Scholarship Honors Legacy of Donna Marie Swirczynski

Donna Swirczynski built a career out of her passion for helping her community through her work in healthcare. A graduate of the Boise State nursing program in 1993, Donna was never one to stop expanding her knowledge of patient care through education and research projects.

Combined with a devoted work ethic, she was uniquely gifted at applying her knowledge to the work environment as she held various positions with St. Luke’s Health System. Starting as a pediatric nurse, her roles also included RN, interim director and clinical nurse specialist as she worked her way into hospital management.

Donna specifically made a big impact with her research in the neonatal intensive care unit, leading to improvements in the type of care provided within it. Other hospitals across the country would eventually implement some of her work as a result of her findings as well.

Education and nursing practices were essential to her. So, with a gift from her estate, Donna’s family established the Health Science Scholarship in Nursing at Boise State University to promote higher education and encourage future nursing students.

“We view scholarship awards as a gift from Donna and hope it will encourage students to choose a career in nursing. The scholarship is an opportunity for Donna to continue to contribute to the nursing profession in the future.”

The endowment will preserve Donna’s legacy and passion for her work while continuing to benefit nursing students who choose to attend Boise State University.

Boise State wishes to thank Donna, her family and husband Paul for helping preserve her story and supporting students with this remarkable gift.