This story first appeared in the 2023 Annual Update >
As the sole benefactor of Vail Health’s Nurse Extern program, launched in the summer of 2023, Sally Veitch provides nursing students with an opportunity to gain practical experience in a hospital setting different from what they might otherwise encounter. Her generous spirit and philanthropic efforts are positively impacting future nurses and Vail Health.
Making the Transition from Classroom to Clinic
The eight-week summer externship prepares students for professional nursing roles and exposes them to various clinical areas within Vail Health Hospital. The program includes connection, mentorship, and hands-on experience for nursing students.
Sally’s giving provides the externs with an hourly wage, a housing stipend, and a travel allotment. Last year’s pilot program involved two students from Sally’s alma mater, Colby-Sawyer College, and two from other colleges.
Providing Real-World Experience
This program allows future nurses to gain valuable clinical exposure while supporting busy hospital departments. The students are integrated into Vail Health’s culture and build relationships with the nursing community. The aim is for the nursing students to become skilled clinicians and transition smoothly into their nursing careers upon graduation.
“I was able to see how critical nursing in a small hospital can be, and I enjoyed seeing the autonomy of the nursing staff. I am amazed at the relationship between the units that helps the hospital run smoothly,” says Julie Parent, Nurse Extern program participant and Colby-Sawyer College student.
“I got to meet the nurse externs, and it seemed like they got a lot out of their summer at Vail Health,” says Sally. “I am optimistic about the program’s future and see it filling an important role in developing nurses at Vail Health. I’m happy to support the growth of this program through my family’s foundation.”
Continuing a Legacy of Giving
Giving back is a value instilled in Sally by her parents, Harold and Mary Louise Shaw. While the couple had supported Vail Health over decades and in various ways, their passion for enhancing care in the Vail Valley ultimately led to their transformative gift to build the Vail Health Shaw Cancer Center.
Sally has continued her parents’ generous legacy through the Nurse Extern program and her support of other areas at Vail Health, like Jack’s Place and Vail Health Behavioral Health. Together, Sally and her late parents have made a lasting impact on our community.
I am optimistic about the program’s future and see it filling an important role in developing nurses at Vail Health.”Sally Veitch