2011 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

2010 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

2009 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

2008 Recipients of the
Awards of Distinction

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)

2011 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Leadership
Elizabeth (Betty) Falter, RN,MS, NEA-BC is the 2011 Beta Mu Excellence in Leadership recipient. Betty is passionate about leadership and believes that sound and effective leadership creates a better work environment, improves patient safety, and enhances care. Betty developed her own consulting practice, Falter & Associates, Inc., in 1990. The focus of her practice was integrating leadership training with nursing operations. In 2001 Betty relocated from New York to Tucson and re-incorporated Falter & Associates, Inc. establishing a relationship with the Arizona Healthcare Leadership Academy in 2004. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of the Arizona Healthcare Leadership Academy, a not for profit educational program for front line and middle healthcare managers. In addition to her administrative duties, Betty is an instructor in both the basic and advanced courses. Betty brings a unique blend of operations knowledge and outstanding presentation skills to create a positive, highly interactive and real learning environment. She has been published in numerous professional journals and is a frequent presenter and educator. Betty is the issue editor and published author in the February, 2011, issue of AONE’s "Nurse Leader." Her article is entitled, “RN CEOs: The Arizona Experience.” It will be the subject of a podium presentation at AONE’s 2011 annual meeting. Betty also serves on the board of Nursing Administration Quarterly and was the book review editor managing her own column for over five years.

Excellence in Research
The 2010 award for Excellence in Research was awarded to Elaine Jones, PhD, RN, Associate Professor at The University of Arizona College of Nursing. Dr. Jones is a passionate advocate for the deaf community and has maintained a program of research for over 25 years with a focus on improving the quality of life for deaf individuals. She has published extensively in this area. Some of her publications in the last 5 years include: Jones, E., Renger, R. & Firestone, R. (2005). Deaf community analysis for health education priorities. Public Health Nursing, 22 (1), pp 27-35. Jones, E., Ouelette, S., & Kang, Y. (2006, Spring). Perceived stress among deaf adults. American Annals of the Deaf. 151 (1): 25-31. Jones, E., Mallinson, K.R., Phillips, L. & Kang, Y. (2006). Challenges in language, culture, and modality. Nursing Research,55(2), 75-81. Jones, E., Renger, R. & Kang, Y. (2007). Self efficacy for health-related behaviors among Deaf adults. Research in Nursing & Health. 30, 185-192. Crogan, N., Jones, E.G. & Kang, Y. (2007). Nutritional health among deaf adults. JADARA (Journal of the American Deafness and Rehabilitation Association), 40(1): 49-72. Trinh, H. & Jones, E.G. (2007, fall). Fruit and vegetable intake among Deaf adults and risk of heart disease. Journal of Undergraduate Nursing Scholarship. Harrington, J., Jones, E., & Badger, T. ( Mar,2009), Creating and Testing a Deaf- Friendly, Stop-smoking Web Site Intervention. American Annals of the Deaf 155 (1): 96-102. Jones, E. & Boyle, J.S. (2011). Working with Translators and Interpreters in Research: Lessons Learned. Journal of Transcultural Nursing. XX(X) 1-7. Additionally, Dr. Jones is recognized as an expert in translating questionnaires from written English into visual American Sign Language.

Excellence in Education
The 2011 winner for Excellence in Education is Ms. Roxanne Moutafis, Roxanne Moutafis has been a faculty member at The University of Arizona College of Nursing for over 19 years and created the Summer Student Nurse Externship Program for senior nursing students for University Medical Center (UMC) in 1998 which she continues to coordinate and oversee each summer. On a national level, Roxanne was appointed as the academic representative from The University of Arizona in 2001 to assist in the development of a post Baccalaureate Nurse Residency Pro/gram. This program was initiated in June 2001 as a national demonstration project supported by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and University Healthsystems Consortium. The program supports new BSN-prepared nurses throughout their first year in practice and encourages leadership development in clinical nursing. In 2008, Ms. Moutafis was appointed as a national site evaluator for the Commission on Colligate Nursing Education (CCNE), a nationally recognized accrediting body responsible for the evaluation of post-baccalaureate nurse residency programs. She participated as a member of the evaluation team involved in the evaluation of the initial institutions receiving national accreditation. Currently Ms. Moutafis serves as an appointed member of the Arizona State Board of Nursing Education Committee. Ms. Moutafis is widely recognized for her expertise in new graduate nurse residencies and is an invited speaker for national program training sessions and consults nationally for the program.

Excellence in Clinical Practice
The 2011 honoree for Excellence in Clinical Practice is Mary Anne Kinne. Ms. Kinne is an integral part of the Critical Care Team at Tucson Medical Center (TMC), and exemplifies skill and professionalism in her daily practice. Mary was the primary clinician in the development and implementation of the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner in the 40 bed Intensive Care Unit at Tucson Medical Center. Her patient population encompasses emergency department admissions, medical/surgical, cardiac and neuro patient. She expertly assesses, diagnosis, formulates and implements a treatment plan for these patients, and has become a highly sought after nurse practitioner who has earned the respect of both her nursing and physician colleagues. She leads the rapid response team on the night shift, and not only expertly cares for the patient, but provides comforting support to the family as well. She is a widely sought after resource by nurses and physicians. Ms. Kinne is an adjunct clinical instructor for the University of Arizona College of Nursing and St. Louis College of Nursing for advanced practice nurses and teaches residents as a member of the non-physician faculty for the training and evaluation of transitional research for the Tucson Healthcare Medical Education Program. Additionally, she teaches "Fundamentals of Critical Care" for the Society of Critical Care Medicine. Ms. Kinne has been actively involved in TMC's first bedside nursing research study, entitled "Measuring Nurse Satisfaction with Bar Code Medication Administration," the results of which will be presented TMC’s April Research Symposium.

Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment
Mary Steele, Director of Hospice/Palliative Care Services, received Beta Mu's 2011Exceptional Ethical Behavior, Professional Commitment award. Ms. Steele’s leadership is based on a foundation of personal and professional values. An example of compassion (honoring body, mind, and spirit) is the leadership role she takes with a community initiative entitled Caring for the Caregiver. Mary makes sure there are activities provided within her institution that support the community initiative, but also provide balance and levity for the caregiver. She works diligently to assure that everyone has an opportunity to participate in such activities. She is a frequent presenter at community churches, academic facilities, community groups e.g. Rotary Club and Eldercare, on the topics of palliative care and end of life issues. She has been a long term member of the American Heart Association, and served as a team leader for fundraising at Tucson Medical Center, Chair of the Heart Walk, Go Red for Women Luncheon, and has been a Board member for the Direct Caregivers Association. She is committed to professionalism and excellence, and is an effective mentor to her staff and managers. Mary indeed honors the legacy left us by our fallen colleagues in whose honor this award was created.

Graduate Student Award
Dr. Melanie Logue received the 2011 Beta Mu Graduate Student Award. She entered the DNP program at the University of Arizona in 2007. By the end of the first semester, she decided that she was also drawn to research so transferred to the PhD program. In 2010, the College of Nursing began to offer a Dual Degree option, allowing students to obtain both a DNP and a PhD and she became the first nursing student to graduate with the dual doctoral degree in May, 2011. Melanie demonstrates leadership within student or professional groups. She is chair of the Graduate Faculty Committee at Grand Canyon University, where she is currently an Assistant Professor. She is President Elect of Arizona Nurses' Association Chapter 6. She is a member of Arizona Nurses' Association Political Action Committee and a member of the Nursing Research and Quality Improvement Committees at Phoenix Children's Hospital. Professionally, she holds memberships in the Arizona Nurses' Association, Sigma Theta Tau International, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, Western Institute of Nursing, Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science and the National League for Nursing. Her membership and contributions to both clinical and professional organization provide evidence of her commitment to her profession and her practice.

2010 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Clinical Practice 

     The 2010 honoree for Excellence in Clinical Practice is Angela Muzzy, RN, MSN, CCRN, Clinical Nurse Specialist at University Medical Center. Ms. Muzzy was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp, RN, MS, ACNS-BC, CCM. Ms. Muzzy’s area of clinical expertise is cardiovascular nursing. She is a role model in her facility for promoting collegial multidisciplinary care. Ms. Muzzy is recognized for her exemplary skills working with individual patients and their families. She incorporates evidence-based practice to promote the best outcomes possible for her patients. Angela, we thank you for consistently demonstrating outstanding clinical practice.

Excellence in Leadership  

     The 2010 award for Excellence in Leadership was given to Linda Wojtowicz, BSN, MS. Ms. Wojtowicz is Chief Operations Officer, Chief Nursing Officer at Tucson Medical Center. Ms. Wojtowicz was nominated by Peggy MacMacken, RN, Associate Administrator, Clinical Practice. Ms. Wojtowicz is a strong and visionary leader who has the respect and admiration of her organization’s executive leadership and nursing staff. Among her many accomplishments are enhanced support of nursing staff development at all levels, the implementation of shared governance decision-making and the creation of a unique Nursing Patio. Promoting Nursing professionalism. Congratulations Linda for your inspirational contributions to the care of patients and nurses in our community.

Excellence in Education  

     The 2010 winner for Excellence in Education is Robert Johnston, RN, MS, FNP-C, MBA. Mr. Johnston is a Clinical Nurse III at University Medical Center. Mr. Johnston was nominated by Jane Lacovara, RN-BC, MSN, CMSRN. Mr. Johnston was recognized for his work with education for liver transplant patients, IPOD applications for nursing students, and many other contributions to students and practicing nurses based on xx. Congratulations Bob and thank you for your dedication to excellence in nursing education in the classroom and at the bedside. Check Jane’s letter too.

Excellence in Research  

     The 2010 award for Excellence in Research goes to Kathleen Insel, PhD, RN, Associate Professor at The University of Arizona College of Nursing. Dr. Insel was nominated by Ki Moore, DNSc, RN, FAAN. Dr. Insel has maintained a funded program of research since 2000 with a focus on medication adherence among older adults in the community and biological phenomena associated with aging, cognition and medication management. Her research findings have made valuable contributions to science. Dr. Insel includes undergraduate and graduate students in her research, contributing to the development of new nurse scientists. Congratulations Kathie for your dedication to nursing science and the creation of knowledge about patient care.

Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment  

     Ms. Patricia Nolan Goldsmith, MS, PHCNS-BC, RN is the 2010 winner of the Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment. Ms. Goldsmith is a Clinical Assistant Professor at The University of Arizona College of Nursing. Ms. Goldsmith was nominated by Carrie Merkle, PhD, RN, FAAN. She was recognized for her attention to fair and inclusive treatment of all co-workers. This dedication has been demonstrated in her leadership in annual staff recognition events. Her positive, constructive manner is an outstanding example of managing multiple priorities and responsibilities. Patty, thank you for exemplifying principles of fairness and professionalism in all you do for your colleagues.

Nominations for the 2010 Awards of Distinction will be accepted up to February 14, 2011.

2009 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Clinical Practice 

     The recipient was Jane Lacovara, RN-BC, MSN, CMSRN, Clinical Nurse Specialist in Surgery at University Medical Center. Ms. Lacovara was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp, RN, MS, ACNS-BC, CCM. Ms. Lacovara excels in clinical care of surgical oncology patients, especially those with breast cancer. Patients love her for her kindness and tender loving care. In addition to providing direct care Ms. Lacovara promotes excellence in patient care in a number of ways. She promotes care based on evidence and research, conducts research, mentors nurses and other healthcare providers, is a published author, and participates in many hospital committees and community organizations. Congratulations, Jane, for your many contributions to your patients and the nursing profession!

Excellence in Leadership  

     The recipient was Carolyn Murdaugh, PhD, RN, FAAN, Professor and Interim Dean at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. Dr. Murdaugh was nominated by Kathleen May, DNSc, RN, PH-CNS-BC. Dr. Murdaugh assumed the leadership of the College of Nursing in 2008 when the Dean announced her retirement. During her tenure as Interim Dean, Dr. Murdaugh demonstrated a visionary approach to nursing and high standards of excellence. She challenged faculty to excel professionally and to create a cutting edge curriculum for students. In addition to the Interim Dean responsibilities, Dr. Murdaugh maintained her appointed role as Associate Dean for Research, mentoring and supporting faculty research endeavors. Her leadership was outstanding. Congratulations, Carolyn, on this well deserved recognition.

Excellence in Education  

     The recipient was Deborah Vincent, PhD, RN, FAANP, Associate Professor at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. Dr. Vincent was nominated by Judith Effken, PhD, RN, FACMI, FAAN. Dr. Vincent is a nurse practitioner with expertise in diabetes, economics, and healthcare systems. She was responsible for developing seven graduate courses on topics ranging from health policy and finance to technology in healthcare to healthcare work environments. Dr. Vincent has developed creative online courses which challenge students to solve real world problems. In addition to her mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students, Dr. Vincent has been a source of inspiration to pre-nursing students, , expanding their understanding of the roles and opportunities available to nurses. Congratulations Deborah. Our nursing community celebrates your accomplishments.

Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment  

     The recipient was Robin Sheperd, RN, BSN, MS from Carondelet St. Josephs’ Hospital. Ms. Sheperd was nominated by Vicki Quijada, RN, MSN. Ms. Sheperd has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the patient, whether an individual, a family, or a community. She continually reminds staff that patient care comes first. Her skills as a patient advocate are well known. Ms. Sheperd demonstrates her commitment to patient well-being by ensuring that patient-to-nurse ratios remain at a level that promotes safe care. She also displays a keen sense of fiduciary responsibility, encouraging staff to be good stewards of the hospital’s resources. Ms. Sheperd has served on the hospital’s ethics committee since 2005. She models ethical behavior and professionalism while keeping the patient’s dignity, worth and autonomy at the forefront of her work. Congratulations, Robin, on this well deserved recognition!

2008 Awards of Distinction

Excellence in Clinical Practice 

     The recipient of the 2008 International Nursing Honor Society, Sigma Theta Tau, Beta Mu Chapter Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice is Virginia LeBaron, MS, ACNP-BC, AOCN, ACHPN. Virginia was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp, Clinical Nurse Specialist at UMC. Ms. LeBaron is acknowledged for consistently demonstrating excellence in clinical practice by providing stellar patient care, especially regarding symptom management including pain control and communication with the medical team. Ms. LeBaron is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for patients and families dealing with end of life issues, and is an active member of the Palliative Care Team at University Medical Center. As a College of Nursing Faculty member, she is responsible for teaching students advanced practice knowledge, as well as serving as their preceptor. Ms. LeBaron has given numerous local, regional, national and international presentations on palliative care, and most recently developed the curriculum for a palliative care specialization within the Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Program at the University of Arizona, College of Nursing. A gifted clinician and leader, she has made a profound impact on her patients and their families. Congratulations, Virginia, for your many contributions to your patients and the nursing profession!

Excellence in Leadership  

     The recipient of the 2008 Beta Mu Excellence in Leadership Award is Carole Sheehan, RN, MA. Carole was nominated for this award by Diann Neal, RNC, MS. As the coordinator of Carondelet St. Joseph’s Perinatal Mood Disorder Program, Carole is acknowledged as the community founder and President of the Tucson Postpartum Depression Coalition. Her leadership has facilitated quality improvement of postpartum care provided in Arizona. She has provided visionary and innovative leadership to increase public awareness of perinatal mood disorders, provide a model for screening postpartum patients for depression, and mentoring other hospitals and agencies to screen patients and establish support groups in Tucson, Sierra Vista, Chandler, and other Phoenix area hospitals. She has brought hospitals and agencies together to share resources in providing support to this underserved population. Carole is an expert in her field and as such enhances the image of nursing through her professional achievements and consistent performance. Her depth of knowledge and experience in perinatal mood disorders led to an invitation to join the Department of Psychiatry, University of Arizona as an adjunct faculty member. Carole is a truly dedicated, talented, and accomplished nurse leader whom we proudly commend for her stellar work!

Excellence in Education  

     The recipient of the 2008 Beta Mu Award for Excellence in Education is Jeanne Fenn, RN, BC, MEd, CDE. She was nominated by Susan Bohnenkamp, Clinical Nurse Specialist at University Medical Center. Ms. Fenn excels in every aspect of teaching, with a special interest in diabetes and pediatric education. She developed an outstanding diabetes educational program for children and their families. Part of the program included scripting and presenting with a Girl Scout troop, a play entitled “The Evil Diana Betes vs. Sir Insulin Monk.” Other parts of the program included games and written information which bring awareness to children and their families about the risks and complications of diabetes. The presentations were aimed at elementary and middle school children, and are published in English, Spanish and Tohono O’Odham languages. Additionally, Ms. Fenn is a leader in the community-wide pediatric asthma project, and has helped many children who are scared and cannot breathe, progress to calm and comfortable breathing. Ms. Fenn undertakes large and complex projects with quiet elegance and gracefully sees them to the finish. She is a professional who is dedicated to helping nurses and patients develop and use strategies for dealing with illness that are not only practical and easy to implement, but also very creative. Congratulations, Jeanne. Our nursing community celebrates your accomplishments!

Excellence in Research  

     The recipient of the 2008 Beta Mu Award for Excellence in Research is Shu-Fen Wung, PhD, RN, FAAN. Dr. Wung was nominated for this award by Kathie Insel, PhD, RN. Dr. Wung’s research has focused on electrocardiographic changes particularly in additional posterior leads to improve the detection of posterior myocardial infarction. More recently, she is examining sex differences in symptom presentation and in pharmacologic management of acute coronary syndrome. Dr. Wung has authored or co-authored four monographs and chapters in texts related to cardiac nursing, ECG interpretation and cardiac rehabilitation. Her work is scholarly, her work ethic and research trajectory exemplary, as she disseminates her research findings at regional, national and international meetings. Her innovative studies and research findings have made, and will continue to make important contributions to the care of individuals with cardiovascular disease. Congratulations Dr. Wung, for your many accomplishments!

Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment  

     The recipient of the 2008 Beta Mu Award for Excellence in Ethical Behavior and Professional Commitment is Angela Muzzy, RN, MSN, CCRN. Ms. Muzzy courageously accepted the role of course chair following the 2003 tragic slaying of Cheryl McGaffie, Robin Rogers and Barbara Monroe. Not only did she carry herself, her students, and her colleagues through a difficult time, she did so while maintaining the highest standards of excellence. Ms. Muzzy’s professional commitment is also impressive. After returning from her active duty tour to care for soldiers injured in the Iraq War, she quickly organized a College of Nursing initiative to raise money to purchase phone cards so hospitalized soldiers could call their families. Additionally, she organized the College of Nursing holiday event to raise money and collect clothing and food for the Community Food Bank and Gospel Rescue Mission. Promoting ethical and safe practice of nursing students and contributing to the quality of life of others are inherent in her core values and professional commitment. Our community is truly blessed to have a nurse of Angie’s caliber working among us. Congratulations Angie, on this well deserved recognition! The 2008 Beta Mu Awards Committee was chaired by Peggy MacMacken, RN, MS, CNAA, BC, who would like to acknowledge the 2008 Awards Committee for their time, support and tireless effort in the review and selection process of this year’s winners. My sincere thanks to Lynda Gallagher, Ki Moore, Gail Priestley, Donna Zazworsky and Jill Arouzman.

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

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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