We congratulate nursing student Katie LaBerge, the second recipient of the Kim Kotelo Memorial Award!
LaBerge was nominated by Julia Whitehead, a registered nurse on the orthopedic trauma unit at the Grace Hospital and LaBerge’s preceptor.
In her nomination, Whitehead stated the following: “From the very beginning of Katie's senior practicum, her compassion, empathy and advocacy for patients was evident. Katie always entered a patient's room with a smile on her face. Oftentimes I could find Katie taking extra time to listen to patients and their family members during some of the most challenging times of their lives.”
Whitehead also complimented LeBerge’s “constant smile and positive attitude on the unit,” adding that during times of constructive feedback, LaBerge continued “to have a positive attitude and would apply the feedback immediately moving forward to better her practice. Katie was always looking for ways to improve her practice, even if she was successful she would seek advice on how she could do even better next time.”
The Kim Kotelo Memorial Award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a student completing their third year of the Bachelor of Nursing program.
A graduate of the RRC Polytech’s nursing program, Kim worked as an acute care nurse at the Health Sciences Centre through the COVID-19 pandemic and passed away in April of 2021.
For those who would like to support Kim Kotelo’s legacy, there is a green ‘donate now’ button on the award’s information page. Please remember to designate your gift in memory of Kim Kotelo.
You can also donate over the phone by calling 204-619-0139, or by mail at the following address:
Red River College Polytechnic Development Office
C306-2055 Notre Dame Ave.
Winnipeg, MB R3H 0J9