A wave of Bluejay pride swept through Creighton University as Nora Sis etched her place in program history. Recalling the electric atmosphere of a packed high school gym, the roar of the crowd, and the shared excitement, the same energy echoed recently in an unexpected setting: a watch party hosted by the Creighton University women’s volleyball team’s own medical professors.

The volleyball court might seem worlds away from the sterile environment of a medical classroom, but for the students and faculty at Creighton University, the lines blur. This became abundantly clear during the recent NCAA Sweet Sixteen, when a group of professors from the College of Nursing hosted a watch party to cheer on their own: student-athlete Norah Sis. Who had just recorded her 1,623rd career kill, solidifying her place in Creighton Volleyball history.

The tweet quickly went viral, capturing the attention of sports fans and educators alike. This wasn’t just about watching volleyball; it was about celebrating a member of their community. 

The watch party became a powerful demonstration of the unique bond between faculty and students at Creighton. Here, Creighton University views academic excellence and athletic pursuits as complementary facets of a well-rounded education, not as rivals. 

How Norah Sis blends elite volleyball with a rigorous nursing career

Beyond being a nursing student, Norah Sis shines as a standout collegiate volleyball player. She’s a powerful outside hitter for Creighton University, a BIG EAST Tournament MVP, VolleyballMag.com National Freshman of the Year, and holds multiple All-BIG EAST selections. Norah is known for her consistent offensive prowess and impactful play on the court.

Every point, every block, every dig was celebrated with the fervor of true believers. This wasn’t just a casual gathering; it was a celebration of community, showcasing a university where academics and athletics complement each other for a well-rounded education. Nora, juggling the demands of medical studies with elite volleyball, found a support system extending far beyond the athletic field.

The professors’ support serves as a powerful reminder of the positive impact faculty can have on student lives. It exemplifies the power of community, mentorship, and fostering a supportive environment where students feel valued and appreciated.

Just as those professors cheered on Nora and her teammates, let’s celebrate the spirit of community and the impact genuine support can have on young people, especially athletes. Whether it’s cheering on a fellow student, offering encouragement during exams, or simply lending an ear, these small acts make a world of difference.

How Creighton University integrates academic rigor and athletic achievement

In addition to being a nursing student, Nora Sis is a star player on Creighton’s volleyball team, one of the top teams in the country. According to a review of team rosters by Flatwater Free Press, ‘Creighton is the only NCAA Division I team ranked in the top 10 of the coaches’ poll with nursing majors on its volleyball roster.’

“Very few top-20 programs around the country will allow you to do nursing,” said Creighton’s longtime coach, Bernthal Booth. The Bluejays, with a 29-2 record and a No. 2 seed in the NCAA tournament, aim to reach the Final Four.

How can universities better support the mental well-being of their student-athletes, especially in the face of setbacks and adversity?