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WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, 2024
THE NORTH PLATTE TELEGRAPH
2024 Nominees in Education
Aida Ullrich
Lana Watson
Nominator: Hannah Hoaglund Lana Watson became a registered nurse in 1997. She worked at Great Plains Health as an obstetric nurse until 2011 when she started teaching at Mid-Plains Community College to help educate and instruct students as a nurse educator and Clinical Coordinator. MPCC Director of Nursing Kathy Harrison said Lana’s dedication, hard work and commitment have significantly contributed to the success of the nursing students and the nursing program. “Lana has demonstrated excellence, leadership and dedication in her profession of nursing as well as being a nurse educator,” nominator Hannah Hoaglund said. “Her commitment to helping students succeed is truly inspiring. She goes above and beyond her job description to make sure that
each and every student she works with receives the guidance they need to reach their full potential.” In addition to her role at the college, Lana is a member of the West Central District Health Department’s Board of Health, the McPherson County School Board and the McPherson County Improvement Club, and is an adviser for the MPCC chapter of the Nebraska State Student Nurse Association Previously she had been a member of the West Central Emergency Response Corps. “She is someone who likes to cheerlead for those around her and continues to be a supportive member of the communities she is involved in,” Addie Schaeffer wrote. “I think she is a great role model for those around her and shows how important it is to continue to pursue your dreams and give back at the same time.”
Community College. She has been with this program for eight years and teaches both at the college and for North Platte Feeders. Aida was also recognized at the Hispanic Heritage Gala for cultivating education. “Many immigrants to the United States arrive with a strong desire to be active, productive members of the community, but often lack language skills and resources,” Janet Livingston wrote. “Aida’s sponsorship in their efforts to improve their English language skills and to provide support for them has made a positive difference in their lives.” and consistently gentle approach. Laura said her son had been diagnosed with ADHD, and his brain was churning faster than his little body could handle and he simply could not contain his explosive energy. “Enter Mrs. Henderson,” Laura wrote. “Her first priority was getting to know him: what his interests were, what he would respond to and what he wouldn't. She did not attempt to put (him) in a mold. She built a foundation of love for him, making sure she truly knew him.” With Katy’s support and care, Laura said, her son instantly felt loved, seen, known and secure. Katy’s patience, expertise “I can truly say that no teacher has had the impact on a child the way Mrs. Henderson has influenced our (son). She is constantly going beyond what is asked of her, she is patient, she is creative, she is full of grace. She is a fountain of encouragement. Her kindness and gentleness are unmatched.”
Nominator: Janet Livingston Born in Ecuador, Aida Ullrich first came to the United States as an exchange student. She later moved permanently to the U.S. and achieved citizenship. Aida uses her bilingual skills to help others who have recently moved to the U.S. or who may have limited English proficiency. She has worked with the Healthy Families America program and the Minority Health Initiative programs at West Central District Health Department, and later worked with Legal Aid as an interpreter. Now, Aida teaches the English as a Second Language program through the Adult Education program at Mid-Plains Nominator: Laura Heirigs An early childhood educator for 20 years, Katy Henderson has taught first grade at Washington and kindergarten at Jefferson and Washington elementary schools and currently teaches kindergarten at McDaid Elementary. McDaid Principal Pam Wood said Katy’s “passion for teaching kindergarten stems from her belief in the power of early childhood education and its ability to shape the future.” “Patience is at the heart of teaching and Mrs. Henderson’s patience is unparalleled,” she wrote. “She approaches each day with a calm demeanor and a willingness to guide her students through their learning experiences, no matter how challenging they may be. Mrs. Henderson is always willing to take time to answer questions and reassure parents.” Laura Heirigs wrote that Katy had a life-changing impact on her son, noting
Katy Henderson
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