On Monday, 4 November 2024, Assistant Professor Dr. Suparat Wangsrikuon, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, received a scholarship fund of 114,000 baht from Mr. David A. Lucero, Chairman of the Scholarship Committee of the Chiang Mai International Rotary Club. This generous contribution will support the education of three nursing students in the Practical Nursing Program, covering their second-semester registration fees and end-of-year practicum costs.
The scholarship signing ceremony was attended by faculty executives, staff, and representatives from both organisations. It also included discussions on further academic cooperation between Chiang Mai University and the Chiang Mai International Rotary Club, aiming to expand educational opportunities and advance the nursing profession. The event took place in the Wilawan Senarat Meeting Room at the Faculty of Nursing.
Stories of Resilience and Hope
The scholarship recipients, Pen, Nong, and Donut, embody resilience and determination. Their remarkable journeys, marked by hardship and perseverance, serve as a powerful reminder of the impact of generosity.
Pen's Journey: Raised by her grandmother in a remote Karen village, Pen worked tirelessly for six years as a nursing aide, saving every baht to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. Her unwavering love for her grandmother and her commitment to improving their lives kept her going.
Nong's Fight: Growing up in Mae Hong Son, Nong turned to boxing to fund her education while working at a hospital. Her dedication to learning, including taking English classes, reflects her determination to overcome financial and cultural barriers.
Donut's Aspiration: Coming from a farming family affected by climate change, Donut sought stability through nursing. Despite financial struggles and emotional challenges, she persevered, inspired by the hope of supporting her family and community.
A Bittersweet Moment
Initially, only one scholarship was to be awarded based on academic performance and financial need. However, after hearing the students’ heartfelt stories, the committee chose to support all three, recognizing their equal merit.
The surprise announcement moved everyone to tears. Pen, Nong, and Donut expressed profound gratitude, promising to become compassionate nurses and give back to their communities. Their commitment to "paying it forward" underscores the transformative power of kindness and the enduring impact of education.
These scholarships do more than fund education—they inspire hope, create opportunities, and nurture the next generation of compassionate leaders. The ripple effect of this generosity will extend far beyond these three young women, uplifting countless others in the years to come.
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