FISH Awards Scholarships to Two Outstanding Medical Students for Their Service and Dedication

At Friends In Service Helping (FISH), our mission is built on compassionate service, community collaboration, and creating pathways to a healthier future. We are proud to recognize two remarkable individuals—Brynna Hansen and Jessica Gordon—for their outstanding commitment to that mission. Both recently accepted into UNR and UNLV medical schools respectively, Brynna and Jessica have been awarded FISH academic scholarships in honor of their exceptional service at the Ross Medical Clinic.

The Ross Medical Clinic, a partnership between FISH and local healthcare providers, offers free medical and dental care to individuals facing critical need or managing chronic health conditions in Carson City and the surrounding areas. It also serves as a real-world training environment for students in medical, nursing, and social work programs.

Through their tireless volunteer work, Brynna and Jessica have demonstrated unwavering compassion, professionalism, and dedication to improving community health. Their leadership and care have made a lasting impact—not only on the patients they’ve served but also on the broader mission of FISH.

“These students embody the heart of FISH’s mission,” said Jim Peckham, Executive Director of FISH. “Their dedication to serving those in need, while balancing the demands of medical school, is nothing short of inspiring. We are honored to support their continued journey in medicine with these scholarships.”

FISH’s collaboration with the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) School of Medicine and Nursing programs provides students with hands-on, community-based clinical experience. In addition, FISH partners with multiple colleges and universities to support internships and fieldwork for social work students—strengthening both student education and the safety net for vulnerable families across the region.

By supporting Brynna and Jessica in their continued academic and clinical training, FISH reaffirms its commitment to empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals—those who lead with service, equity, and a heart for healing.

Congratulations to Brynna and Jessica, and thank you for your incredible contributions to FISH and the community we serve.