May 2026 Honoree
Kayla Kardokus
Excellence in nursing is not only demonstrated at the bedside—it is also reflected in how a student elevates those around her. Kayla has distinguished herself through a unique combination of academic leadership, clinical curiosity, and a deep commitment to collective success within the learning environment.
Kayla consistently created opportunities for shared learning by helping to organize and lead peer study groups throughout the program. These sessions were intentionally structured and clinically focused, designed to strengthen understanding across the cohort.
Beyond academics, Kayla’s presence in the clinical setting is marked by attentiveness, respect, and steady professionalism. She approaches patient care with compassion and intentionality, ensuring that individuals feel acknowledged, supported, and treated with dignity. Her communication promotes clarity and trust, contributing to a therapeutic and patient-centered care environment.
She also demonstrates a strong commitment to equity and advocacy. Each patient interaction is approached without bias, with careful attention to individual needs, rights, and circumstances. She consistently reinforces the importance of fairness and patient empowerment, whether at the bedside or in collaboration with peers and clinical staff.
What sets Kayla apart is her willingness to step into a teaching and leadership role without hesitation. Her initiative in supporting peers reflects both confidence and a genuine investment in the success of others. She not only strengthens her own knowledge base but actively contributes to the growth and development of those around her.
Kayla embodies the spirit of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and compassionate care that defines exceptional nursing practice.
It is with great pride that we recognize Kayla Kardokus as the recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students.
Kayla consistently created opportunities for shared learning by helping to organize and lead peer study groups throughout the program. These sessions were intentionally structured and clinically focused, designed to strengthen understanding across the cohort.
Beyond academics, Kayla’s presence in the clinical setting is marked by attentiveness, respect, and steady professionalism. She approaches patient care with compassion and intentionality, ensuring that individuals feel acknowledged, supported, and treated with dignity. Her communication promotes clarity and trust, contributing to a therapeutic and patient-centered care environment.
She also demonstrates a strong commitment to equity and advocacy. Each patient interaction is approached without bias, with careful attention to individual needs, rights, and circumstances. She consistently reinforces the importance of fairness and patient empowerment, whether at the bedside or in collaboration with peers and clinical staff.
What sets Kayla apart is her willingness to step into a teaching and leadership role without hesitation. Her initiative in supporting peers reflects both confidence and a genuine investment in the success of others. She not only strengthens her own knowledge base but actively contributes to the growth and development of those around her.
Kayla embodies the spirit of collaboration, intellectual curiosity, and compassionate care that defines exceptional nursing practice.
It is with great pride that we recognize Kayla Kardokus as the recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students.
Thank you, Kayla, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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