Carianna Downie, of Geneva, OH, is earning her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the College of Health and has been a positive light since starting at 51����.  

Her passion and drive to enter the healthcare field stems from her personal experiences of living with a health disorder and her desire to uplift others, be an advocate for equitable healthcare and her sheer determination for success. A student in the 51���� Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Honors College, Downie maintained a GPA of 3.97 while spearheading research, mentoring other students and volunteering countless hours in the community. One of her high points was being inducted into Sigma Theta Tau, an International Honor Society of Nursing. 

Her experiences have helped her springboard into her next phase after commencement, in which she has accepted a position in the critical care unit at a level I trauma center and plans to leverage her experience to gain admission into graduate school with the ultimate goal of earning a Doctor of Nursing in anesthesia practice.

“My academic and professional journey has been molded by resilience, a commitment to those I represent, and sheer determination to succeed,” said Downie. “Being considered for valedictorian is an incredible honor, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to share my journey and aspirations. This recognition is not only a testament to my dedication but also a profound reminder of the responsibility I carry to uplift others, advocate for equitable healthcare, and contribute positively to the communities I serve.”

Downie was selected as the Commencement speaker for the morning Commencement ceremony on May 10. The ceremonies will be available for viewing on 51����’s Commencement web page.