Up Close
By Jessica Turnitiza 2020-2021 Imprint Up Close Reporter
The role of the nurse has evolved since the dawn of Nightingale , Wald , and Dix . Technology improvements surpass the early days , specialty fields have emerged , and educational training has diversified . One thing that will never be forgotten , above all , are the basics : compassionate care , food , shelter , and safety . Sarah Finocchiaro , a Villanova BSN Express student , exemplifies all that is traditional , yet innovative in the world of nursing . She is a mom of three , a wife , a second-degree student , president of the Student Nurses ’ Association of Pennsylvania ( SNAP ), and a pharmacy technician with over 20 years of experience . Over years of experience in many realms and settings , one thing remains the same for Sarah : her voice for equitable access to healthcare services to all . Sarah is indeed the voice for change today , and the improvements of care for tomorrow .
Sarah Finocchiaro undoubtedly serves as a leader for both her community and state , where she can be found advocating for some of our most vulnerable populations
Finocchiaro such as communities of color , impoverished women , and our minority groups . Sarah and her volunteer network on campus , Team Latina , prioritize the simplest and commonly overlooked needs .
“ We are a group of students , led by Dr . Linda Maldonado , who volunteers at the Thea Bowman shelter in Kensington . The shelter offers day services for the women of Kensington , a place of peace , safety , and no judgement ,” Sarah explains . have such a provide impact on others . “ We offer meals , laundry facilities and access to resources they may need .” Though this is the care we typically prioritize daily for ourselves , Sarah reminds us to be the voice for others . “ We listen , we care , we make them seen ,” she shares .
Along with her involvement in Team Latina , Sarah represents the Greater Philadelphia Human Rights Community as a member of the steering committee . In addition , Sarah continues her advocacy and outreach efforts on other varying platforms . She serves as the greater Philadelphia regional coordinator for SNAP , while leading her region as the chairperson of the membership committee .
“ This has shown me how much work we still need to do ; these women are forgotten about by most but have so much potential to contribute to society ,” Sarah explains . “ I hope our work is starting to help make the changes needed to improve .”
Upon graduation this May , our accelerated achiever has determined the fight will not cease , as she will continue to contribute to the field of women ’ s health . Sarah yearns to begin her career as a bedside nurse in the city , the environment which she credits for her long-time passion .
“ My ah-ha moment came during my first clinical rotation . I was on a postpartum floor and it just felt so right , like I was meant to be there .” After gaining experience on the floor , Sarah aims to be back at the place where it all started : postpartum or labor and delivery .
Sarah ’ s courageous spirit and steward soul have
Oftentimes it is the simplest forms of care that
23