Practical Nursing students at STC were provided a generous donation from HCA Florida Healthcare Sarasota Doctors Hospital on Thursday, August 10, 2023. Todd Cruz, RN and Chief Nursing Officer along with his staff surprised students on Thursday morning with Goodie Bags filled with medical supplies. "We want to set you guys up for success on DAY ONE." Recipients of the donation were brand new, incoming nursing students.
In total, 110 students between the STC Sarasota Campus and North Port Branch received a Goodie Bag including a Stethoscope, Medical Shears, Pen Lights, Gate Belts, Notepads, Pens, Highlighters and more. "What an amazing way for our new PN students to start their year!", said Julie Schreiber, Program Manager of Health & Public Services. In total, over $8,000.00 in medical equipment was donated to the Suncoast Technical College PN students. HCA Florida Healthcare reached out to STC in advance to determine what students needed in terms of supplies. Their generous donation touched the hearts of students, one stating, "I don't know if they realize just how much they are truly helping people. Some students struggle financially and this equipment is expensive. I'm so grateful to them for helping all of us."
Practical Nursing students on the STC Sarasota campus were able to attend a donation ceremony before receiving their new supplies. In addition to learning more about HCA Florida Healthcare Sarasota Doctors Hospital, they participated in a Q&A with the staff of the hospital. When asked by a student, "What do you like best about being a nurse?" Harry Walk, RN and Assistant Chief Nursing Officer replied, "Nursing is not glitz and glam... But I love to take care of people. I love what I do and that's what makes my job worth going to each and every day."