Jordyn Bailey, Ella Davis, marching band and Bearcat

Meet the nursing students on UC’s Homecoming Court

By Evelyn Fleider Email Evelyn 513-5582996

7 minute read October 21, 2025

Two Bearcat Nurses are trading their scrubs for crowns as part of this year’s University of Cincinnati Homecoming Court. Having not one but two nursing students on the court highlights how nurses lead not only in health care, but across campus and the community. From caring for patients to inspiring their peers, these future nurse leaders are bringing their passion, pride and plenty of UC spirit to this year’s celebration.

Meet Jordyn Bailey and Ella Davis

Where are you from and what year of nursing school are you in?

Jordyn Bailey (JB): I'm a fourth-year student from Toledo, Ohio.

Ella Davis (ED): I'm a third-year student from Cincinnati.

What made you choose nursing?

Davis (with a friend) stand in front of a Remote Area Medical truck with their arms up to spell "UC"

Davis (with a friend) are members of the executive committee for Remote Area Medical. Photo/provided

JB: I have always been drawn to health care, and nursing felt like the perfect fit because of its deep focus on patient-centered care. I genuinely love connecting with people — learning about their stories, passions and perspectives — and nursing gives me the unique opportunity to combine that human connection with clinical knowledge, critical thinking and empathetic care to support others in some of their most vulnerable moments.

ED: I love the meaningful connections nurses build with their patients and the incredible, hands-on impact they make every day.

Why did you choose UC?

JB: My mom has always told me, “Don’t go where you are just tolerated, go where you are celebrated.” From the very beginning, UC made it clear that I was not only welcomed but truly valued.

Even before I set foot on campus, I felt seen — through scholarship offers, programs designed to foster a strong sense of belonging and leadership development opportunities that spoke directly to my aspirations. UC celebrated my accomplishments and my potential to grow as a nurse leader. That’s how I knew this was a place where I wouldn’t just succeed— I would thrive, surrounded by a community committed to supporting my journey every step of the way.

ED: I chose UC because of the amazing nursing program and the unique opportunities it offers, like the co-op experience and the partnerships with so many local hospitals. I knew UC would prepare me to be the best nurse I can be through both the curriculum and leadership opportunities, and of course I love the campus and this city.

What’s something fun or surprising about you outside of school?

Bailey as this year's Miss Kuamka. Photo provided

JB: I'm a musical enthusiast! I grew up as a theater kid and loved performing in my school’s musical productions every year. I’ve seen "The Lion King" on Broadway and have plenty more shows on my must-see list!

ED: I love to cook and try new recipes, read and go hiking. I also spend a lot of my time working with philanthropies like The Make-A-Wish Foundation and Madi’s House.

How do you balance your academics, extracurriculars and social life?

JB: Prioritization and proactive communication are everything! I'm realistic with myself — my needs ebb and flow from day to day. Some days school takes the lead, other times it’s family, friends or extracurriculars. I stick to my schedule and communicate within the different areas of my life about what I need. I'm very grateful to have such amazing people in my corner who want to see me succeed!

ED: Organization is key. I stay on top of all my coursework and tasks with an assignment spreadsheet and lots of to do lists. I like to delegate certain hours and times of the day to different areas of my life: school, other interests and fun.

It’s absolutely possible to be a nursing student who does well in school, is involved on campus and still has a good time — it just takes some time management! Balancing it all is so much easier thanks to my incredible support system of friends and family.

What was your first reaction when you found out you made Homecoming Court?

Davis and her family. Photo provided.

JB: I was in disbelief — but incredibly grateful. Since being nominated at the end of last academic year, it's been a long process alongside so many impressive candidates. Being selected as one of the top 10 among such a special group of Bearcats is truly humbling.

ED: I was so shocked! Being nominated alone was such an honor, so finding out I’d advanced to Homecoming Court was incredibly exciting. I felt so grateful to everyone who’s supported me along the way. UC gives me countless reasons to count my blessings every day.

What does being on Homecoming Court mean to you?

JB: Being on Homecoming Court represents a legacy of excellence that I’m proud to continue. Vera Derkson Williams, who also graduated from the College of Nursing in 1978, was UC’s first Black Homecoming Queen.

Learning that she was not only a trailblazer but also a nursing student like me was a major inspiration — and ultimately one of the reasons I decided to apply for Court. I’m deeply grateful for pioneers like her who have shattered glass ceilings, allowing me to dream boldly and believe that no aspiration is out of reach.

ED: Being on Homecoming Court means being recognized as a changemaker and leader on campus. Every person on Court is accomplished and passionate in different ways, and together we represent the many opportunities UC offers for personal and professional growth. I hope our experiences inspire other students to get involved — it’s never too late to find your place here!

What are you most looking forward to during Homecoming week?

Bailey, who is co-opping at UC Medical Center, poses by the Bearcat statue. Photo provided.

JB: I'm looking forward to tailgating with my friends and seeing my family, who are driving down to watch the Homecoming ceremony.

ED: I’m so excited to celebrate UC all week long! You can catch me trying to complete The Perfect Week at Skyline, joining in on events like Car Smash and the Graeter’s Truck and soaking up all the amazing energy that comes with celebrating the place that brought us all together.

Congratulations also to UC Blue Ash nursing student Reda Fathalah, a King nominee!

Featured photo at top of Homecoming Court nominees Jordyn Bailey and Ella Davis. Photo/UC Nursing.