September 2025 Employee of the Month Nominees: Honoring Nurses

At Health Carousel International (HCI), we are honored to celebrate the journeys of international healthcare professionals who embody resilience, skill, and compassion. This month’s nominees remind us that nursing is not just a profession but a calling, where each story carries lessons of hope, courage, and perseverance.

Lovely B., RN

Current State: Indiana
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: OR, PACU, MS

With more than three years of Operating Room experience, Lovely has also served as a scrub, circulating, and charge nurse. She holds a Texas RN license along with ACLS and BLS certifications, preparing her to thrive in complex clinical settings.

Lovely was inspired to join HCI after seeing her friends succeed through the program. At a time when she was unsure of her own career direction, their stories reignited her motivation and gave her confidence to pursue her American dream.

“Going from feeling like a nobody to actually being seen and appreciated gives me the strength I need to keep growing.”

For her, this nomination is a humbling reminder that teamwork, humility, and a willingness to learn are what truly sustain nurses in their journey.

Cristie S., RN

Current State: Illinois
Country of Origin: India
Specialty: ICU, MS, NICU, Mother-Baby

Cristie has more than 35 years of nursing experience across specialties, with a deep passion for postpartum care. She has also worked in ICU, Medical-Surgical, and NICU units, where her knowledge and leadership as a Nurse Preceptor have helped shape the next generation of nurses.

She chose PassportUSA, HCI’s program, because it respected her background and matched her with opportunities aligned to her expertise and passion. She credits her supervisors and colleagues for their support during her transition to nursing in the US.

“With hard work and persistence, we can definitely achieve our goals.”

Cristie says being nominated is not just recognition of her career, but also a message to her children and peers that perseverance and dedication make dreams possible.

Jade Y., RN

Current State: Maine
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS

Jade’s journey began during the pandemic, when she reflected on her career and found HCI through the Aspire Program. The program supported her from NCLEX preparation through her start as a US nurse, giving her the foundation she needed to pursue her lifelong dream.

Her US experience has taught her resilience, independence, and the importance of work-life balance. She has learned to adapt to the challenges of living far from home, while also finding joy in exploring new places.

“Resilience and balance helped me adapt, grow, and thrive in a new country.”

For Jade, being nominated validates her dedication and motivates her to keep excelling in her work while inspiring others.

Gladys D., RN

Current State: Indiana
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: Pediatrics

With 11 years of experience, including 8 in a Joint Commission International–accredited facility, Gladys brings strong pediatric expertise and a deep passion for patient care. She holds a BLS certification and is recognized for her dedication to excellence.

She was drawn to HCI for its mission to improve lives and make healthcare work better—values that align with her own. Since beginning her US journey, she has embraced teamwork and continuous growth.

“Life is a journey, not a destination. Embracing growth and adaptation are the keys to thriving.”

Her nomination, she says, is a proud achievement that reflects her pursuit of excellence and her commitment to patients.

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Dannielle Nicole T., RN

Current State: New Jersey
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: OR, L&D, PACU

Dannielle has two years of experience in the Operating Room, PACU, and Labor & Delivery. She is detail-oriented and proactive, with a strong focus on patient safety and quality care.

She joined HCI as a stepping stone to achieve her American dream. Along the way, she has gained advanced training and skills, making her more versatile and confident in her practice.

“From once having a dream that turned into reality, this recognition means more to me than words can express.”

For Dannielle, being nominated is both an honor and a motivator to keep taking on new challenges in her career.

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Katherine J., RN

Current State: New Jersey
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS, CCU

Katherine began her career as a Nursing Clinical Instructor in the Philippines before transitioning to bedside nursing. With four years of clinical experience, she has served in Medical-Surgical and Critical Care roles, bringing both academic knowledge and practical expertise.

She chose HCI after seeing the positive transformations of her former students, who shared their success stories of support, ethics, and opportunity through the program. Since working in the US, she has learned that teamwork, presence, and service are the foundations of nursing.

“Teamwork multiplies our efforts, showing up builds trust, and service gives our work meaning.”

Her nomination, she says, is not just personal recognition but a testament to her commitment to patients and colleagues alike.

Patricia T., RN

Current State: Maryland
Country of Origin: Philippines
Specialty: MS

With more than two years of experience in Medical-Surgical care, Patricia is known for her thorough assessments, wound care, and patient education. She brings a passion for growth and a strong commitment to quality care.

Her HCI journey began when her husband applied on her behalf nine years ago. Since then, she has embraced her nursing career in the US with gratitude and dedication.

“No matter how busy we are at work, we must make time to enjoy life and cherish family.”

For Patricia, being nominated is an honor that makes her feel valued, recognized, and motivated to keep giving her best.

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Honoring Our Nominees

This month’s nominees—Lovely, Cristie, Jade, Gladys, Dannielle, Katherine, and Patricia—represent the resilience and heart of international nurses across the US. Their journeys remind us that every challenge faced along the way is a step toward transformation. At HCI, we are proud to celebrate their stories and the impact they make in healthcare every day.