Kayli Hirsty

Kayli Hirsty is the recipient of the NEF Liesel M. Hiemenz Scholarship and a healthcare professional whose journey embodies a commitment to excellence, compassion, and leadership. Her trajectory began with a foundation in human biology from Michigan State University, followed by an accelerated nursing program at Valparaiso University, where she honed her skills and passion for patient care.

Driven by a profound desire to make a difference in people's lives, Kayli pursued advanced education at Johns Hopkins University. Currently enrolled in the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program with a dual focus on pediatric primary and acute care, coupled with a Nursing Education Post-Master's Certification (NECO), Kayli exemplifies dedication to holistic healthcare delivery and advocacy for equitable access to medical services.

Her decision to pursue nursing stemmed from a deep-rooted belief in community service and the transformative power of healthcare. Through various volunteer projects globally, Kayli gained invaluable insights into the diverse healthcare needs of different populations, reinforcing her commitment to foster inclusivity and cultural competence in her practice.

At Stanford Children's Hospital in California, Kayli serves as a beacon of leadership and expertise in the pediatric cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU). In addition to her clinical responsibilities, she has assumed various leadership roles, including preceptorship, mentoring, and spearheading initiatives such as the CVICU nursing support squad. Her proactive approach to addressing clinical challenges underscores her dedication to enhancing patient care and staff development.

Kayli's vision extends beyond the confines of hospital walls. Upon graduation, she aspires to leverage her expertise to effect systemic change within healthcare systems, with a focus on public and community health. She envisions a future where healthcare delivery is transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the diverse needs of patients.

In her pursuit of knowledge and innovation, Kayli remains steadfast in her commitment to advancing healthcare quality locally and globally. Through her dual specialization in primary and acute care, she seeks to bridge gaps in care delivery and contribute to a more resilient and adaptable healthcare ecosystem.

Upon completing her studies, Kayli will remain steadfast in her dedication to public and community health. She is eager to explore new leadership avenues, refine her clinical acumen across diverse healthcare settings, and champion systemic improvements within healthcare systems. Her goal is to cultivate strong healthcare teams, foster transparency in healthcare delivery, and deepen her understanding of available care options to better address patient needs. In light of ongoing industry evolution, especially amid global challenges like the pandemic, Kayli is committed to driving positive change and enhancing healthcare quality both locally and globally, transcending limitations of specialty to provide comprehensive care solutions.

Receiving this scholarship from the Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. is not only a recognition of Kayli's academic achievements but also a validation of her dedication and hard work. To have Kali's efforts acknowledged in such a meaningful way is immensely encouraging. Nurses Educational Funds support provides the financial means to allow Kayli to pursue her educational aspirations and alleviates some of the financial burden associated with graduate nursing studies.