The lasting impact of memorial giving

July 2, 2026

When alumna and BScN student Rebecca Byers (class of 2017) passed away in March, her family, friends, classmates, faculty and nursing colleagues felt the loss of an extraordinary individual whose compassion and commitment to caring for others left a lasting impression.

A 2017 Practical Nursing graduate and student in Georgian’s Nursing RPN to BScN Advanced Standing Pathway at the Owen Sound Campus, Rebecca was known for her compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment to nursing. Whether in the classroom, during clinical placements or in professional practice, she left a meaningful impression on those around her.

“Rebecca was clearly well loved and respected by her peers. As a natural leader both in the classroom and in the workplace, she was a reliable, approachable and kind person who had a lasting impact on people during her short stay on this earth,” said Rebecca Brookham, PhD, RKin, CIC, a faculty member in the Health, Wellness and Sciences Department.

Rebecca’s influence extended far beyond the classroom. Colleagues remember her as an exceptional nurse, leader and advocate for high-quality patient care. She earned the respect of experienced nursing professionals and became known for her dedication to patients, families and fellow nurses.

“When I met Rebecca, I had been a nurse since she was in diapers. She was new to nursing, in a new clinical practice lead role and new to leadership. She had nursing knowledge, skills and leadership far beyond what her years should have allowed. She was an inspiration and a great example for nurses,” said David Stoakley, a nursing colleague and friend.

Following her passing, colleagues, classmates and friends wanted to honour Rebecca’s memory. What began as a shared sense of loss quickly evolved into a collective desire to ensure her passion for nursing and efforts to set the highest standards in palliative care would live on. Driven by the shared efforts of Rebecca’s colleagues, including Beth Byrnes, David Stoakley (class of 2001 and 2003), Carrie Wolfe (class of 2006) and Amanda Growden, a fundraising campaign was launched to establish the Rebecca Byers Memorial Award Fund at Georgian.

The award will support students enrolled in Georgian’s Honours Bachelor of Science – Nursing program who demonstrate financial need and a passion for palliative care.

Rebecca was especially passionate about palliative and end-of-life care, where she had a remarkable impact on patients, families and colleagues. Her dedication to helping others navigate some of life’s most difficult moments continues to inspire those who knew her and is reflected in the award’s focus on supporting future nurses who share that passion.

“She touched many people in our community, supporting them through health and healing or end-of-life care. She helped countless souls live and die with comfort and dignity,” said Stoakley.

Today, Rebecca’s legacy extends beyond the many lives she touched personally. Through the Rebecca Byers Memorial Award Fund, future Georgian nursing students will be supported as they pursue the same compassion, excellence and dedication to comfort, dignity and care in palliative settings that defined Rebecca’s life and career.

“We must carry on the standards she set to provide our community with the highest quality care, especially around palliative and end-of-life care. I will never forget her,” Stoakley added.

The fund stands as a testament to the generosity and dedication of colleagues, friends, classmates and community members who came together to honour her memory and ensure her influence endures for generations of nurses to come.

Those who wish to honour Rebecca’s legacy and support the next generation of compassionate nurses are invited to make a gift to the Rebecca Byers Memorial Award Fund.

To learn more about establishing a memorial award or fund in honour of a loved one, please contact Georgian’s Advancement team.