Impact

Ken created this scholarship in loving honor and memory of his wife, Jill Ladwig (1956 – 2017) who started her nursing career in high school as a “candy striper”, worked her way through college as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), and with hard work and dedication, she graduated as a Registered Nurse with a bachelor’s degree from the UWM in 1979. Jill then had a long career helping people in various health care positions — hospital floor nurse, supervisor, instructor for CNA candidates, and wellness nurse for the elderly, among others. She was quick to help everyone and was an invaluable health resource to her patients, family, and friends, providing support on a range of medical, mental health, and addiction issues. Her commitment to excellence and dedication was evident in every aspect of her life.

Jill strongly believed that CNAs served a critical role in health care. As an instructor, she stressed attention to detail and taught excellence in care skills. She uniquely bonded with her students, and many of them moved on to lifelong positions in the health care field. Her knowledge and insight as an RN set her apart in the nursing profession, but perhaps most important to her success were an open mind and firm adherence to the principles the patient came first and was always to be treated with dignity and respect. Jill had a special passion for those that had difficulties caring for themselves, such as the elderly and those with addiction problems, where her abilities as an empathetic listener and patient advocate were especially valuable.

Scholarships

• Jill M. Ladwig Nursing Scholarship