Travis Blanton was nominated by nursing student K, who completed her senior practicum under his guidance at Mercy–Southeast in the Pre-operative, PACU, and Outpatient departments. K describes Travis as “phenomenal”—a mentor who inspires excellence, models compassion, and teaches with unmatched patience and positivity.

As her preceptor, Travis took time to explain every process until it made sense, never rushing and never judging. His calm, encouraging approach created a learning environment where confidence could grow. 'He always encouraged me to be confident and reminded me to trust my skills,' K shared. 'He taught and led by example—always kind, generous, and supportive.'

Travis’s enthusiasm for nursing is contagious. He arrives each day ready to make a difference, lifting both colleagues and students up with words of encouragement and sincere recognition of their efforts. His genuine joy in caring for others inspires everyone around him to bring that same energy and compassion to their work.

K reflected, 'In all my years of learning, I have never had a teacher as grand as Travis. He took time to understand how I learn and never made me feel bad for not knowing something. He restored my belief that good teachers do exist.'

Through his mentorship, empathy, and passion, Travis Blanton embodies the true spirit of the DAISY Award for Nurse Educators—a nurse who teaches not just with skill, but with heart.