Now serving as an emergency room nurse on the front lines of the COVID19 pandemic, Keiser University alumnus Troy White has been recognized by patients at Raulerson Hospital in Okeechobee, Florida as both a ‘super-hero’ and an ‘angel.’

White graduated from Keiser University in May 2020 with his B.S. in Nursing at a ceremony presided over by Dr. Arthur Keiser, Ph.D. He previously earned his Associate of Science in nursing from Keiser University in 2019.

The Keiser University Port St. Lucie Campus Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) graduate recently shared that the support and solid educational foundation he’d gained at Keiser continues to support him as he serves on the front lines of the pandemic. “The crucial knowledge and improved critical care thinking skills have allowed me to use the evidence-based practices we learned to provide exceptional care to my patients which leads to improved outcomes and shorter hospital stays, ultimately decreasing the risk of hospital readmission,” said White who is a father of two and the first in his family to graduate college.

In addition to the courses and externship requirements, instructors including Nursing Program Director Noreen Cox have left a lasting impact.

“I refer to Professor Cox as ‘Momma Cox,’” smiled White who described her as ‘nurturing, caring, firm, and protective’ while recalling a day when an exam didn’t go as he had hoped. “I was ready to give up. When I informed her that I was quitting and this was not the right time for nursing school, she reminded me not to let one bad exam and the stress of life hold me back from my dreams. This was just like the advice of a mother, and if it weren’t for the care and support of her and others, I would not have completed my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse,” he reflected.

When asked what he’d recommend to others who are considering a career in the field, White said, “Healthcare is very fulfilling work, as it provides the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others during their deepest times of need and on the most fundamental levels. With this privilege comes a responsibility to seek the highest level of education that is available, so the most important thing to do is to first evaluate the overall professional standards and educational requirements and then decide if it’s right for you. If so, the time is now to make a rewarding choice for your future.”

Keiser University is a private, not-for-profit university, serving nearly 20,000 students and employing 2,900 faculty and staff members. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, the university currently offers more than 100 degrees at 21 Florida campuses, as well as online and at two international sites. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as a level VI institution to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. For additional information regarding Keiser University, visit http://www.keiseruniversity.edu.