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The Copeland family has been involved in the University of Victoria community for many years. Wendy's father, Charles "Chuck" Copeland, played rugby for Victoria College at the Craigdarroch Castle campus in the 1930s. His old and worn rugby shirt and boots are displayed in the UVic Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities on campus.

Wendy's mother, Muriel, was secretary in the UVic Student Health Department for 25 years. From the time it was a small hut on the outskirts of campus, to its move to the present site in the late 1970s, to her retirement in 1982, she greeted and comforted students and welcomed visitors.

Wendy received both undergraduate and graduate degrees from UVic. Her career in nursing spanned many years during which she worked as a bedside nurse, administrator, in community health and, finally, as an educator at Royal Jubilee Hospital School of Nursing and Camosun College. Wendy's work at Camosun brought her in close touch with the UVic School of Nursing faculty and students, and both campuses gave her an appreciation for the needs of students. As such, Wendy's passion for nursing, both as a caregiver and a mentor, led her to establish this award. It has become her way of giving back to the profession that has given her so much.