Krista Kamstra-Cooper’s unwavering dedication and exemplary leadership have left an indelible mark on the Registered Nurses’ Foundation of Ontario and the nursing profession, making her an ideal candidate for the esteemed title of Honorary Life Member of RNFOO.

Krista joined RNFOO and the Board in 2017, demonstrating immediate commitment and passion. She served as President from 2019 to 2021, providing visionary leadership that strengthened the Foundation’s mission and broadened its impact. Following her Presidency, she continued her service as Past-President from 2021 to 2024, offering invaluable mentorship and continuity.

Krista’s contributions as Chair of the Fund Development, Marketing & Communications (FDM&C) Committee from 2018 to 2019 were instrumental in enhancing RNFOO’s visibility and expanding fundraising efforts. She continues to be an active member of the FDM&C Committee sharing her invaluable insight and guidance. Additionally, her unwavering dedication as a member of the RNFOO Gala Planning Committee from 2017 to 2024 ensured the Gala’s growth and success as a signature event.

Beyond her service to RNFOO, Krista exemplifies excellence in nursing education and research. Through her positions as Program Coordinator in the Full-time Bridging RPN to BScN program (2015) and nursing professor and Year 1 Program Coordinator at Centennial College in the Collaborative Nursing Degree Program, she has shaped the next generation of nurses with her mentorship and academic expertise. Her teaching contributions across the Collaborative BScN Program since 2010 reflect her dedication to student success and educational excellence. Prior to working in academia, Krista held various nursing roles at Holland Bloorview Hospital from 2009-2013.

Currently pursuing her PhD in Nursing Education at Walden University, Krista is an emerging scholar in nursing research, where she continues to demonstrate her strong commitment to advancing knowledge and improving nursing education.  Krista was co-investigator on a study exploring undergraduate nursing students’ sense of belonging as they transitioned from online to in-person learning, and has also made contributions to research in virtual gaming simulation and investigation of building research capacity among college nursing faculty. In addition to her contributions to RNFOO and academia, Krista is deeply engaged in professional nursing organizations. Her involvement on the Board of Sigma Theta Tau, the Nursing Honour Society, highlights her dedication to the nursing profession’s growth and excellence.

Krista embodies the spirit of RNFOO through her outstanding leadership, tireless advocacy, and enduring commitment to the nursing community. Krista’s contributions will undoubtedly continue to inspire and elevate the Foundation’s mission, as she holds the position of Honorary Life Member.