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National Nurses Week is a celebration for all nurses who care for the health and dignity of their patients. �鶹�� just graduated its latest class of future nurses, and we are excited to see how these students will positively impact health care. One of these graduates is Courtney Brink, who, upon passing her boards, plans to work in the intensive care unit at Faith Health in Norfolk, Nebraska.

It started with a dream

Brink knew from a young age that she wanted to pursue a career in health care. She enjoys all things science, math and critical thinking. What drew her to nursing was the positive impact she could have on those most vulnerable and the connections she could form with patients. “I noticed that in chaotic or high-stress situations, I didn’t shy away; instead, I felt a sense of purpose in being the calm, steady presence others could rely on,” Brink explained. “Whether it was comforting someone, stepping in to help or simply listening, I found fulfillment in being there for people in ways that truly mattered.”
 
Brink appreciates how in nursing she is always challenged to think critically, act with compassion and advocate for her patients. “I was drawn to the idea that nurses are often the ones who notice the small changes, speak up when something isn’t right, and make sure the patient’s voice is heard. It’s not always about saving a life. It’s about improving someone’s experience, preserving their dignity and showing them they matter, even in the hardest moments. That’s the kind of difference I want to make, and nursing gives me the opportunity to do that consistently.”

The �鶹�� impact

Brink decided to attend �鶹�� to achieve her dream because its Benedictine values closely align with the core principles of nursing. “I wanted an education that focused not only on academic success but also on developing strong, moral and ethical foundations.” Brink was shaped into the nurse she always aspired to be through the leadership opportunities, classes and internship experiences she found while at �鶹��.

Brink found ways to grow in leadership as both president of �鶹��’s Student Nurses Association (SNA) and of the South Dakota Student Nurses Association (SDSNA). “Being involved in leadership positions like SNA and SDSNA has allowed me to advocate for nursing students, collaborate with others, and develop confidence in my voice,” Brink explained. She also worked as a patient care technician at Avera Sacred Heart in Yankton and in the intensive care unit at Faith Health, and appreciated every opportunity to gain hands-on experience beyond her clinicals. “I enjoyed building relationships with patients and their families, being part of a health care team, and seeing the direct impact of compassionate care.”

Brink's passion for caring for individuals in their most trying times became apparent during her summer internship in the neonatal intensive care unit at Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. On her first day, she cared for a set of premature twins, who would come to inspire her throughout her time on the floor. 

“They required intubation for respiratory support and were so medically fragile that they were barely able to open their eyes,” Brink recounted. “At that time, their condition highlighted both the complexity and vulnerability of neonatal care.” Toward the end of her internship, she was able to care for those twins again. “One of the most impactful parts for me is seeing the growth and resilience of these babies. Going from needing full support to eventually feeding, growing and going home is something that never gets old. It’s incredibly inspiring and reminds me why the work matters.”

Serving as a future nurse

Overall, it wasn't the big moments that helped shape Brink, but the small interactions in which she felt her care take root in others. "Sometimes, it’s about showing genuine compassion, patience and attentiveness ... I want my patients to know that they matter and that their dignity is respected, and this focus on compassionate, holistic care is something I will carry with me throughout my nursing career.”

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About �鶹�� University

Founded in 1936 by the Sisters of Sacred Heart Monastery, �鶹�� University is South Dakota’s only Catholic, Benedictine institution of higher education. Located along the bluffs of the Missouri River in Yankton, with additional locations in Watertown and Sioux Falls, �鶹�� offers undergraduate and graduate degrees focusing on student and alumni success in high-demand fields such as health sciences, education, criminal justice, business, accounting, recreation management, and more. A community of learners in the Benedictine tradition, �鶹�� emphasizes academic excellence and develops well-rounded students with intellectual competence, professional and personal skills and moral, spiritual and social values. To learn more, visit .