ABOVE PHOTO: Anna Wittrock, 21, of Eau Claire, graduated from Chippewa Valley Technical College with an associate degree in nursing on Thursday, Dec. 14. Weeks before she graduated, she was named the Wisconsin Nurses Association (WNA) Future Nursing Leader. Wittrock has accepted an registered nurse position with Mayo Clinic Health System.
“I wanted to have an impact on patients’ lives and a larger connection with patients,” she said. “That’s what made me go into nursing.”
For Annabelle Wittrock, all roads led to Chippewa Valley Technical College to study health care.
“My whole family is in health care,” she said. “I feel like because I grew up around people in health care, it sparked my interest.”
Not only did Wittrock, of Eau Claire, graduate with her associate degree in nursing this month, but during CVTC’s nurse pinning ceremony, she was also congratulated for being named a Wisconsin Nurses Association (WNA) Future Nursing Leader. The award grants her membership status in the state and national organizations for one year and provides an opportunity for Wittrock to serve on one of WNA’s three councils and a number of task forces.
“These types of groups provide for real-time leadership growth,” said Elizabeth Markham, WNA president.
Wittrock was humbled by the recognition.
“I’m thankful that I was nominated for it and that they thought of me when they thought about the award,” she said. “The support I’ve gotten from CVTC instructors has been incredible. Because of that, I feel like I will be a good nurse.”
Sarah Zech, one of Wittrock’s CVTC nursing instructors, nominated Wittrock for the award.
“She has a unique talent for inspiring fellow students to become more engaged in the nursing club’s activities,” Zech said. “Annabelle’s motivational skills have been instrumental in transforming our club from a state of stagnation into one that is dynamic and vibrant.”
Zech said Wittrock has also helped other nursing students by providing academic support and fostering camaraderie.
Wittrock accepted an RN position at Mayo Clinic Health System in Eau Claire and is excited to begin her new journey.
“I wanted to have an impact on patients’ lives and a larger connection with patients,” she said. “That’s what made me go into nursing.”
