ISU-Meridian Graduates its Largest Class Ever; Laura Bainbridge Takes Top Student Excellence Honor

“I am thrilled and honored to receive this award. It is very unexpected,” said nursing graduate Laura Bainbridge after she was named Idaho State University-Meridian Health Science Center’s 2010 Student Excellence Award winner at graduation exercises April 26 in Boise.

Approximately 1,000 people watched from the audience as ISU graduated its largest class ever in the Treasure Valley. Commencement speaker was Idaho Lt. Gov. Brad Little.
 
Bainbridge’s honor came as no surprise to her classmates and professors who cheered as her name was announced.

“She is a leader with grace and generosity rarely seen in someone this new to the profession of nursing,” said Miki Goodwin, clinical assistant professor and coordinator of ISU-Meridian’s fast-track nursing program.

Bainbridge, who graduated with high honors, was one of seven ISU-Meridian graduates nominated by their professors for the Student Excellence Award. A committee of faculty and alumni selected the top honoree.

An eighth student, Joel Sankey, was honored as ISU’s 2010 Outstanding Doctoral Student, representing the School of Graduate Studies. Sankey received a doctorate in engineering and applied science.

Some 180 students were eligible for graduate and undergraduate degrees--the majority of which were in the health professions and sciences.

ISU President Arthur C. Vailas applauded graduates for their academic achievements and told them to honor their families for their support and guidance.  The audience chuckled when he said, “I’m already starting to feel safer with all of  the new health professionals among us.”

Degrees awarded included one Doctor of Philosophy in engineering and applied science, five Doctor of Audiology, 25 Doctor of Pharmacy, 98 master’s, 49 bachelor’s, and two associate degrees.

Graduate and undergraduate disciplines included counseling, nursing, athletic administration, public health, clinical laboratory science, physician assistant studies, dental hygiene, speech-language pathology, sign language studies, and communication sciences and disorders.