EXCELLENCE IN WORKFORCE
ACHIEVEMENT
These men and women demonstrated academic excellence, exemplary study and work habits, potential to succeed, problem solving skills, progress toward self-sufficiency, and responsibility. The eight recipients of this award were:
ROSALIE “ROSE” NELSON As a girl, Rosalie “Rose” Nelson dreamed of becoming a nurse, but life does not always work out the way we wish it could. Rose married at 19, raised 3 lovely children, and lived her life happily. When her youngest son was a senior in high school and her other two children in college, she decided to pursue her earlier dream. She had been out of school over 20 years, but returning to school gave her new found strength and determination. Things were not easy. Rose juggled two jobs, she was a full-time wife and mother, and she took classes in the evening. Her husband was injured on the job and required multiple
surgeries. The challenges deepened her resolve, grit, and faith. Rose’s experience reveals the depth of her commitment to succeed. After leaving California and starting over in Texas, Rose began working at WalMart and taking classes when she could at Temple College. In 2014, she was accepted into Temple College’s Associate Degree Nursing Program (an honor in itself). Workforce Solutions of Central Texas provided support through the WIOA Adult program which covered training costs and counseling support. While in school, several family members faced medical
problems with her beloved father-inlaw passing away before Rose could complete her nursing program. In May of 2016, Rose graduated with honors, passed her boards, and officially became a registered nurse. On June 27th, she entered employment with Baylor Scott & White Hospital as a Graduate Nurse making $24.25 per hour. When asked about her experience, Rose explained that she is pleased with her accomplishment, but she wished her father-in-law had been there to see it, adding she feels sure he knows and is proud. Rose acknowledges that the journey was tough, but thanks God that she was able to achieve her dreams.