On March 5, 2025, the Registered Nurses Foundation of BC (RNFBC), hosted a Celebration Luncheon at the Arbutus Club in Vancouver. The event brought together donors, nursing professionals, educators, and supporters to celebrate the impact of education, philanthropy, and leadership in nursing.
This year, we proudly presented the Distinguished Service Award to three extraordinary individuals. This year’s honourees have made a remarkable and lasting impact on RNFBC, nursing and healthcare in British Columbia.
Don Ransom: a founding member of RNFBC, has been instrumental in shaping the foundation’s bursary program since its inception in 1979. From his early days at St. Paul’s Hospital to his work advocating for international nurses, Don’s legacy is one of leadership and unwavering commitment.
Kathy Murphy: a champion of nursing excellence, has advanced the profession through education, fundraising, and advocacy. From chairing RNFBC’s Capital Campaign to founding the Gordon Murphy Memorial Bursary, Kathy’s leadership has paved the way for future generations of nurses.
Heather Mass: a dedicated RNFBC board member and former president, has been an advocate for education and professional development. Coming from a proud lineage of nurses, Heather has played a vital role in expanding the foundation’s bursary programs and addressing the province’s growing nursing shortage.
Their stories moved and inspired attendees, reminding us all of the power of dedicated service and the importance of supporting those who care for our communities.
A Celebration of Impact
Thanks to our generous supporters, RNFBC awarded 886 bursaries totaling $901,000 in 2024 alone. Each of these awards represents a step forward for a nurse or nursing student—and a step toward a stronger healthcare system for all British Columbians.
A special thanks to Cathy Deurksen, who shared her experience as a bursary recipient and introduced heartfelt video messages from current bursary recipients whose stories highlight the profound impact of RNFBC’s work.
Thank You
We are deeply grateful to the sponsors who helped make this event possible: Stenberg College, Mohtadi Financial Advisory Group, Advica Health, and the University of Northern British Columbia. We also extend our thanks to the Ministry of Health for their transformational $5M grant, which will help expand RNFBC’s reach in the years to come.
To our donors, volunteers, and advocates – thank you. Your support continues to change lives, remove barriers, and empower the next generation of nurses.
As we reflect on this meaningful afternoon, we are reminded that the journey to a resilient, inclusive, and well-supported healthcare system starts with education. RNFBC is proud to continue this work, and we invite you to join us in shaping a brighter future for nursing in BC.
