Jessie Radonich-Scanlan, 1990-2013

Jessie Radonich-ScanlonA dedicated nursing student at Langara College, Jessie Radonich-Scanlan demonstrated a contagious enthusiasm for nursing. She was passionate about caring for others, and strived to do her best academically. Her passion and pride in nursing were evidenced in maintaining one of the highest GPAs in her class, but one would never know it, for she was so modest and fun-loving.

Jessie’s desire for knowledge went beyond what her nursing program required. She regularly attended conferences and education sessions to advance her nursing practice. She had been planning to present her project work with a peer at a nursing conference. These qualities contributed to her passion for nursing.

Jessie grew up in Nelson, BC. She enjoyed spending time outdoors; snowboarding, hiking, and floating down the river. She loved spending time with her family and always spoke of them with high regard to her classmates and friends. Jessie was known for her constant smile, her infectious laugh, and her willingness to help others, whether in class, at the hospital, or in her personal life. She was a truly genuine and sincere young woman, and kind to everyone she encountered.

It was mid-term of Term 9 in October, 2013 when Jessie suddenly experienced a brain aneurysm and was rushed to Vancouver General Hospital. She was in a coma, and physicians performed two surgeries over two days. However, the damage to her brain was catastrophic, and her family made the decision to take her off life support on October 15. She was 23 years old. Jessie was awarded her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree posthumously in June, 2014.

The Jessie Radonich-Scanlan Memorial Award

Jessie’s family, friends, her classmates, and the School of Nursing faculty came together to create this award to honor Jessie, and to create opportunities for future nursing students to participate in professional health conferences. The award is open to all students at the Langara School of Nursing. Please visit the all nursing student web board for application information. 

If you wish to contribute to this award, please contact the Langara College Foundation: www.langara.bc.ca/foundation, call 604-323-5948, or drop by their office, A171.