Kristin Runyon’s compassion and dedication to nursing continue to inspire future caregivers through a memorial scholarship established in her name.
Kristin’s life and promising nursing career were tragically cut short in 2010. She is remembered for her unwavering commitment to patient care and her passion for the nursing profession. Her legacy lives on through the Kristin Runyon Memorial Scholarship, which recently awarded funds to seven aspiring nurses.
- Audrey Leke of Westminster, Maryland
- Ke-lhja DeShields of York
- Madison Yates of Greencastle
- Melany Gallegos Saquicela of Inwood, West Virginia
- Sarah Goodman of Elkridge, Maryland
- Paige Himes of Orrstown
- Noelia Deleon Mazariegos of Chambersburg
These students embody the compassion and dedication Kristin championed throughout her career.
Kristin’s mother, Barb Runyon, helped establish the scholarship to honor her daughter’s memory and support future nurses. The scholarship is available to full-time students enrolled in a registered nurse education program who maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8 and reside in Franklin County or the surrounding area.
Since its inception in 2011, the fund has awarded $130,000 to 42 nursing students. It is sustained by generous donations from family, friends, colleagues, former patients, and the broader community.
The scholarship not only provides financial assistance but also encourages recipients to pursue nursing with the same passion Kristin exemplified.
Recipients share how support fuels their nursing dreams
Audrey Leke, a student at Wilson College, said the scholarship helps her balance work and studies while pursuing her dream of becoming a nurse. “Nursing is the intersection of my passion and purpose,” she said. “Each clinical rotation reaffirms my commitment to serve humanity effectively.”
Ke-lhja DeShields, a student at York College of Pennsylvania, shared how her personal health journey shaped her nursing path. “Being the patient allowed me to relate to the patients I care for in clinical and understand them on a deeper level,” she said. “It’s a gift I will forever be thankful for.”
Madison Yates, a student at West Virginia University, works on the bone marrow transplant unit at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital. “Through my work experience with oncology patients, I am certain this is the work I am meant to do,” she said. “This scholarship allows me to continue pursuing my degree without the financial burden.”
Melany Gallegos Saquicela, a student at Shepherd University, was inspired to become a nurse after losing her mother to COVID-19. “The ICU nurses showed such compassion and professionalism during a stressful time,” she said. “It solidified my desire to work in critical care.”
Sarah Goodman, a senior at York College of Pennsylvania, is a returning scholarship recipient. “Receiving this award reminded me that there is power in perseverance and beauty in resilience,” she said. “I strive to be a nurse who listens deeply and supports each patient’s dignity.”
Paige Himes, a student at Penn State Mont Alto, works in labor and delivery and urgent care. “I enjoy taking the time to get to know my patients and build relationships,” she said. “There’s always something new to learn—even just by listening.”
Noelia Deleon Mazariegos, a student at Harrisburg Area Community College at Gettysburg Campus, is currently working as a Licensed Practical Nurse at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital. “I chose nursing because I want to be a voice and source of healing for others,” she said. “The financial support of the Kristin Runyon Memorial Scholarship will allow me to focus more fully on my coursework and clinicals while continuing to work at the hospital.”
As more students benefit from the scholarship, Kristin’s dedication to nursing continues to inspire a new generation of health care professionals—ensuring her influence endures well beyond her years at WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital.
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