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Providing guidance to the next generation of nurses is a task that Nancy Hooper of North Simcoe Muskoka Specialized Geriatric Services (NSM SGS) takes seriously.
Proof of that can be found in the Preceptor Award she recently received from Georgian College. The student-nominated recognition in the Honours Bachelor of Science – Nursing program is for "invaluable guidance and support in helping students embark on their professional journeys".
“Nancy has a passion for student learning and development,” said student Irene Ikundi. “She made the environment engaging and supportive. During my placement, she made sure I understood the principles of comprehensive geriatric assessment and offered insights into what NSM SGS does.”
A preceptor is an experienced clinician who coaches and supervises during student placements, helping future health care professionals translate theoretical learning into real-world practice.
Now NSM SGS' Manager of Geriatric Mental Health, Hooper got her start as a student at Waypoint more than 20 years ago. She said some of her best and most memorable learning experiences sprang from the diverse opportunities that were offered by various staff members and teams.
“Now, as a preceptor with SGS and with the support of our full SGS interdisciplinary team, we aim to leave a lasting impression with students of what specialized geriatric services are across the continuum of care, and enhance students’ care of older adults as they continue their training and beyond,” she said.
Corrine Lalonde, Program Coordinator at Georgian, described Hooper as a dedicated and committed mentor for students.
“Your guidance has been instrumental in helping them gain invaluable knowledge and experience in the clinical setting,” she said in an email informing Hooper of the award. “Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our students and for inspiring excellence in nursing practice. Your contributions have a lasting impact on the future of nursing.”
Ikundi is grateful Hooper served as her preceptor, noting she went above and beyond to help her meet her objectives: “When I mentioned I was interested in falls prevention, Nancy made arrangements for me to go in the field to be a part of an exercise program. She’s exceptional.”
Hooper was presented with a certificate and a Georgian College Nursing Preceptor Pin in acknowledgment of her exemplary contributions.
