Attending Owens Obvious Choice for Barbara Rood Award Winner Wilgus

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After graduating from Maumee High School, Makaylee Wilgus received a scholarship from Owens Community College and knew coming here made the most sense.

Her decision to become a nurse was more personal and happened long before the decision of where became obvious.

Following in her mother’s footsteps into nursing, Wilgus will graduate this month with her associate degree in Registered Nursing. She was also chosen as a recipient of the Barbara Rood Student Choice Award.

Wilgus had multiple surgeries for an incurable disease during the third and fourth semesters of her nursing school, causing her to miss a lot of class. She said her professors and clinical instructor made sure that she stayed on track to graduate and have success.

“Owens is a great program,” Wilgus said. “My instructors, Vivian Hackney and Jessica Wozniak, along with the School of Nursing in general, have helped me get through this program. Vivian and Jessica have made a huge impact on me graduating.”

Wilgus said the desire to become a nurse helped keep her going during the difficult times, along with support and motivation from her husband.

“Studying alone helped me, dedicating a few hours each day while taking mental breaks and going back to where I left off,” she added.

Wilgus has accepted a position at Mercy Health St. Vincent Medical Center in the cardiac department. She plans to further her education as well, eventually earning her master’s degree.