And the Winner Is... Honoring an Inspiring School Nurse with the Barbara J. Birks Award

This year, we introduced the Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award to honor the memory of Barbara J. Birks, the late mother of our Executive Director, Elaine Birks-Mitchell. Barbara cared deeply about helping children in need and supporting the educators and school nurses who make a difference every day.

This award is a way to celebrate those who go above and beyond for their students and communities.

We’re thrilled to announce the very first recipient of this special award: Patricia Thornton, a dedicated school nurse at Shamley School in Tempe, AZ.

A Lifetime of Caring

Patricia, or Nurse Thornton as many know her, has been caring for students at Shamley School in Tempe, AZ, for an incredible 32 years. But she’s much more than a school nurse—she’s a trusted ally for families, an advocate for students, and a true source of kindness and support for everyone she meets.

Ms. Jennifer Ostrom, who nominated Patricia, shared just how much she’s done for the school and community:

"Patricia Thornton takes the time to know students personally and their individual needs. She never hesitates to make home visits, share community resources, and give individual attention to students who need a little extra tender loving care. In fact, relationship building is a key hallmark of Nurse Thornton's skillset."

"She has treated and supported multiple generations of the same family and is often invited to family events due to her important role in their lives. She knows when families need help, finds creative ways to meet needs, and always puts the needs of students first."

Making a Lasting Difference

Patricia’s care doesn’t stop in the school building. She ensures students with chronic medical needs have the help they need at home and even after moving on to high school. She’s always prepared to step up, whether keeping extra clothes and food in her office or finding creative ways to support families in tough times.

Ms. Ostrom added:

"Nurse Thornton is one of those amazing school nurses who has spent her life caring for students in a way that has had a life-changing impact on so many. She is a fierce advocate for students and a wonderful resource for staff and families. We are so lucky to have her on our nursing team."

Why This Award Matters

The Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award celebrates the unsung heroes in our schools—nurses and teachers who help children in need every day. These amazing individuals are the heart of our mission to provide basic essentials like underwear to kids who need them most. Their care makes it possible for students to thrive with confidence and dignity.

Patricia Thornton shows exactly why this award was created. Her kindness, dedication, and care inspire everyone around her and remind us how much of a difference one person can make.

Nominate Someone for Next Year

If you know a school nurse or teacher who goes above and beyond for their students, we’d love to hear about them. Nominations for the 2025 Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award will open in August 2025.

From all of us at The Undie Chest and the Barbara J. Birks family, congratulations to Patricia Thornton! Thank you for all the amazing work you do.