May 2026 Honoree
April Pellmann-Span, MSN, RN
Professor Pellmann has been an exceptional mentor and an unwavering source of support throughout my final semester of nursing school. Her weekly check-ins were something I genuinely looked forward to. Even during one of the most demanding semesters of the program, she consistently created a space where I felt heard, encouraged, and valued.
We were warned that this final semester would be heavy, but even with those warnings, many of us underestimated how challenging it would truly be. Despite this, Professor Pellmann remained patient, compassionate, and incredibly supportive. She served as my advisor for my preceptorship, and during a particularly difficult situation, she stood by me. When things didn’t go as planned, it was easy for me to start doubting myself and placing blame on my own abilities. But she saw me, believed in me, and reminded me of my strengths. The time and effort she put into encouraging me and helping me see my own worth allowed me to rebuild my confidence when I had started to lose it.
When things became overwhelming, she always made herself available and reminded me that I didn’t need to struggle alone. Her empathy, encouragement, and willingness to support me made a tremendous difference. She was the light at the end of the tunnel in my final semester of nursing school. She lit the path for me and helped me get back up when I was struggling to keep going.
Professor Pellmann embodies what it means to lead with compassion, integrity, and heart. She made my final semester not only manageable but truly meaningful.
We were warned that this final semester would be heavy, but even with those warnings, many of us underestimated how challenging it would truly be. Despite this, Professor Pellmann remained patient, compassionate, and incredibly supportive. She served as my advisor for my preceptorship, and during a particularly difficult situation, she stood by me. When things didn’t go as planned, it was easy for me to start doubting myself and placing blame on my own abilities. But she saw me, believed in me, and reminded me of my strengths. The time and effort she put into encouraging me and helping me see my own worth allowed me to rebuild my confidence when I had started to lose it.
When things became overwhelming, she always made herself available and reminded me that I didn’t need to struggle alone. Her empathy, encouragement, and willingness to support me made a tremendous difference. She was the light at the end of the tunnel in my final semester of nursing school. She lit the path for me and helped me get back up when I was struggling to keep going.
Professor Pellmann embodies what it means to lead with compassion, integrity, and heart. She made my final semester not only manageable but truly meaningful.
Thank you, April, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
View More Honorees