How the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund Empowers Nurses

Empowering the Next Generation of Nurses

A tribute to Patty and John Hanson, whose contributions to Ochsner continue to advance nursing education and excellence

By Olivia Watson

For Patty Hanson, sharing knowledge with others was more than a passion—it was her calling. From leading the intensive care unit at Touro Infirmary and writing self-care manuals for dialysis patients at Ochsner Health to eventually publishing a guidebook for patients suffering from cancer, Patty was devoted to educating herself, her colleagues and every patient who walked through the hospital doors.

When Patty passed away in 2014, her husband created the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund in her honor. This fund grants scholarships to aspiring nurses so they can continue learning and striving for excellence in their communities.

A loving husband and donor to the fund, John Hanson recently passed away. Today, the Hanson family’s light and legacy lives on in the bright futures of scholarship awardees.

Partnering with Chamberlain University

When the fund was first created in 2014, the idea was to financially support nurses in their research or educational endeavors. But when John learned about Ochsner’s educational alliance program with Chamberlain University’s College of Nursing, the fund took on a new shape.

In 2018, the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Fund was officially re-dedicated as a scholarship for Chamberlain University nursing students. The nationally accredited nursing program at Chamberlain aligned perfectly with Ochsner’s mission to “educate, empower and embolden diverse healthcare professionals who advance the health of people, families, communities and nations.”

“The award is given to two nursing students training at Chamberlain University College of Nursing at Ochsner,” explained Jennifer Couvillon, PhD, RN-BC, CNE, President of Chamberlain University’s New Orleans, Louisiana campus. “Patty Hanson awardees have overcome challenges and demonstrated an above-and-beyond, caring spirit.”

John Hanson, center with the first two recipients of the Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Scholarship and a portrait of Patty at the dedication in 2018.

Photo courtesy of Ochsner Philanthropy

Inspiring the next generation of nurses

This year, De-Edra Robinson embodied excellence in the nursing community, earning her place as the fall 2022 recipient. “It came as a huge surprise that I was nominated,” she said. “I was so excited.”

A dedicated student and Ochsner employee, De-Edra used to work overnight as a histology technician in Ochsner’s lab while attending nursing classes at Chamberlain University during the day. Commuting from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, the time between her work shift and class was limited—so she would sometimes stay in her car for a few hours of sleep.

“As a leader, I want to inspire others. I’ve had plenty of doors closed in my face, but I never gave up. I am a first-generation college student and will be completing my third degree next year. ”

— De-Edra Robinson

“This scholarship has transformed my family’s life,” she shared. “It has allowed me to stop working and focus on nursing school.” In the fall, De-Edra will begin as a full-time student at Chamberlain University.

Paying success forward

For Ochsner, Chamberlain University and the Gulf South community at large, success doesn’t end with this award. Recipients continue empowering others after graduation by sharing their knowledge and passion just like Patty.

“Mr. and Mrs. Hanson’s education fund is a gift of love to future generations of caregivers,” Dr. Couvillon said. “It is an honor to keep the Hanson family legacy alive, especially considering these awardees give back to the community in so many more ways than we could ever give to them.”

This couldn’t be more true of De-Edra. “As a leader, I want to inspire others,” she said. “I’ve had plenty of doors closed in my face, but I never gave up. I am a first generation college student and will be completing my third degree next year.”

This opportunity comes as a firm reminder of how powerful a supportive, welcoming learning environment can be: “Never doubt yourself,” De-Edra said. “The only time you really fail is when you don’t try at all.” Patty and John Hanson would surely agree.

De-Edra Robinson outside of Chamberlain University in her medical scrubs.

Photo courtesy of De-Edra Robinson

Patty Hanson Nursing Excellence Awardees

FALL 2022: De-Edra Robinson

SPRING 2022: Samantha Oestriecher

FALL 2021: Christian Wilson

SPRING 2021: Tegan Moersfelder

FALL 2020: Ovena Darius

SUMMER 2020: Sonja Schuster

SPRING 2020: Kaitlynn Moran

FALL 2019: Michelle Theriot

SUMMER 2019: Jada Davis and Princess Jones