PONL is pleased to offer a scholarship for attendance at the 2025 annual conference, honoring the memory of Michelle DeFabio, DNP, RN, 2023 PONL Program and Education Chair. The scholarship awards one registration ($475 value) for attendance at the 2025 Annual PONL Conference scheduled for October 23-24, 2025, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. All are welcome to apply. In the spirit of Michelle and to highlight her values, attributes, and nursing experience, the scholarship will give preference to applications that demonstrate commitment to excellence and mentoring others.

Michelle will always be remembered as a cherished member of the Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders, where she served with unwavering dedication as the Program & Education Chair. Her presence was truly transformative, as she infused the organization with her boundless energy, vibrant spirit, and engaging personality that made her a beloved figure among her colleagues. Michelle's passion for nursing leadership, education, and professional development and her commitment to excellence have left an indelible mark on our community. Though she may be gone, her legacy as a dynamic and inspiring leader lives on in the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

More about Michelle:
Michelle Elizabeth (Fullerton) DeFabio, born June 11, 1971, in York, Pennsylvania, earned her Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice Degrees from York College of Pennsylvania and last held the position of Director of Nursing for Penn Medicine, Nursing Professional Development and Clinical Excellence. She also served as an Adjunct Nursing Faculty Member at York College and Harrisburg Area Community College. She was a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, Eta Eta Chapter Sigma Theta Tau International, Extracorporeal Life Support Organization, National Association of Clinical Nurse Specialists, Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders, Sigma Theta Tau International, and Susquehanna Valley Chapter of American Association of Critical Care Nurses. She held appointments to the Education Committee for the Pennsylvania Organization of Nurse Leaders, the Leadership Succession Committee of Eta Eta Chapter Sigma Theta Tau International, and the President of Susquehanna Valley Affiliate National Association Clinical Nurse Specialists. She accomplished all these things while raising two children as a single mother.