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The family of 网红爆料 nursing graduate Juanita Harris chose to honor her legacy by presenting a scholarship in her memory to a second-year Associate Degree Nursing student. Julie Harrolle, of Olney, is the recipient of the $1,200 monetary award, which can be used for tuition, fees, books, travel or other college-related expenses.
鈥淭he scholarship will allow me to work fewer hours and to concentrate on my education,鈥 Harrolle said. 鈥淚t is a blessing. I know it didn鈥檛 seem like a lot of money to her family, but it is a huge deal to me. It has inspired me and hopefully one day I can give back in the same way.鈥 Harris鈥 daughter, Debra Harris Kircher, presented Harrolle with the scholarship on behalf of her brother, Robin Harris, and the entire family.
鈥淏eing a nurse was so important to Mom,鈥 Harris Kircher said. 鈥淚t was her life, and she loved her work. She was a good nurse. She was dedicated to quality, professional care, kindness, and compassion. She dedicated herself to Christian nursing. She helped a lot of people in the church and the community. She was the friend they always came to.鈥
Harris passed away from cancer on Feb. 21, 2021, at age 91. A non-traditional student, Harris chose to pursue a degree in nursing after her husband sustained injuries in a motor vehicle accident, which left him paralyzed. An honors student, Harris completed her associate degree in nursing in 1974, and later earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in nursing from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Harris spent her entire career serving in private medical offices. She especially enjoyed the 20 years she worked at Dr. Kimball Ewell鈥檚 practice in Eldorado before retiring at age 75. Harris inspired others to pursue nursing careers as well.
鈥淲e were proud to have four nurses in the family,鈥 Harris Kircher said. 鈥淚 became a nurse, her granddaughter has achieved a master鈥檚 degree and is completing her studies as a nurse practitioner, and her granddaughter-in-law is also a nurse.鈥
The family is excited to assist Harrolle in reaching her goal.
鈥淲e want to thank all of the friends, family and co-workers who contributed to the scholarship fund,鈥 Harris Kircher said. 鈥淲e wanted to help someone like Mom, who was trying to go back to school with a family, and maybe needed some additional financial support. We were honored to give the scholarship to Julie.鈥