proud of.”
Learn more about the Student Nurses’ Association.
