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Due to cuts to the Indiana State Library budget, as of August 1, access to several databases made available through the INSPIRE program will be significantly altered or unavailable as we seek access through alternative avenues.

The Story of Consuelo Ornelas-Garcia: Northwest Indiana's First Hispanic Nurse: St. Mary Mercy Hospital School of Nursing

 

Influenced by her older brother Joseph Ornelas, a graduate of Indiana University School of Medicine, and a close friend, she attended St. Mary Mercy Hospital, School of Nursing. Following her acceptance, and in support of the National Defense health activities during WWII, the Hospital’s Director of Nursing invited Connie to enroll in the US Cadet Nurse Corp Program in 1942. She received her diploma on September 1, 1945.

St Mary Mercy diploma

      Connie with a friend, 1942

    Connie with a friend, 1942, CRA 453

Postcard of St Mary Mercy

Postcard, St. Mary Mercy Hospital, CRA 453

Class Photograph of St Mary Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, 1945

Class of 1945, St. Mary Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, CRA 453

         Graduation Photograph of Connie

           Graduation Photograph, 1945, CRA 453