MN Lynx Nurses Night Out 2025: Nurses Honored on the Court

Nancy Wylie

Nurse Wylie's nomination read as follows: Nancy Wylie, RN, has been nursing for 40 years and has been through thick and thin. She is getting ready to retire on her birthday in May 2026. 

At the U, she worked tirelessly through the COVID crisis, putting her own life at risk while taking care of others. It was such a difficult time, being understaffed and under duress. So many nurses were quitting. She stuck it out and even agreed to take on the hardship shift of working overnights because they needed a strong senior-level leader to run the Operating Room desk. 

She is a hard worker, humble & beloved by all of her co-workers. On top of all that, she is a rabid fan who LOVES the Lynx. 💚💙 I can’t think of a more deserving person to be honored. Thank you for this opportunity! 

Kara Baker

Nurse Baker's nomination read as follows: From the moment my son, Clifford, was born at 24 weeks, weighing just over a pound, he faced an uphill battle for survival. Throughout his 10-month stay in the NICU, Kara was by our side, providing not only expert clinical care but also unwavering emotional support. She exemplifies every quality of an outstanding nurse: skillful, compassionate, and deeply invested in her patients and their families.

Kara was more than just a nurse; she was Clifford's advocate, protector, and cheerleader. She anticipated his needs, adjusted his care to his ever-changing medical challenges, and celebrated even the smallest victories with us. When Clifford faced setbacks, she was there, reassuring us with her expertise and steady presence. She listened to our fears, answered our endless questions with patience, and never made us feel like just another family in the NICU. She truly became part of our family.

Kara was there through Clifford's most life-threatening moments; the times when we weren't sure if he would make it through. She stood by him through countless infections, holding his tiny hand through every setback. She was there the day he needed emergency surgery in a makeshift OR right in the NICU, bringing a sense of calm and control to a terrifying moment. She cared for him before and after his tracheostomy and G-tube placement, ensuring he was as comfortable as possible and making sure we, as his parents, felt empowered and informed about his care. She fought for him through every complication and celebrated every milestone, no matter how small.

There were moments of pure exhaustion and fear, but Kara's empathy never wavered. She held my hand during the hardest days and made sure I felt seen, not just as Clifford's mom, but as a grieving mother still carrying the loss of my daughter, Nellie. She understood that my heart was torn between two worlds and met me with kindness that went beyond her job description.

Kara also formed a special bond with Clifford. Her care went beyond medical procedures; she talked to him, played music, and made sure he felt love in a place that often felt sterile and overwhelming. She advocated fiercely for him, ensuring he had the best possible care and a voice in every medical decision. When we finally took him home after 10 long months, it was bittersweet to leave behind the NICU family we had built. But thanks to Kara, we left feeling confident and prepared.

Kara is not just an exceptional nurse; she is a lifesaver in every sense of the word. Our family will forever be grateful for the love, care, and dedication she gave to Clifford and to us.

Katelyn Pagel

Nurse Pagel's nomination read as follows: Katelyn embodies what it means to be a compassionate, dedicated, and innovative caregiver. She consistently goes above and beyond for her patients, treating every individual with dignity and kindness, no matter how busy or demanding her day may be.

What sets Katelyn apart is her unwavering commitment to patient care. Even in the most hectic moments, she never rushes—she takes the time to listen, to comfort, and to advocate for her patients’ needs. Her calm presence is often the reassurance her patients and their families need, and her thoughtful approach ensures that everyone feels heard and valued.

Whether it’s finding new ways to improve patient care or simply offering a warm hand to hold, Katelyn leads with heart. She’s not just a nurse—she’s a lifeline, a listener, and a true example of excellence in nursing.