Paul Redmond presenting the award to Lily Groom.
Presented annually to a first-year nursing student who embodies the values of empathy, kindness and service, the award honours the legacy of nurse and Massey alumna Jodee Redmond.
Originally from England, Lily spent time living in Europe before settling in Hawke's Bay and later moving to Wellington to begin her nursing studies at Massey in 2025.
When she received news of the award, her first reaction was disbelief.
"I genuinely thought there had been some kind of mix-up," she laughs.
"When I found out it was real, I was pretty thrilled. To be recognised for something so innate, when you think nobody is watching, feels incredible."
Senior Tutor Andrea Thomson says Lily stood out for the genuine care she shows towards her classmates and the wider nursing community.
"Lily is kind, humble and resilient," Ms Thomson says.
"Throughout her first year, she consistently demonstrated kindness, compassion and genuine support for those around her. She approached her studies with honesty and quiet determination and was always willing to help others, even while navigating challenges of her own."
Lily says nursing has reinforced the importance of compassion in everyday interactions, whether helping a classmate with an assignment, supporting a patient through a difficult experience or simply taking the time to listen.
"Compassion is the backbone of nursing," she says.
"It is such a privilege to connect with people when they are at their most vulnerable and learn from their lives and experiences."
Ms Thomson says Lily never sought recognition for her actions, making the award especially fitting.
"Lily has been a positive and steady presence within her cohort, and her kindness, acceptance and genuine care for others reflect many of the qualities we value within nursing."
For Lily, the award has provided encouragement to continue pursuing a career dedicated to caring for others.
"It definitely gives me the motivation that I needed to keep going and to recognise that I am in the right place after all."
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