Caption: Sturdy Health Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Lisa Salameh with 2026 Sturdy Health Nursing Scholarship Award recipient Adeline Takantjas. (Photos by Nicki Pardo)
The Sturdy Health Foundation named Wheaton College sophomore Adeline Takantjas the recipient of its 2026 Sturdy Health Nursing Scholarship. The award was announced as part of Wheaton’s White Coat Ceremony, which recognizes nursing students as they prepare to enter clinical practice.
Takantjas was recognized for her academic excellence, leadership and service to the Wheaton community. She is involved with Wheaton Athletic Mentors, Best Buds and the Outdoors Club and is a member of the college’s track and field team. She also volunteers with local elementary and middle schools.
“Adeline has demonstrated the intellectual curiosity, compassion and dedication that will serve her well as a nurse,” said Lisa Salameh, Chief Nursing Officer at Sturdy Health. “The white coat represents the trust patients place in their caregivers and a commitment to care for them with integrity and excellence. We are proud to support Adeline as she takes this next step toward a career in nursing.”
Takantjas plans to become a pediatric nurse and eventually pursue further education to become a nurse practitioner. Faculty members have praised her academic strength, willingness to support classmates and commitment to making a positive difference.
“Adeline has an exceptional combination of leadership, dedication and academic excellence,” Salameh said during the ceremony. “She approaches each challenge with determination and curiosity, qualities that will serve her well in her future nursing career.”
Established in 2023, the Sturdy Health Nursing Scholarship is awarded annually to a Wheaton College sophomore nursing student who demonstrates high academic achievement and a strong commitment to the profession. In addition to financial support, the scholarship also includes an offer of paid summer employment, internship support, and full-time employment after graduation.
The scholarship reflects Sturdy Health’s investment in the next generation of nurses and its partnership with Wheaton College.