Curry Duo Recognized as Massachusetts Nurse of the Year Finalists
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There is seldom an occasion more joyful than the birth of a baby, and the miracle of labor is something Obstetrics nurses Julie Grady and Joyce Hyslip-Ikkela witness often. Both nurses have each delivered thousands of babies throughout their career at Tobey Hospital in Wareham. Luckily for Curry College, both also inspire the minds of our Nursing students. Grady is an assistant professor teaching a variety of maternity courses, while Hyslip-Ikkela works in the Nursing Resource Center running pediatric and obstetrical drills.
In December 2016, Grady and Hyslip-Ikkela were each honored as finalists for the 2016 Massachusetts Nurse of the Year Award presented by the March of Dimes. The Curry duo is part of an elite group of 27 exceptional nurses who were recognized at a state-wide celebration in an effort to create awareness of professional
Professor Grady encourages her students to trust in the process of normal birth. Her philosophy is caring for patients is as important as having the science and technical knowledge. "Always above all maintain your compassion and love for what you do."
During clinical, Hyslip-Ikkela ensures students that a career in nursing is rewarding, "It is an awesome feeling being a nurse because every day you have the opportunity to make a huge difference in people's lives."
Both Grady and Hyslip-Ikkela are tireless advocates for the March of Dimes, an organization that works to end premature birth and other problems that threaten our babies, and are humbled by this special award.
Grady, who received her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Nursing from Curry, is full of gratitude for the institution, "I wouldn't be the nurse I am today if it wasn't for Curry."