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Sierra Donor Services awards scholarships at PNAC3 Gala
November 26, 2025
Sierra Donor Services (SDS) was honored to join the Philippines Nurses Association California Capital City (PNAC3) community at its recent annual gala, an inspiring evening dedicated to excellence in nursing, cultural celebration, and advancing the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Representing SDS were Michael Coleman, Director of Communications, and Angelika Williams, Senior External Affairs Coordinator, who were proud to stand alongside PNAC3 in recognizing the extraordinary contributions of Filipino nurses throughout our region. This event marked an important opportunity to strengthen partnerships rooted in shared values: service, compassion, and the desire to improve lives through meaningful work in healthcare.
Honoring Two Outstanding Nursing Students
One of the evening’s highlights was the presentation of two $1,000 Sierra Donor Services scholarships to exemplary nursing students whose commitment to their profession embodies both the mission of SDS and the spirit of the PNAC3 community.
Award recipient, Mark Buan-Lagazo, BSBA, MSN-Ed, RN, PHN (third from right)
Congratulations, Jet and Mark!
Award recipient, Ma Milani (Jet) Zabala, MN, RN, CCM, IBCLC (third from left)
The PNAC3 gala brought together nurses, students, leaders, and partners to honor the accomplishments of Filipino American nurses and highlight the importance of cultural representation in healthcare. The event underscored the critical role nurses play not only in patient care, but also in advancing health equity and supporting families during life’s most challenging moments.
For SDS, it was especially meaningful to stand in partnership with an organization whose members often serve as frontline advocates for organ and tissue donation. Their voices, compassion, and trusted relationships with families make a profound impact on saving and healing lives. Sierra Donor Services extends heartfelt congratulations to Jet and Mark, and deep gratitude to PNAC3 for its continued leadership and collaboration. Together, we look forward to supporting future healthcare professionals and empowering the communities we serve.
Check out more photos from the PNAC Gala!
About Sierra Donor Services
Sierra Donor Services (SDS) serves nearly three million people in Northern California and Northern Nevada. We are an exceptional team of professionals dedicated to saving and improving lives by connecting organ and tissue donation to the patients who need them. We strive to extend the reach of each generous donor’s gift to those who are always profoundly grateful for them.