2024 Recipient

From a young age, Hailey knew healthcare was her calling. She explored her passion early by studying biomedical sciences in high school and later entered college with an initial focus on pre-med and surgery. As she progressed, she explored nutrition, but nursing spoke to her in a way that felt right. Now she is on the path to fulfilling her dream, preparing to become a pediatric nurse and eventually transition into a traveling nurse role to serve communities across the country.

Her journey is exciting but comes with financial challenges. Tuition, rent, and living expenses largely fall on her own shoulders, although her parents help as much as they can. One of her roommates, Kristina, encouraged her to apply for this scholarship. She attended the Ryan Lipparelli Memorial Walk and heard heartfelt stories from Ryan’s family and friends. The overwhelming kindness and unity surrounding his legacy inspired her.

Reflecting on Ryan’s impact, she says:

"While I will never have the chance to meet Ryan, I believe he lives on in all of the people who have been brought together to create the educational trust."

Those who know her best describe her as outgoing, talkative, and deeply committed. She is the kind of person who puts others first, drops everything to help a friend, and thrives in socially interactive environments. She is hardworking and dedicated, quickly earning promotions in her professional roles.

Outside of nursing, she has made a lasting impact through volunteer work. What began as a class requirement for a disability-focused program turned into something she continues doing long after the service hours were completed. She contributes to Art for Nevada, an intellectual disability program, and Amplify Life, where she helps individuals with disabilities gain skills for employment in the food industry.

She has always had an athletic side, playing soccer and snowboarding while making fitness a priority with daily gym sessions. She enjoys reading and spending time with friends, balancing adventure with quiet moments.

Her journey reflects the spirit of the Ryan Lipparelli Scholarship through passion, perseverance, and a commitment to making a difference.