Kelly LeClair

Kelly LeClair, a Professional Practice Clinical Educator at Trillium Health Partners, exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional mentor through her dedication to supporting nurses as they transition into independent practice. As part of the Transition to Independent Practice Support (TIPS) program, Kelly has helped new graduate nurses build confidence, strengthen their clinical judgment, and navigate the challenges of the early stages of their nursing careers.

Kelly’s nominators described her as a mentor who creates psychologically safe learning environments where nurses feel comfortable asking questions, engaging in critical thinking, and reflecting on their practice. Her approachable and supportive nature encourages nurses to recognize their own strengths, develop confidence in their clinical reasoning, and continue growing professionally.

Through her consistent encouragement and commitment to lifelong learning, Kelly has made a meaningful impact on the nurses she mentors and on the nursing profession as a whole.

In her personal reflection on mentorship, Kelly says:

“Mentorship, to me, is one of the most meaningful responsibilities within nursing practice. It is not only about teaching clinical skills, but about creating a space where nurses feel safe to think critically, ask questions, make mistakes, and grow in confidence. In my role as a Professional Practice Clinical Educator supporting the Transition to Independent Practice Support (TIPS) program at Trillium Health Partners, I have had the privilege of working alongside new graduate nurses as they navigate one of the most challenging and formative stages of their careers.

I believe effective mentorship is rooted in psychological safety, approachability, and intentional reflection. When nurses feel supported rather than judged, they are more willing to engage in critical thinking and develop the clinical judgment required for safe, independent practice. Some of the most rewarding moments in my career come from watching a nurse move from uncertainty to confidence and eventually begin to trust their own clinical reasoning.

I am honoured to receive this recognition for the Legacy Award from RNFOO. It reinforces the importance of investing in mentorship and supporting the next generation of nurses, who will continue to shape and strengthen the profession.”

Monakshi Sawhney

Monakshi Sawhney, a Professor at Queen’s University and Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management, has demonstrated an enduring commitment to mentorship across academic, clinical, and research settings. Her nominators described her as an approachable and dedicated mentor who is genuinely invested in the personal and professional growth of her students and colleagues.

Monakshi creates welcoming and psychologically safe spaces where learners feel supported to ask questions, think critically, and develop confidence in their abilities. Through reflective questioning and thoughtful guidance, she helps nurses navigate complex clinical and professional challenges while encouraging them to recognize their strengths and potential.

Her commitment to equity, lifelong learning, advocacy, and anti-oppressive practice further strengthens the inclusive environments she creates for those she mentors. Through her generosity, encouragement, and dedication to supporting others, Monakshi has made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the nursing profession.

In her personal reflection on mentorship, Monakshi says:

“I am honoured to receive the 2026 RNFOO Legacy Award and to be recognized for mentorship. In my roles as a Professor at Queen’s University and a Nurse Practitioner specializing in pain management, I have the privilege of supporting learners and colleagues across a range of settings. I am humbled by the words of my nominators and their reflections on the impact we continue to have on one another’s journeys. Mentorship, to me, is grounded in presence, accessibility, and a genuine commitment to supporting others. Knowing that I have contributed in meaningful ways to the personal and professional growth of students and colleagues is a privilege that continues to shape my own path as a nurse, educator, and clinician.

My approach to mentorship is shaped by my experiences as a learner, mentor, nurse practitioner, and educator. I try to create spaces that feel welcoming, inclusive, and psychologically safe, grounded in a commitment to equity and anti-oppressive practice. Whether in the classroom, in clinical practice, or in research settings, my goal is to help nurses recognize their strengths and build confidence.  I strive to model lifelong learning, curiosity, and advocacy. I am privileged to mentor and work alongside nurses to build inclusive, supportive spaces where everyone is empowered to grow.“