Driven by Purpose, Guided by Compassion
For Noel Pacheco, nursing is more than a profession—it’s a calling rooted in empathy, advocacy, and a deep commitment to community. Growing up in Cleveland and witnessing firsthand the disparities in local healthcare inspired him to pursue a path where he could make a tangible difference.
“I chose nursing because I wanted to be a consistent source of support for patients and their families,� said Pacheco, who will graduate in May 2025 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing. “It’s the small moments—when someone feels heard, supported, and seen—that remind me why I chose this career.�
Drawn to Case Western Reserve University for its early clinical exposure and strong academic reputation, Pacheco has taken full advantage of its location near Cleveland’s leading hospitals and its wealth of research and service opportunities. She’s worked with faculty on projects addressing everything from sleep quality among African American caregivers to diabetes education for families—and is currently completing a clinical externship at the Louis Stokes VA Medical Center.
In the community, Pacheco has volunteered with the American Red Cross and Playhouse Square and spent time in Temascalapa, Mexico, where she taught English and strengthened her Spanish language skills. Her leadership extends to campus as well, where she served as treasurer for the CWRU Photography Club and participated in the DICE (Diabetes Improvement through Cooking and Education) program.
After graduation, she plans to work in the medical intensive care unit at Cleveland Clinic and continue pursuing research and advocacy to improve health equity.
“I’m passionate about using both science and storytelling to educate and uplift,� he said. “Through photography, media, and nursing, I want to create platforms that make healthcare information accessible, relevant, and empowering for everyone.�