Excellence in Action: Evan Henson (’24) Stands Out in Emergency Nursing
January 12, 2025 | 2 min read
Florida College’s Nursing Program is built on a foundation of excellence, and alum Evan Henson embodies that standard in every step of his professional journey. Graduating in 2024 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Henson confidently stepped into one of the most demanding and dynamic fields in healthcare: emergency nursing. Today, he serves as a Registered Nurse in the University Emergency Department with HCA Healthcare, where he thrives in the fast-paced environment that first drew him to the specialty. For Henson, the emergency department is more than a workplace, it’s a place where he can be present for patients on what may be the hardest day of their lives. Every shift brings something new, and he embraces the challenge of thinking critically, acting quickly, and making decisions that truly make a difference.
Henson’s career is still unfolding, and his ambitions reflect both his passion for emergency medicine and his desire to grow as a leader. He is currently preparing to begin his Master of Science in Nursing this coming January, with a specialty in Leadership, as he works toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner in Emergency Medicine. This next step represents more than academic advancement, it is a commitment to lifelong learning, professional growth, and expanding the impact he can have in patient care.
When reflecting on the foundation that launched his career, Henson points to the strength of the Florida College Nursing Program. He shares that when he first stepped onto the hospital floor as an RN, he felt truly ready to take on the responsibilities ahead of him.
“When I stepped onto the floor for the first time, I felt ready to take on the responsibilities of a nurse,” Henson says.
The transition from student to nurse is often challenging, especially in a specialized and fast-moving environment like the emergency department, but Henson credits FC for equipping him with the critical thinking and confidence essential for success. The program didn’t just teach him what to do; it taught him how to think.
Among his most meaningful learning experiences were the simulation labs and clinical rotations. The SIM labs, as he described, provided a realistic but safe setting where he could practice procedures, make mistakes and learn without risk to real patients. Whether it was administering medications, performing assessments, or responding to unexpected complications, every simulated scenario helped sharpen his skills. His clinical experiences were equally impactful, giving him the chance to observe seasoned nurses, understand their reasoning, and absorb best practices that he still uses today.
Looking back, Henson is deeply grateful for the preparation and inspiration Florida College provided. His time in the program not only made him a confident and capable nurse, but also ignited a passion for continuous learning. Today, as he continues to grow in both his education and career, Henson represents the dedication, skill, and service-minded spirit that define Florida College nursing graduates.
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