One Year On: Jess and Danna-Lee on the Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship

One year after receiving the Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship, Churches of Christ team members Jess Marshall and Danna-Lee Fallon are progressing towards their career goals while continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they support. 

As two of five scholarship recipients awarded funding last year, both women say the experience has boosted their confidence, eased financial pressures and helped turn their aspirations into reality. 

Growing confidence through education

For Jess, who is studying to transition from an Enrolled Nurse to a Registered Nurse, receiving the scholarship was both unexpected and empowering.

"I didn't think I would be one of the recipients and was lost for words when I received the news," Jess said. "Being a recipient gave me confidence that others believed in my potential and the push I needed to keep going." 

Since receiving the scholarship, Jess has continued to build her clinical skills, confidence and critical thinking through her studies and workplace experience. While balancing work, family and university commitments has not always been easy, she says the journey has been incredibly rewarding. 

The financial support provided through the scholarship has also made a significant difference.

"The scholarship has significantly reduced some of the financial pressures that come with study," she said. "This support has allowed me to focus a lot more on my studies and has made it easier to balance work, family and university." 

Through her studies, Jess has gained a deeper appreciation that nursing extends beyond clinical skills.

"I have learnt that nursing isn't just about clinical skills but also about respecting each person's individual needs. It's about teamwork, reflection and lifelong learning," she said. 

Looking ahead, Jess hopes to use her Registered Nurse qualification to provide compassionate, person-centred care, advocate for patients and support positive health outcomes for individuals and families. 

Creating pathways for the future

For Danna-Lee, the scholarship has played an important role in supporting her Bachelor of Social Work studies at Central Queensland University. The funding covered the cost of two university units, helping ease the financial burden of study while balancing family and work responsibilities. 

"Receiving the Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship meant a great deal to me both personally and professionally," Danna-Lee said. "It relieved some of the financial pressure associated with studying and allowed me to focus more on my education and career goals." 

One of the most valuable lessons she has gained through her studies has been the importance of active listening and the role it plays in building trust and achieving better outcomes for the people she supports. 

The scholarship has also helped Danna-Lee move closer to her goal of becoming a Support Practitioner. She is currently acting in a Support Practitioner position while completing her studies, gaining valuable hands-on experience that will strengthen her future career prospects. 

Completing her degree will place her in a strong position to secure a permanent Support Practitioner role in the future, providing greater stability for her family while enabling her to continue supporting foster carers, children and young people. 

Investing in people and communities

The stories of Jess and Danna-Lee demonstrate the lasting impact of the Churches of Christ Beryl Wiltshire Scholarship. Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship provides encouragement, confidence and practical support for team members pursuing professional development. 

Both recipients expressed gratitude to the donors whose generosity makes the scholarship possible, recognising the benefits extend well beyond individual career growth. Whether through compassionate nursing care or supporting children and families, their continued education will ultimately strengthen the communities they serve. 

For colleagues considering further study, both women have a simple message – apply today! The support provided through the scholarship can help reduce financial pressures, create new opportunities and provide the confidence needed to take the next step in your career.