It is with great pride that I nominate Bailin Youngblood for the DAISY Award. As a faculty member who has had the privilege of observing his growth, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his peers from the sophomore 1 level, I can confidently say he exemplifies the compassion, integrity, and service that define the nursing profession at its best. From the moment Bailin entered our program, he distinguished himself as a natural leader. He has served as Class President for Sophomore I Fall 2024, as the Sophomore II Class Student Life Representative, and as Social VP Chair for the Student Engagement Association. Bailin is also an active member of SNA, consistently volunteering his time and energy to support organizational initiatives. In every role, he demonstrates maturity, professionalism, and a genuine desire to strengthen our learning community. What truly sets Bailin apart is his dedication to underserved and underrepresented students. Without being asked, he organizes study sessions on his own time for classmates who are struggling academically. These sessions are more than tutoring—they are safe, supportive spaces where students feel encouraged, respected, and empowered. Bailin’s ability to mentor with patience, humility, and cultural awareness has made a profound difference in the success and confidence of many of his peers.

His commitment to service extends well beyond the walls of our institution. Bailin volunteers at the local food bank whenever possible and is deeply involved in his church community. Whether he is distributing food, supporting community programs, or offering a helping hand, he consistently demonstrates the compassion and selflessness that are the hallmarks of exceptional nursing care. As faculty, we often talk about the kind of nurse we hope our students will become—ethical, empathetic, community-minded, and committed to lifting others up. This student already embodies those qualities. He is a role model, a mentor, and a steady source of encouragement for those around him. His impact on our program is undeniable, and his future in nursing is exceptionally bright. For these reasons, I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically nominate Bailin Youngblood for the DAISY.