Karen Riley

Alumni Panelist: Lives Well Lived

Friday, Nov. 26, 2021 | 1 to 3:30pm
The Alex & Jo Campbell Centre for Health and Wellness
Interurban Campus, Camosun College

Karen Riley is from Statlimx Territory, born in Lillooet and raised in Kamloops, B.C. 

Karen is an alum of Camosun’s Bachelor of Nursing program. She enrolled in the program in 2006 and went on to complete her four-year Bachelor of Nursing degree in 2010 at the University of Victoria.

“My goal to become a nurse was a childhood dream,” says Karen. “It was by far my best and most challenging accomplishment. I have always been very passionate about caring for others. Everything I have learned throughout my studies in the Nursing program at Camosun has helped me to become the nurse I am today.”

 Karen chose to specialize in Oncology early in her career. 

“I have always had an interest in caring for cancer patients, I believe they need someone willing to help them fight the toughest battle of their lives,” she says. “It is very important to me to give the level of care that I would expect to be given to myself or my family. I believe in showing love, compassion and whole-hearted caring in my life and in my career as a nurse.”

For those students who want to further their education, Karen’s advice is to “push forward, push past your fears and set goals. When you accomplish those goals, make new ones. There will always be people out there who can help you and support you through your education.”

Karen feels education plays a vital role in moving forward with truth and reconciliation.

“I’m the first generation of my family who has not gone through any type of residential school,” she explains. “And, I decided to become a nurse, to be the best that I could be, so that my family would be proud and so that I could care for others. Our generation will pave the roads for future leaders.”

Camosun students, employees and the community can share in the learning experience either in person or by watching it live-streamed on Camosun’s YouTube channel.

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