FENNIMORE, Wis – Lindsey Lund, a recent nursing graduate of Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, was honored with the prestigious DAISY Award during the college’s nursing pinning ceremony. The award recognizes her compassion, professionalism and commitment to patient care. Lund graduated Dec. 12 with an Associate Degree in Nursing. The DAISY Award is an international recognition program that honors nurses who demonstrate extraordinary care and make a lasting impact on patients, families and colleagues. A 2019 graduate of Wauzeka-Steuben High School, Lund began her college journey at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire before returning closer to home in 2020. She said proximity and the supportive learning environment at Southwest Tech ultimately led her to the nursing program. “I’ve always been drawn to nursing,” said Lund. “My grandma was a nurse most of her life, and I grew up helping care for my grandpa, who was diabetic.
It’s something that was always part of my life, but it really became clear once I got into the nursing program at Southwest Tech.” Lund said small class sizes and strong communication with instructors were key to her success. She completed her certified nursing assistant coursework prior to entering the nursing program, which she said provided a solid foundation for her studies. “That CNA experience helps put you in the right mindset,” she said. “It teaches you the basics and gives you confidence going into the program.”
While in the program, Lund balanced coursework with raising a young family. She has a 3.5- year-old child and welcomed her second child during the middle of the semester last spring while enrolled full time. She credited instructors and campus support services for helping her stay on track. “My instructors and the disability services staff were incredibly helpful,” she said. “They worked with me to create a plan so I could finish the semester and return successfully. That support made all the difference.”
“Despite the personal sacrifices, Lindsey never compromised the quality of her work or her care for others,” said one of Lund’s nominators. “She challenges others in a way that helps them achieve greater success and demonstrates critical thinking, rather than blurting out an answer because she almost always knows it. Her ability to lead with empathy, manage her time, and selflessly care for her family while pursuing a nursing education is nothing short of extraordinary.”
Lund said she was surprised when her name was announced as the DAISY Award recipient during the pinning ceremony. “It wasn’t something I expected at all,” she said. “So much of what nurses do is behind the scenes. You’re just doing what’s asked of you, so to be recognized for that was really meaningful.”
Looking ahead, Lund is exploring several career paths within nursing, with an interest in labor and delivery. She said the flexibility of the profession and the strong preparation she received at Southwest Tech have given her confidence as she begins her career. “The nursing program — and really all the programs at Southwest Tech — are just wonderful,” she said. “The people here genuinely want to help you succeed.”