30 seconds with an alum: The nurse crossing borders

As a UW Bothell alumna, Cece Venzon, Nursing ‘07, seeks to make a meaningful difference.  From caring for pilgrims in France to guiding youth as a mountaineer mentor, she has woven purpose into every aspect of her life as a nurse. Venzon’s compassion and commitment haven’t gone unnoticed, she was awarded the Martinique Grigg Leadership in Youth Education Award by The Mountaineers in 2023. 

Hometown: Seattle, WA

What was your first job?

I was a barista at Starbucks. I met the guy who played Josh (Bradley Whitford) in “The West Wing.” He gave me a $100 tip because it was Christmas!

What springs to mind when you hear the word “impact”?

Healing. There are lots of different threads of healing throughout my life, from my professional career in nursing to my non-professional mountaineering career. Healing has many dimensions. I’ve been lucky to have many opportunities in my life. I encourage people not to be afraid to explore other avenues for healing, whether it’s music, spirituality or something else. Open your heart to love and healing!

What is one of the ways you make an impact on the world?

Each year I go to Lourdes in France and assist with pilgrims there. I help with medical concerns and provide support within the sanctuary, as a member of the L’Association Médicale Internationale de Notre-Dame de Lourdes. This year I will become an official member of the Hospitalité Notre Dame de Lourdes, which was inspired by the Order of Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem. Their job during the Middle Ages was to look after the sick, the poor and pilgrims.

Who has had a big impact on you?

My nursing mentor, Sharon. I think of her professionalism, her competency and her ability to authentically show that you mattered to her.

What motivates you?

My perspective on the world is simple, I like to have fun — that’s important. But I also want the things I do to be impactful, not just for me but for other people. I have a group of kids who are leaving my youth program this year, and I hope they remember me as their mentor and as their coach. I hope that I help influence them to be good human beings — conscientious, responsible and kind.