Javier Palmer Named 2026–2027 LASCO NAJ Nursing Student of the Year!
Excellence is cultivated, not stumbled upon, and that truth was affirmed once more when Javier Palmer, a third-year nursing student, was crowned the 2026–2027 LASCO Chin Foundation and Nurses Association of Jamaica (NAJ) Nursing Student of the Year. The College’s pride was doubled by Aroha Lunch, also a third-year nursing student, who claimed first runner-up.
Javier’s win came amongst a field of 11 finalists from across Jamaica, in a year that made history with four male nursing students reaching the final stage for the first time.
In his acceptance speech, he described the win as an affirmation of resilience, discipline and faith. He intends to use the platform to encourage more young men into nursing and to raise visibility around men’s health, beginning with a Men’s Health and Nursing Expo he plans to launch (“Nursing Student of the Year,” 2026).
‘This recognition empowers me to lead with purpose beyond this stage,’ Javier reflected, thanking the teachers, family and classmates who walked the journey with him (“Nursing Student of the Year,” 2026).
To Javier and to Aroha: your achievements reflect the standard this College strives to uphold. We stand proud, and we stand with you.
Reference
Nursing Student of the Year Javier Palmer champions greater male representation in field. (2026, August 2). Jamaica Observer. https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/2026/08/02/nursing-student-year-javier-palmer-champions-greater-male-representation-field/
