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Kira Feeser is the No. 1 cadet to commission into the Army Nurse Corps from the nation's senior and junior military colleges for 2025-26. But the University of North Georgia (¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ) senior's impact far exceeds that honor as she seeks to help those coming behind her.

Often being the only cadet in her nursing classes felt isolating at times for Feeser, and she's hoping to change that for other future Army nurses coming from ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ.

"With help from my peers and the staff at the Military Leadership Center, we've started developing a mentorship program specifically for pre-nursing and nursing cadets," Feeser, a native of East Berlin, Pennsylvania, said. "We plan to hold regular meetings where junior and senior nursing cadets can help guide newer students through things like the HESI admissions exam, difficult classes and course scheduling — or just be someone to talk to who understands what they're going through."

Feeser has also created a document with helpful tips for pre-nursing students, those who are in their first two years at ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ before being accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Lt. Col. Tim Palmer, executive officer and director of instruction in ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ's Military Science Department, encouraged her to make the one-pager after seeing how well she balanced so many responsibilities.

"Taking the lead on this project has reminded me that leadership isn't just about holding a title — it's about taking initiative, creating connections and helping others succeed. None of this would be possible without the support of the Military Leadership Center, Lieutenant Colonel Palmer in particular, and my classmates who share the same passion for helping future nursing cadets thrive here at ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ," Feeser said. "Together, we're creating a community that supports one another and prepares us all to succeed within the Army Nurse Corps."

Palmer, a 2001 graduate, learned quickly about Feeser's abilities and drive when he returned this summer to serve in the Military Science Department. Feeser is the medic for the Leadership Development Program, which prepares juniors for Advanced Camp, a critical part of their path to commissioning.

"Kira is a fantastic young leader," Palmer said. "She takes on more, and she doesn't just survive. She thrives."

Feeser points to a conversation with Cynthia Wagner, ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ lecturer of nursing, as pivotal in her journey. After a poor grade on a test early in Wagner's class, the faculty member reassured Feeser she could eventually retake the course if necessary.  

Feeser said that wasn't an option because she needed to succeed in the class so she could attend the prestigious Nurse Summer Training Program (NSTP) in 2025. Not only did Feeser put in the work, she excelled in the class, and then took advantage of the opportunities afforded by NSTP at Brooke Army Medical Center on Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Her determination and quiet strength while juggling a busy schedule have impressed Wagner.

"She's going to be a wonderful nurse and a great leader," Wagner said.

As part of America's Corps, which allows Feeser to experience both military and civilian life while she's a cadet at ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ, she is in the Delta Zeta sorority and Miracle ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ, a student group that raises money for Children's Miracle Network.

"The opportunities that ¹ú²ú×ÔÅÄ has afforded me have been influential in shaping me into a well-rounded student and a future Army officer," Feeser said. "I am grateful for the support of my family and the lifelong friends I have met during my time in college."