Pursuing Passion and Purpose in Nursing
Greely Holman, Class of 2026
Greely Holman, Class of 2026, looked into attending other Michigan universities, but she quickly realized she wanted to remain closer to Coopersville – her hometown. Her deep connection to her community, combined with Grand Valley’s strong nursing program, made GVSU the ideal choice. For Holman, this decision reflects her appreciation for her hometown and the close-knit support system she enjoys.
Although she originally considered following in the footsteps of her grandfather, a local doctor, Holman eventually realized her true passion was nursing. While her love for patient care was inspired by her grandfather’s work, her time working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) helped solidify her choice. “I’ve seen the impact my grandpa has had,” she explained, “and after working as a CNA, I fell in love with being there for people in their most vulnerable times.”
A Path to Success
Now in her second semester of Grand Valley’s nursing program, Holman spends her days on the Health Campus, gaining hands-on experience through simulations, clinicals, and more. “The resources at GVSU are amazing,” she said. “We have a simulated hospital with mannequins that allow us to build our skills, and we’re surrounded by incredible hospitals in Grand Rapids for clinicals.”
One of the standout aspects of the program for Holman is the cohort model, which allows students to move through the program together. This structure has fostered a sense of camaraderie and support among her peers, as well as with her professors. “There’s a lot of support from my peers and staff,” she said. “They push us to do things we’re nervous about and are always encouraging us. I really appreciate that.”
The Impact of Donor Support
For Holman, the financial support she’s received through scholarships has been life changing. She vividly recalls the moment she learned she had been awarded The Coopersville Promise Scholarship from Ed and Nancy Hanenburg – an award specifically for nursing students from Coopersville. She described it as an emotional and overwhelming experience. “It was crazy to me,” she said. “The scholarship allows me to focus more on my education and less on the financial aspect, which is such a blessing.”
Holman expressed immense gratitude to the Hanenburgs for their generosity, noting that their support has made her dream of becoming a nurse more attainable. The scholarship has allowed her to focus on her studies and freed her to fully engage in her education. “I will never forget receiving that email,” she said. “The support from the Hanenburgs and the Coopersville community has been incredible, and it inspires me to want to give back in the future.”
Looking to the Future
Holman sees her nursing career as a way to give back to the community that shaped her and helped instill in her many of the values and beliefs that guide her work in patient care. “I love our community,” she said. “Growing up here, I’ve learned so much about hard work and kindness, and I see those values reflected in my nursing. Coopersville made me who I am, and I’d love to stay connected to it in the future.”
As Holman continues her journey at GVSU, she does so with a deep appreciation for the opportunities provided by both her community and the donors who support students like her. With her dedication to patient care and her gratitude for the financial support she’s received, Holman embodies a spirit of giving back – something that will undoubtedly shape her future as a nurse.
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Read about the Hanenburgs and why they choose to give back here.