Graduate Spotlight: Jessica Borzansky, BSN
BH WELL is proud of Jessica “Jess” Borzansky for completing her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the UK College of Nursing! Throughout her time at UK, Jess has combined a passion for high-acuity patient care with a strong commitment to research, mentorship, and evidence-based practice. Her experiences in critical care settings and involvement with BH WELL have shaped her into a thoughtful, driven future nurse leader. BH WELL Executive Director, Dr. Zim Okoli, shares, “Jess is the future of nursing—a clinician with insatiable inquisitiveness who will use research to drive evidence-based practice and policy changes that make a difference in the lives of people, families, and communities. We are so proud of her accomplishments.”
In the Q&A below, Jess reflects on what inspired her to pursue nursing, the interests she’s developed, and the impact of her work with BH WELL.
Why did you choose to pursue a BSN?
Jess: I chose to pursue my BSN because I’ve always known I wanted to do something where I could truly be there for people during difficult moments. Being in the hospital environment showed me how much of a difference nurses make—not just clinically, but emotionally too. That really stuck with me and made me want to be that person for someone during their hardest and most vulnerable times.
What passions have you developed during your time at UK?
Jess: During my time at UK, I’ve developed a passion for caring for patients in high-acuity settings and advocating for them during their most vulnerable moments. Completing my synthesis in the Trauma ICU showed me how much I thrive in a fast-paced environment and solidified my goal of working in critical care. I’ve also developed a strong passion for research through my work with UK Department of Surgery, MG CAFÉ, and BH WELL, where I’ve seen how evidence-based practice can directly improve patient outcomes. In addition, I’ve found a passion for teaching and mentoring, both through mentoring other students and interning in the skills lab.
What projects have you worked on while with BH WELL?
Jess: While working with BH WELL, I’ve been involved in research focused on animal-assisted interventions. I contributed to literature reviews and data collection, and wrote evidence-based blogs exploring how these interventions can impact different patient populations as well as healthcare workers.
Read some of Jess's blogs linked below:
- February Walk with a Furry Friend
- Canine Fitness Month: Supporting the Health of Our Four-Legged Friends
- Coming Soon - The Paws That Refresh: The Power of Therapy Dogs on Campus and in Care
Which project was your favorite to work on?
Jess: My favorite project to work on was the trauma mobility project using therapy dogs. It was especially meaningful to me because I was able to see firsthand how something as simple as a therapy dog could motivate patients to get out of bed, reduce anxiety, and improve their overall recovery. Being part of a project that directly impacted patient care made it my most rewarding research experience during undergrad.
What has being part of the BH WELL team meant to you?
Jess: Being part of the BH WELL team has been really meaningful to me because it gave me the opportunity to mentor WLP students and help them grow. I also enjoyed writing evidence-based blogs, which helped me strengthen my ability to translate research into something practical and applicable. It was a great experience in both leadership and communication that I know will carry into my nursing career.
What’s next for you?
Jess: After graduation, I will be working as a Registered Nurse in the Medical ICU at UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital. I will also be starting the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Kentucky, specializing as an Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner. I’m excited to continue building my skills and grow in critical care as both a nurse and future provider.
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Please join BH WELL in congratulating Jess on this incredible achievement. We are thrilled to cheer her on while she pursues her DNP. Her dedication to patient-centered care, research, and mentorship reflects the very best of nursing, and there is no doubt she will continue to make a meaningful impact as she advances in her career.