La Roche student honored by national nurse anesthetist organization

A La Roche University student studying to become a nurse anesthetist has been honored by a national organization.

Ryan Wade, a​ student at La Roche University and the Allegheny School of Anesthesia, is the recipient of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists’ annual Student Excellence Award.

The award recognizes students “in good academic standing who demonstrate outstanding leadership and professionalism, participates in activities that help foster a positive public image of nursing and engages in activities that support health care,” according to the Park Ridge, Ill., professional association, which represents nearly 54,000 certified registered nurse anesthetists and students nationwide.

“I am very grateful to my director for nominating me and for selecting me for this program,” said Wade, who resides in Dallas, Texas. “Without those decisions, I would not be here today. I also am grateful for everyone along the way who has motivated me to strive for excellence.

“Nurse anesthesia combines my passion for helping people with a love of science and critical thinking. Becoming a nurse was a continuation of my calling to serve others,” Wade said.

In addition to his strong academic record, Wade has served on the government relations committee for the Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists, where he was an active member for two terms.

In that role, he conferred with state lawmakers such as former House Speaker Mike Turzai, R-Bradford Woods, as well as the state House Veterans Affairs & Emergency Preparedness Committee and Vice President Mike Pence.

“I envision Ryan will continue in his efforts to privately and publicly represent our profession as a knowledgeable, competent and pre-eminently invested CRNA after graduation,” said Deborah Davison, program director for the Allegheny School of Anesthesia.

“I am very proud of his accomplishments and feel confident that he is deserving of this award as recognition for his hard work,” Davison said.

La Roche’s nurse anesthesia program, which awards a master’s degree in health science, is offered in partnership with the Allegheny School of Anesthesia.

Students study core science courses at La Roche and do their clinically-based classes, student presentations and rotations through the Allegheny School of Anesthesia.

Wade also has served as a spokesman for the Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists on a recent television news broadcast during which he demonstrated the proper use of personal protective equipment to slow the spread of coronavirus.

“Ryan is a leader among his peers and consistently has exceeded our expectations these past two years,” said Jessica Poole, director of state government affairs for the Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists. “His drive and enthusiasm are contagious, and his wisdom and insight exceed well beyond his level of training. He represents our profession with tact and professionalism.”

Wade accepted the award during the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists’ annual congress this month, which was conducted virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.