Ava Ladner

Meet Ava Ladner, a sophomore nursing major at Texas State University. Originally from Fulshear, Texas, Ava was drawn to Texas State for its welcoming campus environment, supportive social life, and scholarship opportunities. Since beginning her journey here, Ava has fully embraced the life she’s created in San Marcos academically, personally, and within campus organizations.

Ava is a proud member of Zeta Tau Alpha (ZTA) and contributes her creativity to the signs team, creating designs that support the sorority’s mission of promoting breast cancer education and awareness. One of their most impactful initiatives is Pink Week, their philanthropy week held once a semester. The members of ZTA host events in which all of the funding is donated to breast cancer research. Ava loves how ZTA has allowed her to build genuine relationships while also being able to use her free time to give back to her community. Her goal within the organization is to help fundraise as much money as possible to breast cancer awareness. 

She is also an active member in the Pre-Nursing Organization at Texas State, where Ava finds guidance, structure, and encouragement in her studies. She values the meetings, especially the guest speakers who offer insight into different paths available for pre-nursing majors. The organization has given her confidence as she prepares for nursing school and a clear understanding on how to reach her dream career. 

Following graduation, Ava plans to become a labor and delivery nurse, where she hopes to support women and families through life changing moments. She also dreams of working in esthetics, blending her love for healthcare with her interest in beauty and creative detail. Her long term goals include getting accepted into nursing school, completing the program, and building a career that brings her fulfillment and purpose. 

What motivates Ava through her journey are those around her. She thrives when surrounded by those who push her to be her best, especially her best friend Angelina, who is also a nursing major. Their shared goals keep each other focused, encouraged, and excited for their future.

Those around her would describe Ava as passionate, responsible, motivated, and kind, qualities that shine in everything that she does. From academics to leadership to service, Ava drives herself to rise above and beyond and continues to grow in all her endeavors.

Story by Stelos Fellow, Ainsley Svitenko