Hamilton Community Schools nurse Jen Yoder, a 1998 Hamilton High School graduate, has been named the 2025 School Nurse of the Year in the State of Michigan. Yoder, who has served the district with dedication and compassion, received the prestigious honor in recognition of her outstanding commitment to student health and well-being.
Yoder was caught off guard when she received the news.
"I received a phone call and was told, 'Congratulations, you were nominated and selected as School Nurse of the Year.' That was very exciting and surprising. I maybe cried a little bit on the phone when she told me, but very excited as well," she shared. "It's just an honor to have been nominated, and then to win is exceptional."
For Yoder, being recognized for her work is both humbling and gratifying.
"It was very much an honor to think that people trust and appreciate me enough to think I'm worthy of that nomination," she said. "I'm here doing my job, and not anything special—I'm just doing what I love and what I feel called to do. The fact that others see this as above and beyond is amazing, and I'm beyond grateful that the community has come around me."
As the school nurse for Hamilton Community Schools, Yoder has played a vital role in ensuring students receive the care and support they need, whether it’s handling medical concerns, offering guidance, or simply being a comforting presence. Her dedication has clearly made an impact on the students, staff, and families within the district.
