2007 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

2006 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

2005 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction


Complete List of Winners
1992 - 2006 (PDF)

forms

 

Awards of Distinction

Applications for the Awards of Distinction are due February 14, 2009.

Criteria

Award for Excellence in Research

  1. Contributes significantly to the development of nursing science and nursing practice through research.

  2. Collaborates with nursing colleagues and other health-related professionals to facilitate nursing research.  (Examples of collaboration may include but are not limited to co-authorship of publications, joint funding, and consultation.)

  3. Communicates research findings through publication and presentation at scholarly meetings.

  4. Actively promotes utilization of research in practice and/or education.

  5. Mentors and promotes the development of new and/or other investigators.

  6. Received funding for nursing research.

Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice

  1. Demonstrates clinical expertise in the delivery of patient care.

  2. Provides direct patient care at least 50 percent of the time.

  3. Mentors and promotes the development of other health care professionals.

  4. Utilizes current research and professional literature in practice.

  5. Participates in community affairs, the legislative process, or organizations that affect nursing practice.

  6. Promotes change in the health care environment for the improvement of health care.

  7. Collaborates with nursing colleagues and other health-related professionals to facilitate quality care.

  8. Promotes a professional image of nursing.

Award for Excellence in Education

  1. Makes outstanding contributions to the education of nurses and/or nursing students.

  2. Creates an environment conducive to learning.

  3. Collaborates with nurses and/or other health-related professionals to develop comprehensive educational programs.

  4. Mentors and promotes the development of educational abilities in others.

  5. Demonstrates innovative teaching strategies.

  6. Encourages critical thinking within educational activities.

  7. Utilizes research findings in educational activities.

Award for Excellence in Leadership

  1. Contributes significantly to the nursing profession as a leader in administration, education, practice and/or research.

  2. Receives local, national and/or international recognition as a nursing leader.

  3. Influences nursing through visionary and innovative approaches.

  4. Creates an environment that enhances the image of nurses and nursing.

  5. Mentors and promotes the development of leadership abilities in others.

  6. Provides leadership in professional organizations by holding office and/or serving on committees.


2007 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Clinical Practice 

            The recipient of the 2007 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu Chapter Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice is Jill Arzouman, MS, APRN, BC, CNS. Jill was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp. Jill is a clinical nurse specialist at University Medical Center, specializing in surgical oncology. As an expert in dealing with multi-system problems, she is recognized by her peers for her advanced knowledge and problem-solving skills. While working with Academy of Medical Surgical Nursing (AMSN), Jill has assisted with reviewing national policies and making recommendations. Jill is developing a website for AMSN to provide nurses information on evidenced based practice. Jill has been instrumental in developing the rapid response team at University Medical Center. This program has improved outcomes for patients who need quick response by a multidisciplinary team. She consistently shares her vast knowledge by presenting at local, state and national conferences, and contributing to journals and books. A mentor to physicians, nurses, and technicians, she is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Arizona College of Nursing, and a member of numerous professional organizations. Congratulations, Jill, for all your many contributions to the profession of nursing.

Excellence in Education 

            The recipient of the 2007 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu Chapter Award for Excellence in Education is Lynda Gallagher, RN, MSN, BC. Lynda was nominated by Jayne Lowery. As the manager of Staff Development at Carondelet Health Network (CHN), Lynda was recognized for facilitating the development and implementation of numerous clinical education partnerships at CHN, to ultimately increase the nursing workforce. While personally teaching many classes, Lynda was acknowledged by her students as a source of great inspiration and encouragement, and a driving force in their careers. She has created opportunities for staff to learn in many ways, giving them opportunities to use computer and web based programs as well as self paced learning programs and instructor lead activities. Lynda also encourages critical thinking in her other educational activities. She teaches microbiology and leadership classes at the University of Phoenix, Professional Dynamics, research and management classes for Grand Canyon University, and entry level skills to nursing students at Pima Community College as well as her daily classes at Carondelet Health Network. She continues to evaluate her classes and incorporate evidence based practice in all aspects of her teaching. She utilizes research findings and comparative data bases to develop and redesign all the educational opportunities at Carondelet Health Network. Congratulations Lynda, our nursing community celebrates your accomplishments!

Excellence in Leadership

             The recipient of the 2007 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu Chapter Award for Excellence in Leadership is Ida (Ki) M. Moore, DNSc, RN, FAAN. Dr. Moore was nominated by Dr. Carrie Merkle. Dr. Moore was acknowledged for her extensive contributions to the nursing profession as a leader in administration, education, clinical practice, and research. She teaches both undergraduate and graduate nursing students, and consistently receives high praise from all of her students. She truly values each and every student, faculty member, staff, and the entire nursing community. Dr. Moore brings a high degree of energy and optimism to her job, as well as a fair and helpful attitude. She also enjoys national and international recognition for her many contributions to nursing science. A frequent speaker at national conferences on cancer research, she recently received the 2007 Distinguished Researcher Award from the Oncology Nursing Society. Dr. Moore’s leadership, mentoring, and research expertise are making a profound impact on the profession of nursing locally, nationally and internationally. We are proud to confer this award on such a worthy candidate!

Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment

             The recipient of the 2007 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu Chapter Award for Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment is Gail Priestley, APRN, BC, MS, CCRN. Gail was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp. Over Gail’s 26 year career at University Medical Center she has consistently practiced with exceptional qualities of compassion and respect for her patients. She is known throughout the community for her advocacy, knowledge and commitment to patient safety. She has presented at several local, state and national Critical Care Conferences, and is frequently sought out as a consultant to local physicians, pharmacists, dietitians, and health care leaders. Gail demonstrates the unique characteristics of leadership, advocacy and commitment to the health and safety of the population she serves. She practices with respect for the inherent dignity, worth and uniqueness of every individual, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, and personal attributes. Gail consistently takes on what some may call the “not so exciting” projects in patient care and has improved outcomes for her patients. She has a passion for learning, and mentors her colleagues to view research as a tool to assist in best practice and evidence based nursing and to continually drive for excellence in nursing. Our community is blessed to have a practicing nurse of Gail’s caliber. Congratulations Gail!

The 2007 STTI Awards Committee was chaired by Peggy MacMacken, RN, MS, CNAA, BC, who would like to acknowledge the 2007 Awards Committee for their support, time, and tireless effort in the review and selection process. I extend my sincere thanks to Susan Bohnenkamp, UMC, Carol Feingold, College of Nursing, Kim Shea, College of Nursing and Donna Zazworsky, Carondelet Health Network.


2006 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Clinical Practice 

            The recipient of the 2006 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu chapter Award for Excellence in Nursing Practice is Susan Bohnenkamp, MS, RN, CCM, APRN-BC. Annie Blackett nominated Susie. Susie is an oncology clinical nurse specialist at University Medical Center where she collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to devise the most appropriate plan of care for her patients. Susie began her career at UMC as a staff nurse, progressing to charge nurse, clinical case manager and clinical nurse specialist. She acquired her Master’s degree and certifications in case management and as a clinical nurse specialist. In addition to providing excellent patient care, Susie mentors other staff. She initiated a journal club that has stimulated many evidence-based changes in nursing practice. Susie participated in a research project on the use of telemedicine for managing home management of patients with ostomies. Susie is a valued member of Beta Mu!

Excellence in Leadership

             The recipient of the 2006 Sigma Theta Tau, International, Beta Mu chapter Award for Excellence in Leadership is Carol Feingold, MS, RN, CSN. Margaret Gigstad nominated Carol. Carol is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. Carol has mentored many faculty members at the College, setting high standards and helping new faculty meet them. Carol is on the leading edge of nursing education, bringing team learning to the College. She is working with the College of Medicine to help them implement this exciting new method of instruction. Carol has also been a leader in the use of simulators for teaching patient care skills. Peggy writes: “In the classroom, in the clinical area, or serving her community, Carol Feingold is a consummate professional, a role model to faculty and an outstanding representative of nursing.’ Beta Mu is proud to claim Carol as a member!

Outstanding Graduate Student Award

             The recipient of the Sigma Theta Tau, International Beta Mu chapter Award for the Outstanding Graduate Student is Kimberly Shea, MS, RN. Joyce Verran nominated Kim. Kim is in the process of completing her written comprehensive examination in the PhD program at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. Kim is the student representative for both Master’s and Doctoral students, a challenging role as many of the students are distance learners. Kim has weekly meetings with the local students and online forums for those out of town to help them with course content. Joyce writes: “Without a doubt Kim is viewed by students as a mentor and a successful novice researcher.”

Congratulations, Kim!

2005 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Leadership

           Virginia Goldner, nominated by Peggy MacMacken and Jayne Lowry, was the recipient of the 2005 Excellence in Leadership Award.  Ginny has worked at St Joseph’s Hospital for the past 25 years and is currently the Director, Medical Surgical Services and the Diabetes Care Center.  Ms MacMacken wrote that Ginny is “. . . one of the most inspiring, creative and effective leaders with whom I have ever worked”.   Ms MacMacken goes on to praise Ginny’s ability to influence nursing through visionary and innovative approaches writing that creativity “. . . is one of Ginny’s greatest gifts . . . which has resulted in amazing problem solving and exemplary patient safety programs.”  Ms Lowry writes that “Ginny is a leader in both words and actions.  Her creativity, courage, commitment, and determination have served to move nurses, physicians and other healthcare workers forward in creating an exceptional environment for patients an staff.”  Ginny’s response to the important patient safety issue of patient falls led to her development of the “Ruby Red Slippers” program to identify patients at risk for falls.  This program is gaining nationwide recognition through the Ascension Health organization

              In addition to her position at St. Joseph’s, Ginny is an active member in the Arizona Nurses Association and the Arizona Organization of Nurse Executives.  She has been involved in the Arizona Hospital Association’s “Campaign for Caring” and a member of the Board of Directors for the Tucson Nurse Week Foundation.

 

Excellence in Clinical Practice

              Kara Adams, nominated by Gail Priestley, was the recipient of the 2005 Excellence in Clinical Practice Award.  Kara is a Clinical Nurse Specialist at University Medical Center.  Ms Priestley, also a Clinical Nurse Specialist at UMC, wrote “Kara loves to ‘do’ and she loves to ‘teach’, whether within classroom walls or out on a busy unit… Kara involves staff in projects and guides them through the process of improving care.”  In addition she wrote that “Kara is a very busy and productive professional nurse.  She has written several chapters for textbooks and has published articles on critical care topics.  She lectures locally and nationally.  On a daily basis she brings her enthusiasm for the science of nursing to the bedside . . .”

              Kara has implemented practice changes such as that of oral care for intubated patients that are research-based.  She was instrumental in the implementation of the RASS (Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale) for use in the ICU.  She has initiated changes that reduced pneumonia in ventilated patients, and reduced central line infections.

              In addition to her work at UMC Kara is an active member of the America Association of Critical Care Nurses, the Society of Critical Care Medicine and is a second-generation member of Sigma Theta Tau.

 

Excellence in Education

 

              Diana Platt Lopez, nominated by Mary Kelley and SueKay Ulrich, was the recipient of the 2005 Excellence in Teaching Award.  Ms Lopez is the Resource Clinician (Clinical Educator) for the Emergency Department at St. Mary’s  Hospital.  Ms Kelley describes Diana as  “. . . a great asset to the Emergency Department.  She was tasked to develop from scratch a program what would train new graduates to the ED setting.  She did this with grace and a lot of hard work.”  Ms Platt “developed classes unique to the ED, planning the schedule for the nurse to get bedside training and appropriate training outside the ED.”  In addition to orientation programs, Diane “develops a yearly skills day for both required competencies and sills that are not frequently used in the ED.”

              Ms Ulrich described the program for orientation of new ED nurses that Diane developed, saying that “if is now an established and highly regarded program, known in the ED community for its support and nurturing of the new graduate nurse in the ED.”  Ms Ulrich went on to say the “Diana Shares her expertise willingly and freely to ensure that the needs of the students are met.”

              In addition to her membership in Sigma Theta Tau, Diana is a member of the American Association of Critical Care Nurses and the Emergency Nurses Association.

 

Excellence in Research

 

             Rita A. Snyder, PhD, RN was the recipient of the 2005 Excellence in Research Award, nominated by Dr. Elaine Jones.  Dr. Snyder is an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona College of Nursing.

              Dr. Jones writes the Dr. Snyder’s “ . . .research demonstrates exceptional expertise in questions affecting contemporary nursing practice.  For example, Dr. Snyder’s current study focuses on how systems problems are related to medication errors.  Her results will inform recommendations to decrease mediation errors in nursing units around the country.”  Dr. Snyder collaborates with other health-related professionals to facilitate nursing research, Dr Jones writes.  “Many of Dr. Snyder’s publications are co-authored with colleagues in different disciplines and she has mentored many graduate students in her area of research.”

              In support of Dr. Snyder’s nomination, Dr. Mary Doyle wrote “Dr. Snyder is a valuable role model for graduate students learning about and participating in research.  She exemplifies excellence in her dedication to research and scholarship.”

              Dr. Snyder is a member of the Arizona Nurses Association, the American Medical Informatics Association, and has been the Research Counselor for Beta Mu Chapter and a member of the Steering Committee for the Arizona Sigma Theta Tau Research Consortium.

 

Exceptional Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment Award

 

              It was with mixed pride and sorrow that the2005  Exceptional Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment Award was awarded to Patricia Mc Donald.  Pat, a Wound/Ostomy Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Practitioner at University Medical Center was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp. 

              In her nomination Susan wrote of Pat “Pat is an advocate for her patients.  She will not stop until everyone understands the patient’s wishes.  She tries to get what the patients need, and will not except no for an answer.  I admire the candidate for her love of nursing and how she conveys and encourages everyone to be the best that they can be.  She always says that the patient comes first and everything else will follow.  Patients say that Pat is extremely compassionate and respectful.”

              Gail Priestley wrote in support of Pat’s nomination “I have always been impressed with her commitment to her patients and families and dedication to ‘doing the right thing’.  Gail described Pat’s use of telemedicine to serve patients in outlying areas.  “This program extends high quality care to those who would otherwise have to travel long distances or may not have resources.  Pat presented issues related to the use of telemedicine in rural healthcare to the Arizona State Legislature. . .”

              Pat succumbed to cancer just days before she would have received this award.  The award was presented to her daughters and mother. 

 

Outstanding Graduate Student Award

            Rochelle Renee Storm was the recipient of the 2005 Graduate Student Award.  She was nominated by Eileen Harrison.  Ms Storm is a doctoral candidate in the University of Arizona College Of Nursing.  She also works at the Southern Arizona VA Health Care System in the inpatient addition detoxification service.

              According to Ms Harrison, Rochelle “consistently demonstrates a high level of excellent nursing care, compassion, sincerity and knowledge.  Her patient interactions serve as role models for students and peers alike.  Rochelle mentors nurses and has her own highly effective teaching style.  She demonstrates a commitment to nursing research, dissemination of that research, and evidence-based nursing practice.”

In support of Rochelle’s nomination Dr M. Sue Pennington, PhD, RN, wrote that “Ms Storm has progressed in the doctoral program at an exemplary pace with demonstrated scholarship.  Ms Storm has been the epitome of professionalism in nursing since I have known her: as head nurse, acting Associate Chief Nurse, as Nurse Practitioner, and now, as a doctoral student.  She has consistently demonstrated a high level of energy, which she channeled toward improving programs for veterans and staff.


Sigma Theta Tau Beta Mu · College of Nursing · 1305 N. Martin · Tucson, AZ  85721-0203

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