Clinical nurse specialist named Distinguished Graduate Speaker for June convocation

A nursing alum has been named the 2025 Distinguished Graduate Speaker (DGS) for the UCalgary convocation ceremonies on June 3. As DGS, Kathryn DaSilva Curiel, MN’10 will lead the graduating class in reciting the Graduate's Pledge. This is a significant moment as degrees are conferred immediately following the pledge; she also congratulates each new graduate in the Class of 2025 as they cross the stage and welcomes them to the alumni community.

DaSilva Curiel started her nursing career at BC Children’s in paediatric oncology after graduating from UBC in 1989. Following this, she was part of the team that started the program at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, the first paediatric hospice in North America.

In 1998, she relocated to Calgary and taught as a clinical instructor at both the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University as well as worked in paediatric oncology.  

In 2004, DaSilva Curiel resumed her work in paediatric palliative care at Alberta Children’s providing inter-professional consultative care. In 2010, she completed her Master’s degree at the University of Calgary with a focus in advanced nursing practice in paediatric palliative care. 

The Rotary Flames House (RFH), Alberta’s paediatric hospice opened in 2011. As a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) for the past 13 years at RFH, she counts the opportunity to enhance paediatric palliative care and mentor nursing colleagues as her most important career achievements.

We asked Kathryn to share a bit more about herself in this Q&A.

Where are you now and how did you end up there?
“I am a CNS with Palliative Home Care in Calgary. After 35 years in paediatrics with the last 25 in paediatric palliative care (hospice and consultative program in acute care), I was ready for a new challenge.”

Best memory from UCalgary Nursing?
“The seminar classes and getting to know my colleagues and hearing about their practices.”

What did you do in your spare time during your nursing program?
“Looked after my family; my children were 6 and 4 when I started my graduate degree.”

A talent you wish you had?
“Singing.”

Your greatest extravagance?
“Splurging on food for family get togethers.”

A dream yet to fulfill?
“Visit Portugal.”

Your motto?
“Glass is half full.”

What do you consider a most overrated virtue?
“Excessive self-confidence.”

When were you happiest, and where?
“Skiing with my family in Kimberly.”

Anything you’d rather be doing right now?
“Gardening!”

What do you most value in your friends?
“Trust, laughter and connection.”

Did you have a mentor or do you now?
“Lillian Rallison when I was a new CNS and Rotary Flames House had just opened.”

What is it about being a nurse/your role that keeps you going?
“The most important aspect is the relationships I have and have had with patients and their families. I love caring for children. I love being part of a team that provides excellence in health care.”

Any good snippets of advice to share with new grads? 
“Find your 'people' or 'person' for support, sharing and advice.”