Practical Nursing student April Caldwell was one of two students recently nominated for the April 2026 Sunflower Award by her classmates, Lizzie Flory and Emily Palmer. April is currently in her third semester of the full time CCCTC Practical Nursing Program.
She was nominated in recognition of her ability to consistently go above and beyond expectations in caring for her patients, supporting her fellow students, and contributing positively to her clinical and learning environments.
April’s classmates shared the following in their nominations: “April is the light in the dark, the rainbow on a rainy day. She is 100% a role model and someone I look up to for many reasons. She is wonderful in every way, and I appreciate her endlessly,” and “She’s always laughing, smiling, and willing to help. She lifts the entire class’s mood with her sense of humor.”
The Sunflower Award was chosen because the sunflower represents happiness, optimism, honesty, longevity, peace, admiration, and devotion. It symbolizes the universal ability to bring joy, qualities that future nurses strive to embody in the care of their patients. Students may be nominated by classmates, patients, instructors, or anyone who has been inspired by their kindness, compassion, and dedication.
Pictured left to right: Elizabeth Flory, April Caldwell, Emily Palmer, and Roberta Bradford, Nursing Program Director