The IU Indianapolis Top 100 list celebrates students who are making a lasting impact on campus through leadership, service, and academic excellence. Get to know IU School of Nursing honoree—Haley Grace Hedgecock, Class of 2026 BSN student—as she shares her story and what this honor represents in her journey.
What does being named a Top 100 student mean to you?
Hedgecock: Receiving the Top 100 distinction again is an honor that feels deeply meaningful to me. It validates the dedication I have put into both my academic work and community involvement. Being included among such an inspiring group of future professionals motivates me to continue striving for excellence and to make an impact in my field.
How have your extracurricular activities or leadership roles shaped your experience as a student at IU School of Nursing?
My commitment to community service has shaped both my personal and professional growth throughout nursing school. Volunteering with organizations that serve underserved populations throughout Indianapolis, such as Wheeler Mission, the Julian Center, and the Salvation Army, has strengthened my values as an advocate for others and as someone who provides support to the vulnerable. These experiences have emphasized the importance of compassion and action, and working with a variety of populations has increased my ability to provide culturally competent care.
Who has had the greatest influence on your nursing journey and why?
Instructors such as Molly Auletta, Natalie Slagle, Savannah Langbehn, and Marian Gilhooly have been major influences. They helped shape my nursing journey by creating learning environments that encouraged curiosity and saw mistakes not as failures but as learning opportunities. Their examples have shaped my clinical reasoning, confidence, and professional identity. Additionally, my incredible Capstone preceptor, Rachai Vogelgesang, provided hands-on guidance that deepened my clinical knowledge and encouraged immense growth. Her mentorship has inspired me to embrace challenges and approach nursing with both competence and compassion.
What are your goals after graduation and how do hope to make a difference as a nurse?
After graduation and licensure, I plan to begin my nursing career in the Medical ICU at IU University Hospital. During my critical care clinicals, I discovered a deep appreciation for the intellectually demanding environment and diversity of patient conditions. Often, these patients are unable to speak for themselves, and nurses serve as their advocates and voices, which is a role I hold in high esteem. In addition, I aim to pursue my critical care certification and eventually higher education. I also plan to obtain my SANE certification to provide sensitive, trauma-informed care to victims during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Is there anything else about your experience at IU School of Nursing you’d like to add?
The IU School of Nursing has given me not only an outstanding education but also meaningful connections. I am grateful to have formed lifelong friendships with peers who have supported and inspired me throughout this journey. I also want to express my gratitude to my parents for their support and guidance throughout the years. Their love and belief have given me the confidence to face all challenges head on.
