CELEBRATE THE LEGACY
The Kristina R. Wenzel Life Long Learning Fund
People who knew Kris Wenzel were immediately taken by
her personality and charm. They never forgot who she was. She lived life large and exuded a joy that was contagious. As Executive Director of Central Colorado Health Education Center (CCAHEC), Kris’ passion was to make life easier and healthier for all in Colorado.
Her ability to see the big picture in health care and connect professionals in the nonprofit world was remarkable - outcomes were realized, people were inspired, and grants were funded. Students met her in medical school interviews, summer programs and in classrooms.
Community members saw her at programs and on boards. Nurses heard her laud the profession at the Nightingale Annual Award Event. Much too soon, Kris was taken from us. Those who worked with her and whose lives were touched by her will never forget how she made life good just by
being alive!
ABOUT THE AWARD
If you have earned a certification, taken continuing education for upkeep of a certification, or
attended conferences which advanced your knowledge and skills in nursing or your professional
practice, the Kris Wenzel Lifelong Learning Fund offers reimbursement up to $500 for any
funds not compensated by your employer or other means for your efforts in the calendar year
of your nomination (2024).
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Nurses who have been nominated for the Nightingale Luminary Award in the Denver metro region are eligible to apply for the reimbursement.
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The application for the award is an online process and you will be notified and encouraged to apply after your 2024 Nightingale Luminary nomination.
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The applying nurses must have a BSN or are actively pursuing this degree.
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Current year nominees will be notified of the application process by email. The reimbursement award will be given the year following the applicant’s Nightingale nomination at the next event. The 2024 Kris Wenzel Lifelong Learning awardees are announced in Spring 2025.
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The amount of the award will vary depending on the money spent by the applicant for certification or recertification and the amount collected at the silent auction conducted during the annual Nightingale event. There will be a cap of $500.00 per nurse.
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Proof of the certification/recertification expenditure will be needed.
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Selection of the awardees will be made by the Kris Wenzel Lifelong Learning Fund Team.
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Notification of the award will be made by email and letter from the Denver Regional Nightingale Association Lifelong Learning Committee preceding the event.
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It is hoped that this award will be beneficial not only to the nurse receiving it, but also to the
people of Colorado. Kris was committed to making a difference in her patients lives and would
be impressed with today’s nurses dedication to this ideal!