AMHERST, N.Y. -- Daemen College President Gary A. Olson conferred a bachelor’s degree in nursing to student Paula Williams, who is seriously ill with breast cancer, at a private on-campus ceremony held Dec. 16 in the Wick Campus Center Alumni Lounge. She completed the academic requirements in the fall semester to receive her nursing degree, which was presented in advance of the college’s annual commencement ceremony in May.

“We are all very proud of Paula for persevering through her illness to receive her degree,” said Olson. “She is courageous, tenacious, and an inspiration to everyone at Daemen.”

A graduate of the former Buffalo General Hospital School of Nursing, Williams held various staff and leadership positions at Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. In recognition of her professional excellence, she was awarded a scholarship from the Kaleida Health Foundation.

In 2007, Williams entered the RN to BS program at Daemen, while continuing to work full-time and is currently employed at the Center for Ambulatory Surgery.

“Throughout her career, Paula has inspired countless nursing colleagues with her commitment to excellence in patient care and to the nursing profession,” said Dr. Mary Lou Rusin, chair and professor of nursing, who attended the ceremony. “Her courage and strength of spirit is remarkable, and it is an honor to recognize her educational achievement.”

Others in attendance at the special degree presentation were Dr. Michael Brogan, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college, Williams’ mother, sister and friends, and Daemen nursing faculty.

Williams resides in Hamburg.