Meet your 2025 valedictorians
Through all the emotional highs and lows of nursing school, Ash felt deeply supported and genuinely valued, something that made the journey not just manageable, but truly meaningful. Being the first student to complete a final practicum in psychiatric emergency services and graduating with both a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and certification in Emergency Mental Health are accomplishments she’s incredibly proud of. Looking ahead, Ash is passionate about continuing her work with vulnerable and marginalized populations, with a particular focus on women's health.
As part of our series highlighting VIU’s 2025 valedictorians leading up to convocation on June 9 and 10, we caught up with Ash to learn why she decided to attend VIU and what she loved about her experience.
Why did you choose VIU?
I chose VIU because it was the perfect place for me to continue my education while staying rooted in the community that has shaped who I am. Having grown up on the Island, I knew that VIU would provide not only a high-quality education but also the opportunity to be surrounded by the support of my family and friends. It felt like a natural step forward in both my academic and personal journey, where I could build connections, contribute to my community, and deepen my understanding of the world.
Can you share a highlight from your time at VIU?
From reconnecting with a childhood best friend to making new lifelong connections, VIU has provided me with incredible opportunities to pursue my passions. It has become a place where my goals and dreams have turned into reality. Through the emotional highs and lows of nursing school, I always felt supported and valued, which made the journey more manageable and meaningful.
What are you most proud of achieving since you began your studies?
I’m incredibly proud of the opportunity to be the first student to complete my final practicum in Psychiatric Emergency Services. I’m also grateful to be graduating with my bachelor’s degree alongside a certification in Emergency Mental Health. Additionally, being voted valedictorian is a truly humbling experience, and I’m thankful for the support I’ve received from my peers and instructors throughout my journey.
What is one thing your fellow students may remember about you after graduation? One thing I hope my fellow students will remember my dedication to fostering a caring relationship with those under my care. I strive to approach every patient with kindness, compassion and an open mind, always focusing on building trust and understanding. I believe that creating a supportive and empathetic environment is key to providing the best care possible.
What advice would you give students following a similar trajectory as yourself?
Take every opportunity that comes your way, you never know where it might lead. Fill your cup with things that bring you joy and inspire you to walk your path with purpose. Be honest with yourself about your energy levels and set boundaries to protect your well-being. Most importantly, embrace student life and all the new and fascinating experiences it offers, you'll carry these memories with you far beyond graduation.
Can you give us three random facts about yourself?
- I am a professional body piercer who integrates a trauma-informed approach to ensure safe and respectful care.
- As a published Indigenous author and nature photographer, my short stories and poetry reflect cultural perspectives and a deep connection to land and story.
- I also presented research on the ethical considerations of Track-2 Medical Assistance in Dying at the 2024 joint conference of the International Conference on Clinical Ethics and Consultation and the Canadian Bioethics Society in Montreal.
What’s next for you?
Looking ahead, I am committed to continuing both my education and my engagement in community-based care. My passion lies in working with vulnerable and marginalized populations, with a particular focus on women’s health. I envision advancing my practice through a Nurse Practitioner role in the near future, where I can further contribute to accessible, compassionate and holistic care within the communities I serve.