As an Officer in the Army, Major Ersan "Jon" Capan was selected by the Army through a highly competitive process to attend the BSN-DNP FNP/ENP program because of his excellence in providing emergency care in austere and stressful military conditions, history of appropriate resource utilization, and superior skills in communication and conflict resolution. These characteristics were not isolated to military environments but have been repeatedly demonstrated during his role as a DNP student.

Jon excels academically, maintaining a 4.0 GPA in a rigorous, full-time academic program. Preceptors consistently praise his intellect and clinical acumen as well as his respect and compassion for patients in his care, using words such as “humble, kind, friendly, conscientious, enthusiastic, gracious, and funny” to describe him. He seeks information in appropriately inquisitive ways so that he may respond to any question or situation with the best and most accurate information. Jon demonstrates exemplary interpersonal skills in interactions with faculty, peers and patients, and clinical staff.

In all situations, Jon’s calm and assured demeanor exemplifies respect for differences among those with whom he interacts. He is a role model for others in how he conducts himself as a doctoral student and nurse while serving as a leader among his peers and is most deserving of this award.