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Key Takeaways:
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Mimi Benjelloun has been recognized with the Future Nurse Leaders Award by the Virginia Nurses Association and Virginia Nurses Foundation.
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Benjelloun's leadership and service represent the height of nursing ethics and values.
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Benjelloun will begin her position as a Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum Nurse at UVA Community Health Culpeper Hospital following her spring 2026 graduation.
The Virginia Nurses Association and Virginia Nurses Foundation have bestowed Sarah “Mimi” Benjelloun with the Future Nurse Leaders Award, which recognizes a nursing student whose actions represent the pinnacle of nursing ethics and values. The Future Nurse Leader participates in community service, promotes engagement with nursing organizations, creates opportunities for connection, mentors fellow students, and creates an overall positive environment for their peers.
“Mimi has contributed to the overall excellence and positive culture of the School of Nursing. She has demonstrated sustained leadership through service, mentorship, and advocacy within both academic and clinical settings. Her actions reflect not only excellence in leadership, but also integrity, empathy, and a commitment to making a positive impact on others and the broader community,” said Associate Professor of Nursing Yanika Kowitlawakul, who has taught Benjelloun since fall 2024 and nominated her for the award.
Benjelloun, a graduating senior in George Mason University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program and part of the Honors College, has embodied what it means to be a nurse leader. As the George Mason University Student Nurses Association President, Bejelloun has led several meaningful community service initiatives for underserved populations, including a cancer awareness walk, a food drive, and a baby‑clothes drive. She also serves as the BSN student representative on the George Mason Student Matters Committee, advocating for her fellow students and fostering faculty-student relationships. Bejelloun has facilitated professional development for nursing students across Virginia through organizing and hosting the 2025 Virginia Nursing Student Association Summit in collaboration with major health systems.
On why she chose George Mason School of Nursing Benjelloun says, “After talking to nurses and doctors, I know this was the best place for me to go. There are so many amazing opportunities. Even though it can be overwhelming, I’ve found a balance that has made nursing school very enjoyable.” Hear from Benjelloun in this video.
Benjelloun will graduate in spring 2026 and is the CPH student degree celebration speaker. She has accepted a position as a Labor, Delivery, Recovery, and Postpartum Nurse at UVA Community Health Culpeper Hospital.
On behalf of the College of Public Health, congratulations, Mimi Benjelloun!