Dr. Melissa Wilson is a trailblazer in nursing. Currently serving as a nurse scientist at Mayo Clinic’s department of nursing, her research experience spans a vast array of topics such as moral distress, acute pain management, the use of health technologies and the role of Advance Practice Registered Nurses. She was awarded a U.S. Patent and two invention disclosures for health care technology used in military health care systems. Her work has profoundly impacted health care delivery, particularly through her groundbreaking research to establish moral distress as an experience in military health care providers and the development of innovative technologies to support patients and providers in the transport of injured military members. These contributions, along with her extensive publications and leadership in nursing ethics, have earned her national and international recognition.

Wilson’s dedication to education and mentorship exemplifies her commitment to shaping the future of nursing. Having served as a chair of nursing, associate director and many other faculty roles in her years in nursing education, she led transformative efforts to deliver accessible, high-quality academic programs, often to underserved areas of need.

Her impact extends beyond her academic and research roles. She continues to mentor and guide others with compassion and professionalism through her service as a research mentor at Mayo Clinic, involvement in both professional and personal organizations and through service to her community. Wilson, her husband and children fostered 10 children, mostly teenagers, over four years because of the opiate epidemic in their rural hometown. Her and her family continue to advocate for the needs of children in the system who have experienced disruption and trauma.

A proud Mizzou Nursing alumna, Wilson remains deeply connected to her alma mater. Through her ongoing support and achievements, she has elevated the school’s reputation and inspired generations of nurses. Her exemplary career embodies the values of leadership, innovation and integrity, making her a deserving honoree and a shining example for the nursing community.

Dr. Jessica Hoehne, a distinguished three-time graduate of the Sinclair School of Nursing, embodies excellence in nursing leadership and innovation, making her a deserving recipient of the Nursing Alumni Achievement Award. She currently serves as the director of nursing with the Office of Professional Practice at MU Health Care, where she continues to advance nursing excellence and professional development. In her previous role as clinical manager of the neuroscience service line at MU Health Care, Hoehne demonstrated transformative leadership, overseeing the expansion of a 30-bed NSICU and driving significant improvements in patient satisfaction, employee engagement and retention rates. Her leadership has elevated the performance and reputation of her units while fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.

Hoehne’s commitment to advancing the nursing profession is evident in her impactful contributions to education and mentorship. Her DNP project, which focused on a formalized mentorship program for new graduate nurses, has been widely recognized, with national presentations, poster sessions and a publication. As a former adjunct clinical instructor at the Sinclair School of Nursing, Hoehne inspired students to embrace evidence-based practices and pursue clinical excellence. Her efforts have significantly influenced the development of future nursing professionals while advancing the reputation of Mizzou’s nursing programs.

Beyond her clinical and educational roles, Hoehne actively supports the nursing profession through leadership roles as a board of director for the Missouri Nurses Association’s West Region and as chair of leadership succession for Sigma Theta Tau’s Alpha Iota Chapter. She also participates in interdisciplinary initiatives like the Activity and Mobility Project, which focuses on assessing patient mobility, setting goals and working toward improved outcomes. Her dedication to professional growth, patient-centered care and community engagement highlights her as a role model for nursing alumni. Hoehne’s accomplishments reflect the values of the Sinclair School of Nursing and the potential for even greater contributions to the field.

Rebecca Graves has made exceptional contributions to the Sinclair School of Nursing through her steadfast support of nursing research and education. As an educational services librarian at the J. Otto Lottes Health Sciences Library, Graves has collaborated with nursing faculty on key initiatives, including systematic reviews and grant-funded projects such as best practices for managing COVID-19 in nursing homes. Her work has advanced nursing science and strengthened the school’s academic foundation.

Graves’ dedication to student success is equally commendable. She regularly presents to nursing students at all levels, offering guidance on literature searches, bibliographic tools and research strategies. Her ability to simplify complex academic processes has empowered countless students, particularly those returning to academia for advanced degrees. Graves’ approachable teaching style fosters confidence and ensures students are well-equipped to navigate their research and writing journeys.

Recognized for her professional excellence and commitment to collaboration, Graves has significantly enhanced the “Cycle of Success” at the universityby linking libraries, faculty and students in a shared pursuit of academic achievement. Her leadership, innovation and unwavering support have left a lasting impact on the Sinclair School of Nursing. Graves’ dedication to the nursing profession and the university community makes her a deserving recipient of the Honorary Alumni Award.