A Giving Force: The Viterbo Student Nurses Association

Few groups compare to the incredible generosity, inspiration, and overall spirit of the Viterbo Student Nurses Association (VSNA). Comprised of 215 active members, the group aims to enlighten its members by bringing in well-educated speakers, as well as ensures its members get involved around the community in many service projects.

The VSNA dates back to the years before Viterbo earned itself the title “university.” Once every month, the team comes together for a large meeting where an experienced worker in the medical field will come to share their stories, work experience, and advice on the career path.

Following the speech, the group will discuss upcoming community service in which members can participate. The events include serving meals at the Salvation Army, health clinics for screenings, flu shot clinics, volunteering at the Children’s Museum, and hosting BINGO at nursing homes. As the Christmas season draws closer, the group begins taking part in many more activities to spread Christmas cheer and positivity during the holiday season, such as ringing bells for the Salvation Army.

The massive group is led by their president Ashley Kurash, who takes responsibility in running meetings, keeping her office informed, and keeping communication with Student Nurses Associations around the state. With so much on her plate, Kurash says she is “very lucky to have a good office team.” She and her team meet weekly to ensure things continue running smoothly at the monthly meetings and service events.

Kurash described that, on top of the speakers and service events, the group has a helpful program that pairs groups of senior nursing majors with students brand new to the program. “It’s pretty cool to see the different ages interact in the club,” Kurash said, “It’s nice for freshman to have a little bit of that nursing experience.” Kurash also spoke about how important collaboration is for the group. In regards to other organizations on campus, Kurash said, “we are interested in joining up with them to kinda see how nursing plays a role, and to really see how different groups can benefit from what we’re doing.”

In many aspects, the VSNA strives to educate, collaborate, and serve, all for their mission of making the world a happier, healthier place