We’re proud of the ambitions and accomplishments of our students and alumni – learn some of their stories in our monthly feature:

Alumni Spotlight

Madeline Feliciano-Weiser ’14, MSN, RN

Nurse Manager, Medical Surgical Unit, Penn State Health-Lancaster Medical Center

Madeline Feliciano-Weiser’s nursing education began at a community college, where she earned her Associate of Science in Nursing degree. She was proud to be the first in her family to go to college and adds: “To me, being a first-generation college student means my parents were successful in their quest for our family have opportunities not available to them due to societal limitations early in their adulthood. Everything I do is in honor of their sacrifices to provide a safe and secure home where my siblings and I could be successful.”

In 2014, Madeline earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from PA College. Today, she is a nurse manager for a medical-surgical unit at Penn State Health-Lancaster Medical Center. She is also a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidate at Penn State University. Madeline recently submitted her first abstract to a national conference – the National Association of Hispanic Nurses (NAHN) – and her topic, “Aliados a Cómplices (From Allies to Accomplices). What is the difference and how does it affect efforts to address and dismantle racism in nursing?” was selected for presentation as a plenary session.

“Contributing to the diversification of nursing has become a focal point of my career, as well as my doctoral degree,” Madeline shares. She is a member of the National Association of Hispanic Nurses Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee which aims to support and educate Hispanic nurses on DEI issues affecting the Hispanic community and nurses in the profession.  Last month, Madeline was guest presenter for Campus Life’s Leadership Live series, connecting PA College students with leaders in their chosen health science professions.

Reflecting on how she strives to make the world a better place through the vital work of nursing, Madeline says: “I work to keep the patient and their families of my community the focus of everything I do. Communities of color are still experiencing healthcare disparities, despite the abundance of available knowledge. Ensuring I am a consistent advocate for these communities is my commitment to making the world a better place. Being a nurse today provide limitless opportunities, not just in career pathways, but in influence as well. Nurses are now found in the U.S. Congress, courtrooms, classrooms, research, public health and publications. Being a nurse is powerful as the profession strives to make an exponential impact on the communities we serve.”

 

Seeking People of PA College

Do you know an exceptional current student or alumnus whose experiences and accomplishments would help tell the PA College story? Or someone who has overcome an obstacle or reached a challenging milestone during their PA College experience? Please email your suggested names (and identify them in one of these categories) to Karen Jenkins. Self-nominations are also welcome!