Shawnna Jackson ’98, Tina Ross and Becky Captain of Graceland University were recently honored at the 2015 Nurse of the Year Awards by the Greater Kansas Chapter of March of Dimes. Nurses who demonstrate excellence and leadership in the field of nursing were recognized at a gala event on Friday, Nov. 13, at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel in Overland Park, Kansas, where patients, families and colleagues gather to honor the selflessness, dedication and passion of area nurses.
Jackson, who is the Public Health Manager with the City of Independence Health Department, received the award in Public Health/Ambulatory Care. Jackson is on the Graceland School of Nursing’s (SON) Community Advisory Board and teaches in the online RN-BSN (registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in Nursing) program.
Ross was a finalist in the Long-Term Care/Rehabilitation/Geriatrics category. Ross is a wound care specialist at The Groves Retirement Center in Independence and is currently a student on the Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) track in the Graceland University Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program.
Captain was a finalist in the Advanced Practice category. She is a new member on the SON’s Community Advisory Board and practices in the Cardio Health and Wellness Center in the St. Luke’s Healthcare system.
From neonatal and pediatric care to mental health and advanced practice, these awards recognize the contribution that nurses are making in their communities. Nurses are honored from across the Greater Kansas City area, whose strength, courage and perseverance advance their profession
The March of Dimes received 664 nominations and 471 applications across 21 diverse categories. A distinguished selection committee comprised of health care professionals selected finalists and Nurse of the Year Award recipients in each category.
Graceland is proud of these excellent nurses for the exceptional care they provide for their patients and community and for the recognition they bring to the Graceland School of Nursing.
Administration and Staff, Athletics, Press Release
April 14, 2026
A transformative era for Graceland University men’s basketball has reached its natural turning point. After engineering one of the most impactful rebuilds in program history, head coach Todd Lorensen has accepted the head coaching position at Rockhurst University. In response, Athletic Director Brady McKillip has elevated Associate Head Coach Matt Dickman to lead the Yellowjackets forward.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
April 10, 2026
Graceland University and the Community of Christ announce the retirement of Campus Minister Mike Hoffman, and the appointment of Doug Roberts as the university’s next Campus Minister, effective June 2026.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 13, 2026
Graceland University is saddened to share the passing of Trustee Dr. Julia “Julie” Snethen, a respected nurse scientist, educator, and member of the university’s Board of Trustees whose life and career were dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
March 11, 2026
Graceland University has announced the promotion of longtime team member Steve Edwards to Executive Director of Marketing, recognizing more than three decades of service and leadership that have helped shape the university’s communications and brand.
Administration and Staff, Press Release
September 23, 2025
Graceland University proudly welcomes Tom Hiles and Noel E....
Administration and Staff, Faculty, Students
August 25, 2025
Setting out on their very own Graceland journey of...
