Meet Hannah Nauert, an Alternate Entry Master of Science in Nursing student at The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing, pursuing a career as a Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner.
Nauert’s research background is deeply rooted in community-based nutrition and food systems, with a strong focus on public health and fieldwork across Texas. At the UT Nutrition Institute, she worked alongside Robyn Metcalfe, PhD, and the Central Texas Food Bank to develop a comprehensive food system database. This collaborative project aimed to address food insecurity and improve efficiency within local food networks by creating innovative tools and solutions. Through close partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders, she helped advance efforts to improve access and equity in food distribution.
She also contributed to TX Sprouts, a National Institutes of Health-funded study led by Jaimie Davis, PhD, in the UT Department of Nutritional Sciences. Conducted from 2015 to 2020, this research explored the impact of school-based community gardens on children’s nutrition knowledge, dietary habits and understanding of plant science. Nauert’s role in this hands-on, school-centered initiative further reflects her commitment to evidence-based research and meaningful community engagement.
Nauert is dedicated to providing compassionate, empathetic care rooted in holistic, family-centered values. She is especially passionate about serving children and families, drawing on her background in nutrition and public health to inform her practice and advocacy.
Born and raised in Austin, Nauert has a deep love for the outdoors, spending her free time hiking, boating or baking for family and friends.
From her nomination:
“In moments when others may feel overwhelmed, she remains calm, present and deeply human; offering not just medical care, but true healing through empathy, patience and unwavering support.
“She consistently demonstrates the power of the nursing profession by being a steadfast advocate for her patients and a source of inspiration for her colleagues. Whether it’s through patient education, emotional support or simply holding a hand during a difficult moment, she reminds everyone around her that nursing is not just a job, it’s a calling rooted in care, courage and connection. Her actions reflect the heart of what it means to be a nurse, and she elevates the profession through her example every single day.”