Helene Tjoumakaris’s journey into nursing began during a life-changing experience in high school. When her best friend was diagnosed with kidney failure, Helene witnessed firsthand the profound role nurses played—not just in medical care, but in offering emotional support and strength. That experience ignited a passion to become the kind of nurse who not only heals, but also uplifts.

The nursing major from Egg Harbor, New Jersey, and this year’s student commencement speaker for the URI College of Nursing, immersed herself fully in campus life, from serving on the Executive Council of Zeta Tau Alpha to guiding new students as a Head Panhellenic Recruitment Counselor. Helene also worked as an Undergraduate Research Fellow, conducting research in palliative and hospice care with Dr. Susan DeSanto-Madeya, a mentor and a major influence in her journey. Her proudest moment at URI was raising funds for Habitat for Humanity during the Mr. and Mrs. Greek Week Pageant, where she placed second.

Reflecting on milestones like her White Coat Ceremony and the resilience she developed during clinical rotations, Helene credits URI with helping her find her voice and grow into a confident, compassionate leader. As she steps into the ICU nursing field, Helene is carrying forward the strength, friendships, and purpose she found during her time at URI—ready to make a difference in every life she touches.