Penny Nelk Nursing Scholarship

The Penny Nelk Memorial Nursing Scholarship Honoring a Legacy of Compassion, Perseverance, and Purpose The Penny Nelk Memorial Nursing Scholarship was created to honor the life and legacy of Penny Nelk, a devoted nurse, mother, wife and friend—who passed away on July 4, 2025. Penny served in the nursing field for over 30 years, dedicating her life to the care of others with unwavering compassion, humility, and strength. Penny’s journey in nursing was more than a career; it was her purpose. Whether she was comforting a patient in their most vulnerable moment or mentoring a new nurse on their first day, she gave fully of herself. Her colleagues remember her as a steady, nurturing presence. Her patients remember her as someone who listened and genuinely cared. And her family remembers her as their rock, someone who never stopped giving. One of Penny’s proudest achievements came shortly before her passing: after years of balancing work, family, and life’s many challenges, she completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Earning her degree was not only a personal milestone, but a symbol of her perseverance and lifelong commitment to growth, education, and excellence in care. This scholarship was established to support aspiring nurses who share Penny’s dedication and heart. It is intended for those who, like her, believe in nursing as a calling—to heal, to serve, and to uplift. Through this scholarship, we honor Penny’s memory and continue her legacy in every nurse it helps empower.