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Julia Balboni, Emerson Health
Julia was my nurse when I was admitted due to a very stressful and traumatic situation. I wasn’t exactly the kind of patient she was used to working with, and I’m also a very nervous patient. Julia wasn’t fazed at all. She made me feel at ease almost immediately.
She was kind and patient with me. She taught me how to move in ways that reduced my pain and constantly reassured me that there was no need to be embarrassed, that this was her job, and that she had seen it all. At one point, she recognized that what I really needed at that particular moment was sleep because I had been awake for well over 24 hours.
Julia is the kind of nurse every patient hopes to have.
Nominated by Erin Hathaway
Kathryn Castle, Emerson HealthKathy always shows compassion, integrity, and humor. Her patients and colleagues look up to both her expertise and her warm heart. She consistently goes above and beyond for her co-workers and patients; nothing is out of reach when she is on the case. Kathy is an amazing nurse who exhibits professionalism and offers a great listening ear when it’s needed. Thanks for all you do, Kathy!
Nominated by Anonymous
Katie Chrabascz, Emerson Health
In every aspect of her work, Katie goes above and beyond what is expected and is a true example of what it means to embody the core values of nursing. She consistently demonstrates an unparalleled level of compassion, skill, and dedication to every patient and colleague she encounters. Katie creates an environment where patients feel truly cared for and heard.
In addition to providing remarkable patient care, Katie is a natural leader and mentor. She exemplifies the qualities of a nurse that others strive to emulate. Katie consistently helps fellow team members — whether through sharing knowledge, offering support during challenging cases, or stepping in to lend a hand when the workload is heavy. She inspires others with her tireless work ethic and the joy she brings to the profession, even in the most difficult moments.
I feel incredibly lucky to work alongside such an amazing person.
Nominated by Elizabeth Froats
Heidi Felt, Clough Birthing Center, Emerson Health
There is nothing I can say other than that Heidi was amazing in every aspect of our daughter Adrianna’s birth. She was kind, compassionate, and calm, helping me when I needed her the most. Thank you for making the birth of my daughter memorable, and thank you for being you. We love you and are forever thankful!
Nominated by Caroline Raschko
Bridget Hogan, Emerson Health
Bridget and I work on the behavioral health unit. Some days go smoothly; however, many days are far from routine. Bridget always manages to keep a smile on her face and address each patient individually.
There have been many changes in our providers, and each comes in with a different insight on how the unit should be operated. Although this can be daunting at times, Bridget rises to the occasion and perseveres. She always meets each patient, as well as all of her team members, with the utmost respect. She is a true team player and is deserving of this honor.
Nominated by Janice Archer
Kalie King, Emerson Health
As a breast cancer surgery nurse in our practice, Kalie is always positive, reassuring, and encouraging with our patients. She always makes sure patients feel comfortable and goes the extra mile to help them with questions and coordination of care. We are grateful to work with her and to have her on our team.
Nominated by Elizaveta Ragulin Coyne
Melissa Roche, Emerson Health
Melissa does an amazing job as a charge nurse in the busy Emerson emergency department. She works diligently to keep the department moving efficiently, has the clinical acumen to recognize when patients need immediate attention, and maintains a great rapport with patients, other nurses, support staff, and physicians. We are so lucky to have her in our ER!
Nominated by Randy Kring
Rebecca Tessler, Emerson Health
Rebecca was my operating room nurse twice. The first procedure did not go as planned, and I was extremely nervous about having a second one. When I told her I was going back in for more surgery — and that I was mildly terrified about it this time — Rebecca was very firm in telling me that she would be there and that, this time, it would go well. She even held my hand while they put me under anesthesia. Not only is Rebecca a great nurse, but I am also privileged to call her my co-worker.
Kathleen Garofano, Exeter Hospital
Kathleen is a nurse of the utmost care and compassion. She consistently puts her patients’ well-being above herself and goes above and beyond when dealing with clinical or patient needs. She is always willing to lend a hand and assist with any knowledge-based questions, and she often helps those going through nursing school understand the required material. As both a nurse and a mom, she puts her whole heart and effort into everything she does.
Nominated by Kevin Tyler Garofano
Michele Pires, Exeter Hospital
I was diagnosed with stage 4 terminal cancer in August 2021. I entered my first chemo treatment with much trepidation, only to be put at ease by the care of my oncology nurse, Michele Pires. Since that first visit, I’ve had chemo treatments every other week (I’m now over 80 treatments in), and Michele has been my nurse throughout. Her knowledge and experience in her field were immediately evident, but what set Michele apart was her deep empathy and caring that went beyond just doing her job.
Everyone who works in the Center for Cancer Care at Exeter Hospital has been amazing, and I’d nominate them all if I could. But Michele has been my nurse for over three years, has taken such great care of me, and has put my mind at ease in so many scary situations that I would be remiss not to recognize her specifically.
I’ve been a musician and music teacher for many years, and the amazing care I’ve received from Michele and the rest of the staff has allowed me to continue performing and teaching music throughout all of this — which has been some of the best medicine. Michele Pires is at the top of her professional game and is a saint of a human being. She deserves to be celebrated for her dedication to her job and to her patients. She makes a very difficult time for me so much easier with how she conducts herself professionally and the down-to-earth, genuinely good person she is. Thank you, Michele. You’ve made a big difference to me with the care that you’ve given me over these three years. I appreciate you, and I’m so grateful for all you’ve done to make this journey as easy as possible for me. You’re the best!
Nominated by Les Harris
Anne Barry, Franciscan Children’s
Anne Barry is our director of behavioral health nursing, a field that historically has a high rate of burnout and turnover. Through the work Anne has done collaborating with leadership to provide mentorship to staff and to prioritize supporting staff in a challenging environment, our attrition rate has decreased to less than 8 percent, well below the industry standard. This has allowed for more experienced staff to be on the units to support one another, create a strong and collaborative culture, and promote safe, high-quality care for kids in mental health crises. Anne has done this with unwavering commitment to our patients and staff.
Her passion for supporting the mental wellness of our kids, the staff who care for them, and her colleagues is outstanding and unmatched from my perspective. We at Franciscan Children’s are fortunate to have an exceptional nurse leader in Anne Barry. Her impact on the nursing field, specifically in psychiatric nursing, has advanced and will continue to advance our practices and positive outcomes for patients.
Nominated by Elizabeth Smith
Mary Cusack, Franciscan Children’s
Mary started as an interim quality and safety nurse specialist and quickly took the role to a whole new level of excellence. She is highly organized and driven to maintain quality and safety across the organization. Mary exhibits integrity, compassion, and leadership in every interaction with staff, patients, and families. She successfully runs our daily safety briefing, keeping staff on task and following up on safety events that need to be resolved.
Mary has brought her compassion from floor nursing to the quality and safety nurse specialist role in that she is able to connect with staff members on a compassionate and understanding level when doing follow-ups around safety events.
She treats everyone with dignity and respect, always reminding staff members that we approach all quality and safety events with a systems view and not on a personal level. Mary embodies collaboration throughout the organization, as evidenced by her willingness to jump in and help throughout all areas of the hospital. She is always positive!
The medical units submit the majority of safety reports filed each day, and Mary is such a support to me in following up on certain situations. We meet constantly to track and trend safety data and bounce ideas off each other. I believe the Quality and Safety Department has come such a long way since Mary took on the role of quality nurse specialist, and I am excited to continue to work closely with her as we further improve the quality and safety of Franciscan Children’s under her leadership.
Shannon Donahue, Franciscan Children’s
Shannon is the embodiment of nursing excellence. I have had the privilege of watching Shannon evolve from the bedside to the charge role, to specializing in wound care and guiding the work around pressure injury prevention for our kids. Her work has resulted in a tremendous reduction in pressure injuries and has raised awareness of skin care issues related to tracheostomies, enteral tubes, and more.
Shannon is also a fierce advocate for patients and works tirelessly to raise safety issues and highlight ways to improve our processes to keep kids safe. She is a positive presence and brings empathy and warmth to all who meet her.
Thank you, Shannon, for living the mission of “so every kid can.”
Nominated by Mary Cusack
Julie Jankun, Franciscan Children’s
Our school nurse, Julie Jankun, and her therapy dog, Marcus, serve our special school population with excellent nursing care and critical emotional support. Our school is part of Franciscan Children’s and provides special education to students with significant complex medical and intellectual needs from more than 30 cities and towns across Massachusetts.
Julie and Marcus provide support not only to the children in our care but also to the staff across Kennedy Day School, the entire hospital, and beyond.
Julie has a calm demeanor, and Marcus is the sweetest dog. They have a calming and comforting effect on our students as they walk through the halls and visit classrooms. This team also helps with specific programming at Kennedy Day School, provides emotional support for blood draws in the hospital, and always stops to let children pet Marcus — bringing huge smiles to the kids’ faces.
Julie leads by example, mentoring a volunteer from Boston University who is studying to be a child life specialist. The student is studying the effects of nursing and therapy dogs, and she could not have a better example than Julie and Marcus!
Julie and Marcus quietly go about their work in the school each day, making a big impact on the children, families, and staff. We are so lucky to have them!
Nominated by Jeanne LaFauci
Julia Barbosa, Harbor Health Elder Service Plan/PACE
Julia has been my mom’s nurse practitioner for the past five years. She has been such a dedicated, caring provider to my mom as she progressed from Assisted Living to Memory Care in 2024.
Julia provides me with updates on a regular basis on Mom’s care, regarding everything from her medications to her glass eye care. As a nurse myself, I appreciate Julia’s expert care from head to toe for my mom. Her commitment to the highest quality of care for my mom is always evident.
Nominated by Susan Dailey
Dagmar Buckova, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Dagmar is a health care team’s dream nurse. She is the person providers and other nurses can always count on to have the answer or be able to find it. She is the one who will always stay late or go the extra distance in whatever way is needed.
I have worked with her for a few years on the skilled rehabilitation unit (I am a doctor). Dagmar knows how to provide excellent care to patients who are very sick, as well as emotional support for both the patients and their families. She has trained most of our best nurses. Whenever I think a certain nurse is terrific, it turns out Dagmar is the one who trained her and taught her excellent skills.
She makes a huge difference for all of us.
Nominated by Lauraine Davidson
Dagmar Buckova, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLifeDagmar goes above and beyond for her patients and their families. I have had the pleasure of working with her for four years. Dagmar is competent, kind, and always willing to help whenever needed. Dagmar shows commitment to each patient’s care. She is a great nurse and team member, and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with her.
Nominated by Joanne Peskowitz
Larysa Chou, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center Boston, Hebrew SeniorLife
Larysa Chou, nurse manager of 2 Berenson, displays exceptional professionalism and leadership. As a nurse manager, she consistently exemplifies the highest standards of care — not just for patients but also for her staff. Larysa is an outstanding leader with excellent communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills. She has an innate ability to handle complex situations with grace and ease while remaining a calm and supportive presence for her team.
Her dedication to fostering a collaborative, respectful environment has made a noticeable impact on the team. She actively listens to their concerns, provides timely feedback, and always ensures they feel supported. This open line of communication has helped create a positive, motivated team dynamic.
Additionally, her patient-centered approach ensures that every patient receives the highest quality of care. Her leadership has improved patient outcomes, and many patients express gratitude for her team’s professionalism and dedication. Her leadership inspires trust and confidence, and she is often seen as a role model. Her fairness, integrity, and unwavering support have earned her the respect of everyone on the team. Staff feel valued, empowered, and motivated under her leadership.
Nominated by Nadejda Iurii
Margaret Egbueze, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center Boston, Hebrew SeniorLife
Margaret Egbueze is compassionate, reliable, and respectful. She shows professionalism and always shows up with a smile and a positive attitude for every shift.
Nominated by Farah Destine
Contrina Glynn, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center Boston, Hebrew SeniorLife
Trina is a wonderful charge nurse who cares deeply about her patients. My mom is a long-time resident at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center Boston, and I have always trusted Trina to take excellent care of her. Not only does she go to extra lengths to ensure my mom’s safety, but she also takes extra time to make sure my mom is comfortable.
From my perspective, whenever I am concerned about anything, I know that I can call and talk to Trina, and she will know exactly what’s going on and provide reassurance that my mom is doing fine. Perhaps one of the most significant things is that Trina coordinates staffing so my mom has consistent people she can recognize and feel comfortable with. I am grateful for Trina’s compassion, understanding, and patience in dealing with everyday challenges.
Nominated by Sue Herzberg
Pearline Kirby, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center Boston, Hebrew SeniorLife
Pearline is a staff nurse who demonstrates exceptional patient care, advocacy, compassion, an outstanding work ethic, and, most of all, a desire to learn. She shows remarkable leadership qualities that guide the team effortlessly through the most stressful times.
For patients who have difficulty transitioning into long-term care, Pearline takes extra time to communicate the best strategies for the best possible outcomes with both the patients and staff. She is committed to professional growth and is always eager to learn a new skill and then share that knowledge with her co-workers. Pearline is a role model.
Nominated by Annette White
Gorrette Kyakulagira, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
In a time when health care staffing is in crisis, Gorrette has been present and flexible to support her fellow staff, the unit, and her patients. She is hardworking and has been recognized by nurse leaders for her excellent clinical skills. But more important than her hard work and clinical excellence is her incredible demeanor with patients and families.
Gorrette is kind and thoughtful, and her compassion and tenderness have led to recognition from numerous family members, patients, and co-workers. She has the ability to make patients feel safe and their loved ones feel reassured.
Nominated by Laura Hunt
Catherine LeVie, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Cathy has been a phenomenal support to her team and the unit over the past year. In the absence of a steady charge nurse, Cathy has stepped up and gone above and beyond. She has been flexible with her schedule to make sure that there is staff on duty. She remains calm in stressful situations and provides excellent communication to patients’ family members. She is also proactive in communicating with providers to make sure that patients get timely, high-quality care.
Finally, and most importantly, Cathy is a wonderful provider of care to patients with dementia. She is skilled at working with patients who have challenging behaviors — a skill that is critical when working with our geriatric population.
Lindsay Litcof, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Lindsay has such a warm and welcoming manner with patients, families, staff, and volunteers. She has a very calming and compassionate approach with our patients as well. It’s evident from watching her interactions with them that she cares about their well-being and sees them as unique individuals.
I’ve always appreciated that no matter how busy she is, she takes the time to support any questions or needs that come up with Life Enhancement staff. I’ve seen her do this with volunteers as well. One weekend, a per-diem staff member was alone facilitating a group, and a patient had a fall. He was really shaken up, and Lindsay did an amazing job of both attending to the patient and reassuring him.
Nominated by Jessica Rogan
Jean Michel, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Jean has been with Hebrew Rehabilitation Center (HRC) at NewBridge on the Charles since May 2009. I have had the honor and pleasure of working with Jean since October 2019 as his nurse manager. He has proven to be an exceptional nurse during this time. Jean upholds Hebrew SeniorLife’s cultural beliefs at all times, and it is evident in his practice.
Jean leads the way by being an advocate for his patients as well as his peers. He leads by example and keeps his patients’ well-being and safety at the forefront of his practice. This is also true for his peers — Jean always places their needs ahead of his own and uses teamwork to ensure the households run smoothly. He embodies everything that a nurse should be. He approaches all that he does with motivation, teamwork, and professionalism.
Jean is caring, compassionate, and a true professional. He is constantly looking for innovative ways to improve the care that he delivers to the seniors under his care and keep our team members engaged. He approaches everyone with respect, dignity, and compassion.
I constantly hear from family members that they can rest assured that their loved ones will be well cared for when Jean is working. He calmly educates them and ensures they understand the care being provided and the rationale behind it in a way that is easy to grasp.
Jean also strives to be a mentor for our newer nurses, patient care associates, and nursing students. He takes this on wholeheartedly, knowing that his impact on new staff helps ensure that the best care is given consistently and that we retain the talent we have. He is detail-oriented, motivated, and always looking for ways to continue to learn.
Nominated by Joseph Rodriguez
Emiliya Moraliyska, Center Communities of Brookline, Hebrew SeniorLife
Emiliya has been a rock star on the Brookline Housing Authority (BHA) team since her first day, and her dedication and exceptional work continue to shine daily. It’s hard to pick one specific story, but I’ll highlight one that shows her passion for helping people and never giving up — even against all odds.
Over the last year, the Right Care, Right Place, Right Time resident services team began to support a visually impaired resident at one of the BHA buildings. The team observed that the resident’s vision condition was likely contributing to social isolation; even during events or coffee hours, the resident remained quiet or seated alone. Through outreach conversations, Emiliya learned that the resident had made a few unsuccessful attempts to pursue cataract surgery. It was scheduled a few times, but due to mental health limitations and a lack of support from family or friends, the coordination and planning needed was just too complicated and the resident ended up canceling the surgery each time.
Emiliya fought to get every service in place to make the surgery happen, coordinating six different pre- and post-surgery appointments with the hospital and medical specialists within the resident’s health insurance network. This required coordinating transportation and an escort to each appointment and involved many agencies to cover the costs. Emiliya created a detailed schedule for the resident and the team to keep track of every appointment and who would be accompanying her. Past failure kept us all doubtful, but Emiliya was determined — and she did it — the resident finally had the cataract surgery! Upon visiting the resident the day after surgery, she noticed something different but could not put her finger on what it was right away. Eventually, she realized that she and the resident were making real eye contact for the first time.
The positive impact of this surgery in helping the resident be more connected to other people was immediate. The resident expressed, “I didn’t know until now that my aide had brown hair; I always thought they were blonde!”
She also supported this resident in following the strict pre- and post-surgery instructions and arranged for a visiting nurse agency to administer frequent eye drops before and after surgery.
The nurse care manager role is new in Hebrew SeniorLife housing, and Emiliya is a model we all look up to when we imagine what this role should be.
Nominated by Mimi Lewis and Effie Hathaway
Andrea Osuji, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Andrea has been working at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for 20 years. She embraces our Hebrew SeniorLife cultural beliefs every day she works — succeeding together, asking what matters, and speaking up. She lives these values in her efforts to deliver safe and quality care to our patients on the Memory Support Unit.
Andrea is a self-directed caregiver who focuses on asking what matters most to the patient before caring for them. As one of the primary nurses on the Memory Support Unit, Andrea models person-centered care by treating her patients with compassion, kindness, and dignity. Her proactive, professional, and calm approach has been extremely helpful in caring for patients with dementia.
Andrea collaborates with nursing and interdisciplinary team members, continuously advocating for her patients’ comfort and safety. She communicates her observations clearly and offers feedback and creative ideas to enhance patient care.
Andrea goes above and beyond and positively impacts the lives of our seniors with dementia every day she works. Families often express their appreciation for Andrea. Staff and patients value her willingness to help, and I look forward to seeing her professional growth in the nursing field.
Nominated by Lozel Greenwood
Meredine Pierre, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Meredine Pierre is a compassionate, conscientious, and committed professional registered nurse at Hebrew Rehabilitation Center. I am currently her nurse manager and have known Meredine for the past four years.
She is a soft-spoken individual who consistently demonstrates kindness and patience in caring for patients with behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia. She knows her strengths and her limitations. She does not shy away from her responsibilities and seeks advice and resources in a timely, proactive manner. She also holds her patient care associates accountable.
Meredine demonstrates clinical competency through effective communication with the nursing and medical team while advocating for her patients and maintaining their safety and comfort. Her calm demeanor and kindness on the night shift are deeply appreciated.
Anna Qiu, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Anna is the model of what a team wishes a charge nurse to be. She is thoughtful, detail-oriented, conscientious, and caring. A critical thinker and a true innovator, Anna is always thinking outside the box to meet the needs of the patients and her team.
She is able to divide and conquer team duties but does not just delegate — she engages with the team and helps them in real time. She is a true teacher and is willing to work with her nurses and nursing assistants to provide on-the-floor education. She holds both the team and herself accountable to a high standard of care.
She is the kind of charge nurse you wish you had more of.
Delaney Roberson, Center Communities of Brookline, Hebrew SeniorLife
Delaney always helps me with any medical questions I have for residents. She goes above and beyond, visiting them whenever I ask her to. She is a phenomenal nurse and an exceptional colleague. She is such an asset to our team, and we are lucky to have her!
Nominated by Molly Rose
Joseph Rodriguez, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center at NewBridge on the Charles, Hebrew SeniorLife
Joe is, in short, an incredible nurse manager. He is a constant presence, moving quietly through the units and talking with team members and patients. And while he is quiet, he is truly a presence.
As a testament to his support and leadership, his entire clinical team — through their own motivation and planning — hosted a surprise gathering to celebrate Joe and his leadership. Numerous staff members spoke at this event on his behalf about how he holds them accountable while providing support — not an easy balance for a leader.
I wish to recognize the amazing work that Joe has done to truly care for and support a team of caregivers so that they can, in turn, care for their patients. Thank you, Joe!
Nominated by Sarah Sjostrom
Arbilda Caraballo, Holy Family Hospital, Methuen
Arbilda received my son, Angel, at the emergency department (ED) and went above and beyond to make sure he was comfortable. She went directly to the doctors to make sure pain medication was ordered and provided in a timely manner and provided a warm blanket and a calming presence when anxiety was high due to the pain he was going through.
She demonstrated clinical competency through her thorough assessment of Angel’s condition, coordinating a phone call between an ED provider and a specialist. She advocated for Angel by navigating complex health care systems to secure the necessary specialist appointment. I can see that she genuinely loves what she does.
I want to thank her for helping me through such a scary time and for all the attention she provided to my son and me.
Nominated by Michelle Tueros
Paula Aufiero, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
Paula is the exceptional nurse leader of the Hospital at Home program. Since before the program’s inception, Paula’s dedication to this model of care has been unwavering, and she has grown her team quickly to serve the growing program. Hospital at Home requires unique flexibility, and Paula is always willing to go the extra mile for a patient and find ways to ensure that all of our patients get the care they need (and more).
Paula is also very sensitive to the needs of her staff and supports their well-being as a top priority. While she has been in many leadership roles for many years, she is always ready to jump in and care for patients directly whenever needed, truly leading by example.
Humility and flexibility are characteristics of some of the best leaders. Until a person has worked in the Home at Hospital model, it’s impossible to understand the unique approach required to deliver optimal care to acutely ill patients in their homes. Every day, Paula and her team of nurses flexibly support patients so they can heal in the comfort of the place they call home, with family members, pets, photos, and other cherished supports.
Our whole team is grateful for Paula’s efforts, which do not go unnoticed any day but are under-celebrated. Please join us in thanking and celebrating Paula for her leadership and achievements. Without her, there would be no Hospital at Home program in our system.
Nominated by Susan Stempek
Gertrude Beray, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
Gertrude “Trude” Beray is an excellent nurse. She has continuously gone above and beyond for patients since starting her journey here at Lahey. During our time together on 6 West, and then the 6W progressive care unit, Trude has provided a holistic approach to patient care. Upon her transition to the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) and cardiothoracic intensive care unit (CTICU), she has maintained this holistic approach, adding compassion and empathy to her care.
Staff have encountered patients and their families who mention Trude by name due to her lasting impact on their recovery. Trude is always either ambulating a patient, washing their hair, or shaving them. I have not encountered a time when Trude is sitting. She cares for her patients and then goes around and assists her colleagues with their care.
Multiple cards we’ve received in the unit discuss and thank Trude for her amazing care. Thank you for being part of our SICU and CTICU family, Trude.
Nominated by Cynthia Gomez
Lynn Gounaris, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
Lynn is always such an amazing person to work with. She is truly a blessing to everyone. She’s always checking in on others to make sure they are doing okay and not feeling overwhelmed. She’s so caring and always has the patient’s best interest at heart. We all look up to her and aspire to be even half the human she is. Lahey is lucky to have her!
Nominated by Julya Morris
Janie Guillemette, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
I called 911 and found myself at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington, Mass., again with my 88-year-old father. As a nurse myself, I knew this time felt different, as his health had been declining. After 30 hours of intensive medical care, our family made the heart-wrenching decision to transition to comfort care.
On day seven of my father’s hospitalization, we met Janie Guillemette. Words cannot express how grateful we were to have Janie caring not only for our father but for our family as well in the last days of his life.
Janie went above and beyond on her busy weekend shifts to sit at my father’s bedside, educating us on end-of-life care and what to expect. She listened, offered support and guidance, and focused on his comfort. Janie treated our father with respect as she got him ready for his next journey: bathing him, putting his favorite shirt on, and encouraging us to play music, talk to him, and surround him with things he loved.
Thank you, Janie, for your compassion, empathy, kindness, and passion for end-of-life care. We are forever grateful for your calm, caring touch and presence and exceptional nursing care during the recent loss of our father.
Nominated by Patricia Shelmire
Cheryl Matthews, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center
Cheryl Matthews is a wonderful person with whom I have had the pleasure of working for many years. She has taken on the charge nurse role in the Lahey Burlington emergency department during nights. She has been a consistent, strong advocate for her patients and her colleagues.
During COVID, she handled the stress and pressure of this pandemic with grace, always looking for solutions and ways to improve the situation. I have always been able to come to her with questions or concerns, and she has always looked for a way to fix the problem.
Despite the surge of patients in the hospital emergency department, she makes an effort to ensure that the patients receive individual care and attention regardless of the time of night or day. She is an inspiration and a wonderful person whom I am happy to call a friend and a colleague.
Nominated by Hezi Jakobi
Linda Sullivan, Lahey Medical Center, Peabody
Linda is relentless as an advocate for patients in general internal medicine. She will call pharmacies, visiting nurses, or next of kin to secure the appropriate coverage for medications, supplies, or services. Her clinical acumen is fantastic, and patients are always grateful for their interactions with her.
Nominated by Anita Erler
Nancy Phoenix Bittner, Lawrence Memorial/Regis College
Nancy Phoenix Bittner has significantly impacted the field of nursing education as vice president for education at Lawrence Memorial/Regis College (LMRC) nursing and radiography programs since 2012. Her exceptional leadership is complemented by her kindness and compassion, qualities that have endeared her to both students and colleagues.
As a dedicated advocate for nursing education, Nancy inspires her students to strive for excellence in their pursuit of a career in nursing. With her extensive experience as a critical care nurse specialist, she is not only knowledgeable in her field but also a respected mentor to nursing education professionals both at LMRC and on a national level. Her commitment to fostering the next generation of nurses reflects her profound dedication to the profession and her belief in the importance of high-quality health care education.
Nancy possesses a clear vision for the future of nursing education, focusing on preparing students for the challenges and changes in health care and ensuring they receive the support to succeed.
In addition, Nancy’s commitment to community service, both locally and internationally, is commendable. Her outreach not only helps those in need but also fosters compassion and understanding across different cultures.
By prioritizing integrity and evidence-based practices, Nancy is a role model for future nursing leaders and health care professionals. I salute her!
Nominated by Kimberly Phillips
Randall Bomba, Lowell General Hospital
With more than 20 years of dedicated service, Randall has become a pillar of excellence in our hospital. His unwavering compassion, clinical expertise, and kindness set him apart as not just an outstanding nurse but also a truly remarkable human being.
Randall’s patients consistently praise his comforting presence, gentle care, and ability to make even the most anxious individuals feel at ease. He treats every patient and family member with empathy and respect, ensuring they feel heard and supported throughout their care journey. His ability to build genuine connections has made him beloved by both those he serves and colleagues throughout the hospital.
Beyond his professional excellence, Randall is also a devoted husband and father of two, balancing his demanding career with grace and dedication to his family. His ability to bring warmth, humor, and compassion into his work every day is an inspiration to all who have the privilege of working with him.
Randall embodies the true spirit of nursing: selfless, skilled, and wholeheartedly committed to making a difference in the lives of others. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Tatenda Bomba
Michelle Ford, Lowell General Hospital
Our substance use disorder patients often encounter stigma when they seek treatment — but never with Michelle. While others, even health care workers, may see just a “junkie” or a “drunk,” Michelle always sees the person. She’s kind and supportive and can make our patients smile, even on their worst day. Our patients all know her by name because she leaves such an impression, and they look forward to seeing her.
Michelle is a strong advocate for reducing stigma against people with substance use disorders, especially in medicine, and often goes to events to raise awareness in her free time. She’s always cheering our patients on through recovery and offering support if they stumble. Michelle is a warm, caring individual who is always quick with a joke or smile that brightens your day. She shows such compassion when others don’t.
Even when we have patients who behave poorly, she stays calm and shows kindness. We once had an unruly patient who was angry and swearing at staff. In less than five minutes, Michelle had him laughing, smiling, and thanking her profusely for helping him.
Of all the nurses I’ve worked with, Michelle Ford is one of the most compassionate and inspiring. She makes the world a better place.
Nominated by Morgan Payne
Elizabeth Paquette, Malden Catholic High School
Nurse Elizabeth Paquette has been the director of health services and a nurse at Malden Catholic for many years. Our family met her after my son had a grand mal seizure only a few weeks into his freshman year in September 2023. It was such a scary time for our family, but nurse Paquette provided amazing support.
From the initial phone call to follow-ups to see how Derek was doing to communicating directly with Derek’s care teams — at our pediatrician’s office and two hospitals — she was simply outstanding. Derek had several more seizures at school last year, but she was always there to lend an ear and help in any way possible. In uncertain times, it was reassuring to know she was at the school with him.
I feel school nurses are often overlooked in the nursing world. Our school is lucky to have someone so calm, thorough, and intelligent!
Nominated by Maura Mann
Sharon Brown, Marathon Nursing
I have a 14-year-old, medically-complex son. Sharon came to help our family as a nurse for Jayden in 2022 when there was a shortage of nurses and families were struggling. She is skilled as a dual RN and respiratory therapist, which has been invaluable during periods of respiratory illnesses.
She is compassionate and loves our nonverbal son. She fiercely advocates for his needs when accompanying him to school and when working with other medical providers. Families such as ours would never be able to function, go to work, or keep our complex kids healthy at home without nurses like Sharon. Home care nurses are invaluable. And we are eternally grateful for Sharon.
Nominated by Juliet Ochura
Trenton Cano, Marathon Nursing
Trenton’s journey in home care began as a nursing student at Merrimack College, where he completed a clinical rotation with my daughter. His passion for home nursing was so profound that he committed to three years as a full-time nurse with Marathon Nursing, a home care agency based in Braintree, Mass.
Trenton has become an indispensable part of our care team, working overnight shifts, covering for colleagues, and ensuring seamless care coordination. Despite living an hour away in Worcester, he never hesitates to step in when needed. More than a dedicated caregiver, he also manages scheduling for 21 nurses and eight student clinical rotations every month, a feat that keeps our daughter’s care uninterrupted.
At a time when only about 40 percent of Medicaid private duty nursing hours are being filled, Trenton has ensured that 100 percent of my daughter’s nursing hours are covered. Because of him, she can attend school, be with her friends, and remain safe through the night — things many take for granted but are life-changing for families like ours. His commitment has given our family the rare gift of peace of mind and rest.
Trenton could work at any hospital or clinic closer to home, yet he chooses home care because he believes in the profound impact of direct patient care. His dedication, reliability, and compassion make him more than just a nurse; he is a lifeline for our family.
Nominated by Dawn Oates
Farah Louis, Marathon Nursing
Farah has been my daughter’s home nurse for four years. My daughter was diagnosed with a severe airway disorder at 2 months old. Upon discharge, and when attempting to find a home nurse, several declined the case as I was currently homeless and living in a shelter.
In my first interaction with Farah, I immediately knew she was the one. The level of nurturing she displayed for my baby told me she was the right fit. She also has superb knowledge of my daughter’s condition, looks for the answer when she’s not sure, and just goes above and beyond to ensure my daughter is well cared for, happy, and safe. Farah is the epitome of what all home nurses should be.
Nominated by Ashlee Fields
Brian Craig, Martha’s Vineyard Hospital
I would like to salute Brian Craig! On a daily basis, Brian provides remarkably compassionate and competent care to ER patients at Martha’s Vineyard Hospital (MVH). Brian is professional and sincere in determining the needs of his patients. Brian’s kind, calm presence has soothed many frightened and anxious patients who arrived at the hospital in a state of panic. Brian is a kind soul to both patients and co-workers and is an outstanding asset to MVH.
Nominated by Karen Ferreira
Caitlin Catania, Mass Eye and Ear
Caitlin took care of our daughter Ella last year for an entire week. Ella was hospitalized with a very rare autoimmune disorder that was extremely serious, scary, and unknown. It was by far the most frightening time of our lives. And when I say she took care of my daughter — well, she took care of us, too. My husband and I have the utmost gratitude for Caitlin and the care she provided to our daughter, Ella. She showed dedication, compassion, and a genuine warmth that made a profound impact on our family during a challenging time.
From the first time we met Caitlin, she demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with Ella, not just as a patient but as a person. She always took the time to explain things to her, answer any questions, and, most importantly, make her feel safe and comfortable, even when she was scared and in pain. Her attentiveness to not only Ella’s needs but our needs as parents went far beyond the typical duties of a nurse. She would sit with us at all hours of the night, come in any time we called, and work really hard to try to find different ways to ease Ella’s pain. Caitlin was by both Ella’s side and mine endlessly.
I will never forget the day Ella had to have a three-hour MRI. She was scared. I was scared. She was in pain, and there was nothing I could do to help her. Caitlin came in for her shift about halfway through her MRI, and I just fell into her arms sobbing, scared for my baby and scared for what they would find. She was there with open arms, no judgment, crying with me, reassuring me, and comforting me. That compassion, support, and care made one of the scariest times of our lives feel less scary. I was grateful for her exceptional care and ability to calm and encourage Ella during difficult procedures and nights, as well as for her ability to calm and encourage us as parents. She advocated for Ella in ways that we, as parents, advocate for our own children. We will forever be eternally grateful for Caitlin coming into our lives at just the right time.
Nominated by Melissa Comeau
Olivia Deluca, Mass Eye and Ear
Olivia has been such an asset to Mass Eye and Ear. I have known her for nearly four years and have been so genuinely impressed by her throughout that time. Her dedication to patients and colleagues is commendable.
I often see her stepping in to cross-cover when needed, whether triaging patients in the surgical preoperative area, assisting in the operating room as a scrub technician or circulator, or helping discharge patients in the postoperative area.
She was recently promoted to clinical manager of the sixth-floor Surgicenter and has really risen to fulfill the responsibilities of the role early in her nursing career. I always see her advocating for her staff, providing constructive feedback when needed, and ensuring all patients are well taken care of. Patient care is her number one priority.
As a physician, I know I can always turn to her for help or support in any situation.
Congratulations on all your hard work, Olivia!
Nominated by Nandini Venkateswaran
Lauren Aloisio, Massachusetts General Hospital
From the moment I met Lauren, I knew she was someone special. Even with a COVID mask, I could tell she was smiling because her kindness shone through. She immediately introduced herself to me and my mom, making us feel at ease. She asked me about the things I love, giving me space to share my passion for video games and my work as a skills trainer for children with autism. That simple act helped me feel more relaxed during such an overwhelming time.
Lauren didn’t just provide exceptional medical care — she took the time to get to know me as a person. Throughout my treatments, she shared her own journey with cancer, which gave me hope and reminded me that I wasn’t alone. Her empathy and understanding helped me through some of my most challenging moments.
One of my favorite memories is when Lauren surprised me with a Cookie Monster cancer cap after learning how much I loved the Cookie Monster. She always remembered the little things that brought me joy. Lauren even decorated my fluid backpack with a Cookie Monster sign and left a personal note, showing just how much she cared. She went above and beyond by nominating me for the Caring for a Cure program, bringing moments of joy to my family and me when we needed it most.
Lauren’s constant encouragement, kindness, and genuine care made my sarcoma journey more bearable. On my last day of chemotherapy, she celebrated with me and my family, making the moment even more meaningful. Her unwavering support and dedication to her patients exemplify what it means to be a compassionate caregiver.
Nominated by Jonathan Gardner
Maria Avelar, Massachusetts General Hospital
I met Maria Avelar in January 2023, when I was formally introduced as the administrative manager of the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Chelsea HealthCare Center Adult Medicine practice. At the time, she was the team leader for the nursing staff. Although she had only been hired as a staff nurse a few months earlier, she quickly demonstrated exceptional clinical and managerial skills, leading to her well-deserved promotion to team lead.
Maria brought a wealth of knowledge from her previous role at the Beth Israel Lahey Health system, where she was a high performer in their inpatient unit. The professionalism and efficiency she brings to work every day have made a lasting impact on our practice, one that serves as an example not only for her fellow nurses but also for colleagues across all roles.
When we learned in late fall of 2024 that our all-star nurse manager would be leaving, no one panicked. That’s because everyone knew Maria was ready to step in, just as she had done seamlessly on multiple occasions. Fortunately for us, she accepted the role, and as expected, we haven’t missed a beat. She is now serving as the interim nurse manager of the practice, and more than anyone, her colleagues are eagerly awaiting the moment she is officially named to the position.
I am honored to formally nominate Maria on behalf of MGH Chelsea Adult Medicine for this recognition because we all wholeheartedly believe she deserves it.
Nominated by Silvestre Valdez
Alexandra Bischoff, Massachusetts General Hospital
I would like to take a moment to recognize and express my sincere appreciation for Alex’s exceptional dedication, hard work, and compassionate care. As the only full-time nurse and primary coordinator on the neurosurgery referral department’s access team, she works relentlessly five days a week to ensure that patients receive the guidance and support they need.
Alex plays a vital role in helping patients navigate their consultations and referrals, often going above and beyond by reaching out to multiple providers to ensure seamless coordination. Her ability to actively listen to patients’ concerns and respond promptly has made a significant difference in their experience, helping many establish care with the appropriate surgeons tailored to their needs.
Beyond her impact on patients, Alex is an invaluable asset to our department. Her prompt responses and diligent follow-ups keep the referral process running smoothly, ensuring efficiency and continuity of care. Her critical thinking skills, combined with her unwavering dedication, have positively influenced both our patients and our team.
It is clear that Alex’s contributions go far beyond her job description. She has touched the lives of many patients and made a lasting impact on the neurosurgery referral process. Her hard work, commitment, and compassionate approach deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
Thank you, Alex, for everything you do. You truly make a difference every day.
Nominated by Blerta Balla
Anna Brawley, Massachusetts General Hospital
Anna leads the clinical staff and manages the clinical operations of the Churchill Surgical Clinic at Massachusetts General Hospital. She coordinates care for complex trauma patients, performs postoperative calls for multiple surgeons, and triages urgent calls, among many other responsibilities.
Two recent accomplishments that are all in a day’s work for Anna: She coordinated the complex wound care and surgery planning of a patient at a correctional facility and met with the medical director there to advocate for better total parenteral nutrition management for the patient. And she assisted a patient over the phone who had developed a mucus plug in her gastrostomy tube, staying on the line with her until EMTs arrived at the patient’s home.
Anna is an extraordinary leader who helps patients stay out of the emergency department every day through her efforts.
Nominated by Jawad Tariq
Stephanie Cameron, Massachusetts General Hospital
Stephanie exemplifies the true spirit of nursing through her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to providing exceptional care to her patients.
Stephanie’s journey into nursing is a testament to her character and determination. As a recent nursing school graduate, she has seamlessly transitioned into her role, demonstrating both skill and empathy that exceed her years of experience. She treats every patient with dignity and respect, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and cared for during some of their most vulnerable moments.
What sets Stephanie apart is her ability to connect with patients and their families. Whether offering a listening ear, a reassuring smile, or going the extra mile to ensure comfort, she creates an environment of trust and healing. Her colleagues frequently commend her for her teamwork and positivity, which uplift those around her.
Stephanie is not only a skilled professional but also a natural caregiver whose passion for nursing shines through in everything she does. She embodies the essence of compassionate care, making her a true asset to the nursing community and an inspiration to all who work alongside her. She is a shining example of why nurses are the backbone of health care.
Nominated by Kaitlin McGovern
Sam Cimino, Massachusetts General Hospital
We were lucky enough to have Sam as our nurse for the majority of my admission following the C-section delivery of my first baby. As a nurse myself, I immediately recognized Sam’s expert level of clinical expertise, but I was truly impressed to learn that she was also a certified lactation consultant. What a gift to her patients and a testament to her passion and dedication to holistically caring for both mothers and babies.
When I recall a particular moment with Sam during my admission, I think of the quote from Isabel Hampton Robb: “Nurses are trusted with the most precious thing on earth: the life, health, and happiness of other human beings.”
My husband and I limited visitors to the hospital, both because of respiratory virus season and to allow us the time and space to bond with our daughter. My very best friend was one of the few visitors who came to see me one afternoon. My milk had come in overnight, and I was struggling with oversupply, which was causing challenges for breastfeeding and discomfort due to engorgement.
Sam came in and sat with us. She quietly and gently helped with nursing and massaging painful clogged milk ducts while I filled my cup with a visit from my best friend. As I recall, this was toward the end of her shift, and I know she certainly could have used the time to chart and wrap up for the day. However, the support she gave me allowed me to have this priceless visit. It is a memory I will always cherish.
I hope to pay forward the sincere kindness that Sam showed me. In my own career and nursing journey, I’ve been asked many times, “What is a nurse?” I would now answer with this story about Sam.
Nominated by Emily Comstock
Erin Clampffer, Massachusetts General Hospital
Erin is a beacon of hope, a font of knowledge, and a stalwart support to hundreds of people facing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). She is one of the nurses in the Mass General Brigham ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic. In the clinic, Erin meets people with ALS and their families to further explain their diagnosis, provide them with resources, explain results, or provide the comfort of a wise care provider.
It’s between visits when Erin’s star shines brightest. People contact the clinic with symptoms, questions, and fears of all kinds. ALS affects nearly every part of a person’s function — and Erin is always responsive, thoughtful, and supportive. She helps address symptoms, ensures people get connected to research opportunities, and provides much-needed emotional support. She saves lives with her knowledge and intuition, helping people access the urgent care they need. Her clinical skills and personal warmth are truly unparalleled.
As a physician in the clinic, I have the joy of working alongside Erin every day, and I hear again and again how much she means to our patients and all the ways she provides hope and light to those who need it most.
Nominated by James Berry
Kristi Emerson, Massachusetts General Hospital
Kristi Emerson brings care and compassion to every interaction and helps every patient she interacts with find strategies for recovery.
As a neurorecovery nurse and research nurse at the Massachusetts General Hospital Center for Neurotechnology and Neurorecovery, she works every day with patients with neurological disease or injury, helping patients and the families of people with stroke, spinal cord injury, ALS, and other neurological disorders to learn more about ongoing research.
Kristi is a tireless advocate for the amazing people who enroll in research studies not only for their own benefit but also to help other people.
Nominated by Leigh Hochberg
Kristi Emerson is our nurse in the NeuroRecovery Clinic. She provides care for patients with acute neurologic injuries across the continuum of care, often starting during hospitalization and continuing into the outpatient clinic.
In this role, Kristi tirelessly coordinates and delivers care for patients from all walks of life. Her energy is boundless, and she is always willing to take on the varied tasks that her role demands, whether responding to patient needs or helping providers in the clinic.
She follows and advocates for neurologic patients from the time of their injury into the recovery phase, a truly unique role. Our program and patients are very lucky to work with her.
Nominated by David Lin
Kristi Emerson is the nurse caring for our patients recovering from critical neurology illnesses in our NeuroRecovery Clinic following neuroscience intensive care unit (Neuro-ICU) care.
She works with patients to educate them, understand their needs, help them navigate challenging medical scenarios, and support them as they cope with recovery.
We salute her every day — but today, we salute her in The Globe.
Thank you, Kristi!
Nominated by Eric Rosenthal
Kristi is one of the best nurses I have ever worked with. She responds to all patient requests within minutes of their messages and coordinates care seamlessly with physicians. Her dedication to going above and beyond for her patients is awe-inspiring.
One day after a clinic visit, a patient who resides at a nursing facility had no transportation. Kristi waited for two hours after the clinic closed to stay with the patient and ensure their safety, even though it was not her responsibility.
She is so kind, and I love working with her!
Nominated by Nirupama Yechoor
Stephanie Gaston, Massachusetts General Hospital
I have been privileged to work with Stephanie (Autumn) Gaston in the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies, the research unit treating oncology patients participating in clinical trials for cancer treatment development at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH).
Autumn is a capable, knowledgeable, and skilled oncology nurse who consistently attends to patients’ emotional and spiritual needs, as well as their physical care. Autumn immediately puts patients at ease, making them feel cared for, cared about, and understood in their unique humanity.
While consistently providing expert nursing care, Autumn also demonstrates her thorough knowledge of medical research practices, ensuring the reliability and validity of data obtained from each patient’s experience with a study drug. Her work directly contributes to the development of effective new oncology therapies for future generations of patients.
Autumn is recognized as an important leader in the oncology research unit, and she is a critical resource for nursing care and research processes. Her colleagues, such as myself, grow in our own practices daily through her presence.
Not only is she knowledgeable and capable, but she also has an endearing sense of humor that fosters learning and growth in patients and professional colleagues alike and diffuses anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being throughout the unit.
The MGH research unit for oncology therapies is blessed to have Autumn on its team. The patients benefit directly and indirectly from her research nursing expertise, and the multidisciplinary staff are stronger clinicians due to her presence.
Nominated by Elizabeth Johnson
Sandy Greene, Massachusetts General Hospital
I salute Sandy for her dedication to everyday excellence in patient care. As the operating room (OR) team leader for pediatric and burn surgery, Sandy goes above and beyond to ensure that every patient has the best possible surgical experience at Massachusetts General Hospital.
The behind-the-scenes planning and coordination for surgery is immense, and there is no one more devoted to making sure everything runs smoothly than Sandy. She is a tremendous support and resource to the nursing, anesthesia, and surgical teams in the OR. Her diligence and clinical expertise make an incredible difference.
Nominated by Alissa Cameron
Judianne Henderson, Massachusetts General Hospital
When I was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma and being treated at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, there was a time when I needed IV fluids at home between treatments. My family and I struggled to find a nurse who could come to our house to access my port. One of the most selfless acts I experienced during my cancer journey came from nurse Judianne. Without hesitation, she stepped in to help when no one else could.
After long days working in Boston, Judianne volunteered her time to come to my home and access my port, allowing me to rest and recover at home instead of having to travel back and forth to the hospital. She did all of this without pay — simply because she wanted what was best for me. Her care, kindness, and dedication made a significant impact during an incredibly challenging time.
Judianne’s support went beyond medical care. She always offered words of encouragement that lifted my spirits and reminded me how much my nurses cared for me as a person. I’ll never forget when she told me, “Jonathan, we are here for your physical well-being and to support you emotionally as well. We all love you and are going to work together to make you completely well.” Those words stayed with me and gave me strength.
Judianne gave me the precious gift of being able to spend time at home when I needed it most. She holds a special place in my heart, and my family and I love her dearly. Today, when I return to MGH every six months for follow-ups, I look forward to seeing my entire sarcoma care team. They are like family to me, and Judianne’s unwavering support is a big reason why.
Lori Hooley, Massachusetts General Hospital
Lori has been part of the Massachusetts General Hospital family for more than 20 years. I wanted to recognize Lori because I felt compelled to celebrate her with others. She is a nurse who exemplifies leadership, compassion, patient advocacy, and mentorship.
Lori is a pioneer in the field of treatment of substance use disorder (SUD) in the community setting. She is an expert clinician who cares for this patient population, which unfortunately remains large.
Over the past 10 years, she has created and implemented a group-visit model with nursing as the lead, which is quickly becoming a standard at other facilities. Lori tirelessly advocates for her patients. Our health center was one of the first to offer Sublocade and now Brixadi — innovative treatments for SUD patients — with great success.
Lori also partnered with one of the providers at Charlestown HealthCare Center to win a grant that launched a weekly SUD women’s group. This group has seen great success, offering education for the whole patient: dermatology, fitness, nutrition, women’s health, and more. Lori takes community health to the next level in this group, thoughtfully leveraging the many resources in the building.
Lori is consistently forging a path for future nurses interested in the care of substance use disorder patients. I am proud to call her a friend and a colleague!
Nominated by Tracy Waterhouse
Christina Kim, Massachusetts General Hospital
I was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in April 2021. My family and I were overwhelmed with fear and uncertainty, but from the very first phone call, nurse Christina was there — providing not only expert medical care but also emotional reassurance. She became our “translator,” explaining complex medical terms in ways we could easily understand. Her patience and empathy turned what could have been an overwhelming experience into one where we felt informed, supported, and cared for.
Throughout my treatment, nurse Christina went above and beyond. She answered countless questions from my very nervous mom, always with kindness and promptness, never making us feel like a burden. She built trust with my entire family and continues to do so, even now that I am a three-year survivor. Christina’s ability to form genuine connections with her patients is a testament to her compassionate nature and professionalism.
One of the most memorable things Christina did for me was adapting the traditional pain scale to something that made sense to me as a person who happens to have autism. The typical smiley face chart didn’t work for me, so Christina personalized it using something I love: video games. She created a pain scale based on how long I could play video games, making it easier for me to communicate my pain levels. This thoughtful adaptation showed how much she cared about my individual needs and made my treatment journey less daunting.
Christina has always made it clear that her care extends beyond my cancer treatment. She once told me, “I am not just part of your team through your cancer journey, but I am here for your lifelong journey.” Even now, as I return for follow-up scans, I know she is still by my side, offering support, encouragement, and reassurance.
Maura Mahar, Massachusetts General Hospital
My husband suffered from a brain tumor and multiple sclerosis. Maura not only cared for him weekly at the cancer center but she also checked in with members of our family, who were all impacted by this dreadful illness that eventually took my husband’s life. Her compassion, humor, and love got us through some very difficult days.
Nominated by Sally Shuman
Meg Mahnks, Massachusetts General Hospital
Meg is an exemplary nurse and colleague. As a melanoma nurse, she shares her compassion, empathy, and advocacy throughout our practice on a daily basis.
A recent moment that comes to mind involved a patient being seen in the clinic urgently for treatment-related side effects. Meg jumped in without hesitation, assisting with administering IV fluids and antiemetics and providing a listening ear to the patient and his family.
She has a way of making each of our patients feel heard, well cared for, and supported. Her superb clinical skills and warm spirit allow us to provide urgent medical care for our patients on a regular basis. She is calm in emergency situations and genuinely warmhearted. In every way, she exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional oncology nurse.
Nominated by Alexandra Sorrentino
Flannery McEvoy, Massachusetts General Hospital
Flannery is a seasoned nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital, serving as a staff nurse, resource nurse, and attending nurse on Ellison 12 – a general medicine unit. Her journey is inspiring, having started as a patient care associate (PCA) on the same unit where she is now a leader and mentor.
Flannery is an exceptional clinician, known for her expertise, professionalism, and commitment to patient care. She fosters a collaborative work environment where both new graduates and experienced nurses feel supported. Her ability to connect with patients, advocate for their needs, and provide compassionate care is remarkable.
I want to recognize Flannery’s quick action during a patient code at shift change. Performing chest compressions for the first time, her immediate response was critical in achieving a return of spontaneous circulation. Her composure and strong clinical skills left a lasting impression on her colleagues, especially the novice nurses who look up to her as a role model.
Additionally, Flannery’s participation in the PCA training program showcased her dedication to mentorship. Her unique perspective, having progressed from PCA to attending nurse, was invaluable in shaping the learning experience.
Flannery’s leadership, teamwork, and commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Melissa Jocelyn
Olivia McKeigue, Massachusetts General Hospital
Olivia probably won’t remember me, but isn’t that one of the beautiful parts of nursing? That you can touch someone’s life in such a brief, routine way?
Olivia was the nurse who supported my labor with my baby girl last year. I was met with such patience and kindness from her. And when I started to panic that my labor was not progressing at hour 24, she talked me down with empathy. She provided reassurance and told me it was okay to rest. I accepted the epidural, which she monitored closely, bringing the attending to my bedside when a dosing adjustment was needed.
Ultimately, I’ll never forget the way Olivia connected with me during that moment of desperation. I trusted her.
I also have a picture of my newborn son in the arms of Shannon Sanchez, the nurse who delivered him. Thank you, Olivia, and thank you, Shannon. Know that I remember your names and your compassion.
Nominated by Victoria Mills
David Miller, Massachusetts General Hospital
As a sarcoma survivor, my cancer journey was filled with uncertainty, but David’s unwavering kindness, humor, and support made an immeasurable difference in my life.
David brought light into some of my darkest days. He wasn’t just my nurse; he became my friend. Whether reading manga with me, talking about WWE, or simply being there with a smile, David always found a way to lift my spirits.
One moment that will stay with me forever is when I asked, “Why is this happening to me?”
David’s response was both simple and profound: “It’s because we need to meet people like you, who are genuine, grateful, and resilient.” Those words gave me purpose when I needed it most, and they continue to inspire me every day.
David also provided me with practical tools to cope, like teaching me a countdown strategy to reduce my anxiety during blood draws and injections, a technique I still use today. His care extended beyond medical tasks. He offered emotional support, encouragement, and reassurance at every step.
He made the overwhelming experience of cancer treatment a little easier to bear simply by being himself — kind, compassionate, and understanding.
David’s impact on my journey is something I will never forget. He represents the very essence of compassionate care, supporting not only my physical needs but also my emotional and mental well-being. I cannot thank nurse David Miller enough.
Jean Murray, Massachusetts General Hospital
Jean’s unwavering commitment to the cardiac surgery intensive care unit (ICU) has left an indelible mark on our unit and the many lives she has touched over her 10-plus years of service. Jean consistently exemplifies the heart and soul of nursing, going above and beyond to ensure the highest level of care for her patients and offering immeasurable support to their families during some of the most challenging times in their lives.
As a preceptor, Jean is a guiding light for new nurses and nursing students, always taking the time to share her knowledge and expertise. Her teaching goes beyond clinical skills; she instills a deep sense of compassion, empathy, and resilience in the next generation of caregivers. Many have described Jean as not just a mentor but a source of inspiration in shaping their careers.
Jean’s work ethic and dedication are unparalleled. She is always the first to lend a helping hand, whether assisting a colleague with a complex case or providing emotional support to a family in distress. Her presence in the ICU is calming and reassuring, and her patients’ families often express their gratitude for the way she connects with them and keeps them informed, offering both medical expertise and emotional reassurance.
Through her tireless work and selfless service, Jean has made a profound impact on the lives of both patients and staff alike. Her dedication to her craft, compassion for those in her care, and willingness to always go the extra mile make her an extraordinary nurse and a true hero in every sense of the word.
Nominated by Olivia Lovenstein
Jessica Podgur, Massachusetts General Hospital
Jessica is an exceptional clinician, a compassionate caregiver, and a dedicated team player who embodies the very best of nursing.
Jessica’s upbeat personality and optimistic approach create a positive and collaborative work environment, making her a pillar of support for both her colleagues and patients. Her caring and compassionate nature is evident in everything she does, whether mentoring new graduate nurses, advocating for patients, or providing comfort to those in her care. She is highly skilled, knowledgeable, and approachable. Her willingness to help, even with the simplest tasks, makes her a valued resource to all.
As a strong patient advocate, Jessica consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her patients receive personalized, patient-centered care. Whether walking with a patient around the unit, assisting with personal care, or simply taking the time to listen to a patient’s story, she understands the importance of meeting patients where they are on their hospital journey. She is empathetic, conscientious, and deeply committed to fostering trust and comfort for both patients and their families.
Jessica is also a leader in education and mentorship, supporting nursing students, new graduate nurses, and colleagues through teaching and bedside training. She is transparent, receptive to feedback, and always willing to step up when needed. Her dedication to teamwork, patient advocacy, and continuous learning makes her an invaluable member of the Ellison 12 team and a true role model in nursing.
For her compassion, leadership, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to her patients and colleagues, I wholeheartedly recommend Jessica Podgur for Salute to Nurses 2025. She truly represents the heart and soul of nursing, and I cannot think of a more deserving nurse.
Stephanie Qualls, Massachusetts General Hospital
Stephanie Qualls deserves all of our salutes. She is my partner as the nursing director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Neuroscience Intensive Care Unit (Neuro-ICU).
Our patients are critically ill, and as a result, they and their families are often in crisis. Stephanie is always focused on the patient and family, specifically how we can make their care and experience better.
Her commitment is authentic, action-oriented, and infectious. She has a positive influence on more than 100 nurses, as well as therapists, dietitians, technicians, physicians, and surgeons. As a result, our Neuro-ICU has built an environment centered on continuous improvement, teamwork, and fully intentional patient- and family-centered care.
Thank you!
Chris Richard, Massachusetts General Hospital
Chris has been an exceptional nurse since starting on Blake 11 at Massachusetts General Hospital. He has been a leader whom every nurse can count on and often steps up to take care of difficult patients. He is easygoing and always eager to lend a helping hand. Working on an inpatient psychiatry unit can be challenging and traumatic, but Chris is able to bring positive energy to the team that helps every shift go by quickly.
He has served many roles since arriving on Blake 11. He has been a nursing preceptor for newly licensed nurses and nursing students. He has also served as a resource nurse, overseeing the everyday activities of the 24-bed unit we work on. He has served these roles with a poise and grace that have made an impact on all the nurses who work around him.
Nominated by Cameron Doyle
Aimee Roderick, Massachusetts General Hospital
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive and terminal disease that leaves patients needing help and answers quickly. Waiting on insurance or medical equipment companies can feel like a lifetime when ALS is progressing.
Aimee is an outpatient ALS nurse who is always there for patients. She is incredibly responsive and compassionate, allowing patients and families to feel less alone as they navigate the health care system. She follows up with patients to make sure they received their treatment, equipment, or phone call. Patients have repeatedly provided feedback that they are grateful to have Aimee on their team.
Nominated by Jennifer Scalia and Merit Cudkowicz
Danica Sanders, Massachusetts General Hospital
I am a physician working in the amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) clinic at Mass General Brigham. ALS is a serious illness that requires several health care services. All the patients I see in the ALS clinic also see Danica as their primary nurse. I have been working with her for five years, and I can attest that I regularly receive compliments about her from patients. They all rave about Danica. She is an important point of contact for all our patients.
Here are a few examples in patients’ own words:
“I honestly have never met a more wonderful nurse in my life. Thank you for knowing how to affirm a person’s humanity when everything else seems to be lost.”
“I first wanted to thank you for seeing me. We really enjoyed our visit. You and your staff were all very friendly and helpful, and your advice was appreciated and invaluable.”
“I wanted to thank you both for all your help, support, and expertise over the years. You helped us make the best of a terrible disease and, I believe, helped to extend his life and vitality.”
Nominated by Sabrina Paganoni
Louise Sheehan, Massachusetts General Hospital
Louise Sheehan has been a trailblazer in enhancing psychiatric care through innovative protocols and comprehensive staff training. Her leadership in implementing IV ketamine administration within our hospital represents a pivotal advancement in treatment options for complex psychiatric cases. This initiative has not only expanded our therapeutic toolkit but also set a new standard for rapid-response care, giving our team additional resources to effectively manage acute psychiatric symptoms. Louise’s attention to rigorous safety and patient-monitoring protocols in this process ensures that this powerful intervention can be delivered with the utmost precision and care, reinforcing patient trust and safety.
Recognizing the challenges our staff members face in managing aggression, Louise developed and introduced a hospitalwide simulation training focused on de-escalation and response strategies. This training empowers our team members to respond confidently in high-stakes situations, prioritizing both patient and staff safety. Feedback from staff has highlighted the program’s immediate impact on readiness and morale, as team members now feel better equipped to handle difficult interactions with empathy and skill.
In addition, Louise is deeply committed to trauma-informed care. She led the creation of an education program to equip staff to support patients impacted by trauma, sensitively addressing the unique needs of this vulnerable population. This program has been implemented in other Mass General Brigham (MGB) hospitals, enhancing the consistency and compassion of care across our system. Louise’s dedication to fostering a trauma-informed environment demonstrates her commitment to not only clinical excellence but also to creating a more inclusive and empathetic culture within our hospital and MGB system.
Louise’s initiatives have had a lasting impact on our hospital’s approach to complex psychiatric care and have fostered a safer, more compassionate environment for both patients and staff. Her dedication to innovation and staff development embodies the spirit of an outstanding nurse and serves as a benchmark for quality and empathy in health care.
Nominated by Paula Knotts
Nina Surabian, Massachusetts General Hospital
I am honored to have worked alongside Nina Surabian and am proud to nominate her for this recognition. Nina humbly exemplifies compassion, clinical competency, excellent communication, trust in care, and advocacy for patients in every aspect of her work.
From the moment Nina engages with patients, her empathetic nature shines. Whether comforting a patient facing a difficult diagnosis or listening attentively to a concern, she demonstrates genuine care for both their emotional and physical well-being. This compassion is felt not only by her patients but also by everyone who works alongside her.
Nina consistently arrives 30 to 60 minutes early to review her patients’ charts, ensuring she understands the full clinical picture before her shift even begins. She approaches each case with a deep understanding of the medical conditions she treats, often questioning the care plan to identify areas for improvement and anticipate clinical changes. I have personally and repeatedly witnessed her attention to detail, swift decision-making, and problem-solving abilities prevent potentially fatal outcomes.
One of Nina’s greatest strengths is her ability to communicate effectively with both patients and colleagues. She explains complex medical information in an easy-to-understand manner, taking the time to answer all questions thoroughly. Despite her extensive knowledge and skills, Nina remains humble, making patients and colleagues feel cared for rather than intimidated.
Nina goes above and beyond in advocating for her patients. She ensures each patient’s voice is heard and their needs are met, especially in challenging situations. She humanizes and dignifies every patient she encounters, even forgoing her own breaks to provide one-on-one care to patients, such as offering them a break from safety restraints — even if just for 45 minutes while they sleep. Nina’s selfless commitment to patient care, especially in the demanding environment of inpatient neurology acute care, makes her truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Colleen Brady
Kelly Upton, Massachusetts General Hospital
I have had multiple surgeries at Massachusetts General Hospital in Waltham, Mass. All of the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) nurses there are so kind and competent. Kelly took care of me after my recent surgery and was so caring and attentive. She was everything you would want in a nurse when you are that vulnerable. She advocated for me and did everything she could to make me as comfortable as possible.
As a nurse myself, it is always difficult being on the other side of the bed. Kelly made this experience so much easier for me. I am so grateful for the care I received from Kelly and all of the other PACU nurses.
Nominated by Stephanie Bourgeois
Meron Woldemariam, Massachusetts General Hospital
It is an understatement to say our nurse was a blessing. It is truly a gift to have such an angel by your side, someone who cares so deeply and makes sure your well-being is always in the best hands. Meron radiates compassion, intelligence, patience, and such beautiful energy — an incredible combination of qualities.
One memory that will always stay close to my heart is when Meron lovingly cared for our father after his injury. Meron devoted herself to understanding his needs, listening to his concerns, and ensuring his comfort. She would check in on him throughout the day, easing his pain.Our family is beyond blessed to have such an angel among us. I have no doubt that every patient Meron cares for, as well as her colleagues, feels the warmth and dedication she brings to everything she does. May the universe shower Meron with the same boundless love and light she so selflessly gives to everyone around her.
Nominated by Adanech Hailu
Tonya Yurjevic, Massachusetts General Hospital
Tonya is a lung transplant nurse coordinator. It’s hard to fully capture how emotionally demanding and complicated this role is. Tonya takes care of pre-transplant patients undergoing evaluation and post-transplant patients who have already received a lung transplant.
She also assists with donor call scheduling, helping ensure doctors like me know when we’re on call to accept lungs. In addition, she presents patients at our transplant selection meetings, where we determine who will be listed for transplant. Remarkably, Tonya commutes from Ohio to Boston every month to continue working with our team while living with her family back in Ohio. Tonya is incredible and truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Rene Bermea
Nurses at McLean SouthEast, McLean Hospital
Nurses who provide care at McLean SouthEast work with patients to help them heal. They partner with their patients, helping them develop coping skills that they can use in their everyday lives. They educate their patients on health issues that can improve their recovery. Each day, this team demonstrates empathy, building trust with their patients. They create a safe, supportive environment that fosters recovery, and they advocate for the dignity and well-being of every patient. Their impact is immeasurable, and they embody the very essence of compassionate care.
Nominated by Darlyn Scott
Erin Savage, McLean Hospital
Erin shows great compassion and advocates for her patients. She is highly competent and recently completed her master’s degree in nursing to become a nurse practitioner.
Nominated by Glenn Walker
Colleen Cabral, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Colleen Cabral is a remarkable nurse who truly exemplifies the qualities of a health care professional deserving recognition. As the charge nurse of a busy cardiovascular center, she expertly manages the floor across multiple modalities, ensuring that the schedule runs smoothly while prioritizing the delivery of quality care to our patients.
Colleen excels in both leadership and hands-on roles, particularly during emergencies, when her quick thinking and calm demeanor make all the difference.
In addition to her daily responsibilities, she serves as a department resource and plays a key role in precepting new staff, sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise. Colleen’s compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to our cardiovascular team at MelroseWakefield, and we are incredibly fortunate to have her.
Nominated by Danielle Patturelli
Andrea Christopher, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Andrea is the type of nurse you’d want not only as your family member’s caregiver but also as a friend. Andrea provided exceptional care and dedication during a challenging time for my family.
Unfortunately, my mom has been in and out of the hospital quite a few times this past year, and she cared for her with incredible compassion, skill, and professionalism. It was a scary time for us, but Andrea’s kindness and unwavering support made all the difference. She not only provided expert clinical care but also offered comfort to my entire family, going above and beyond her duties.
Even after my mother’s stay, she has continued to check in — showing just how deeply she cares for her patients. Her knowledge, dedication, and genuine compassion make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Kayla McEachern
Intensive Care Unit Team, MelroseWakefield Hospital
I am honored to nominate the entire intensive care unit (ICU) team, nurses and nurse practitioners alike, who have cared for my mom during the most challenging year of her life. It is impossible to single out just one individual because every member of this team has made an extraordinary impact on our family.
This team is the epitome of excellence in health care. They are friendly, sweet, and compassionate, creating an atmosphere of comfort and hope during what has been a trying time for our family. They embody the very essence of patient-centered care, treating my mom with kindness and respect at every step of her journey.
Beyond their compassion, they are incredibly knowledgeable and skilled, working tirelessly to guide my mom toward recovery with each visit. No matter how complex the situation, this team demonstrates a level of dedication and professionalism that leaves us in awe. Their teamwork and communication are seamless, ensuring that my mom always feels supported and safe in their capable hands.
Unfortunately, my mom has had to return to the ICU multiple times, but each time, she has felt a sense of relief and reassurance knowing that she is in the care of this dream team. The continuity of their care, combined with their genuine concern for her well-being, has been a source of great comfort for her and our family.
We will forever be grateful for the extraordinary care and compassion this team has shown. They are more than health care providers — they are our heroes, and we will never forget the impact they’ve had on our lives.
Thank you to the ICU team for everything you have done and continue to do. You are truly exceptional.
Samantha Kelly, MelroseWakefield Hospital
It is my honor to recognize Sam, a young nurse who cared for my mother during her time on the step-down unit. From the moment we met Sam, it was clear that she possesses a rare combination of kindness, compassion, and professionalism that sets her apart.
Sam consistently went above and beyond to ensure my mother felt comfortable and cared for during her recovery. Her sweet and caring nature brought a sense of calm to what was sometimes a stressful situation for our family. Sam’s ability to connect with my mom on a personal level while maintaining her professionalism was truly remarkable.
Not only is Sam a compassionate caregiver, but her depth of knowledge and expertise also inspired great confidence. She was always attentive, proactive, and thorough, leaving us assured that my mom was in the best hands possible. Sam’s clear communication and willingness to answer our questions with patience further demonstrated her dedication to excellence in patient care.
It is clear that Sam has a bright future ahead of her in nursing. She embodies the qualities that every family hopes for in a caregiver: competence, kindness, and genuine compassion. My family and I will always be grateful for the exceptional care she provided to my mother, and we are certain she will continue to touch countless lives with her incredible work.
Thank you, Sam, for making such a difference. You are truly extraordinary.
Karen Lavargna, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Karen is the epitome of compassionate care and dedication as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse. Her unwavering commitment to her patients was so evident during her care for my mom, Maureen, in March 2024. Amid the challenging atmosphere of the ICU, Karen’s kindness shone brightly as she offered not only medical expertise but also a comforting presence that alleviated our worries. Her passion for nursing was palpable in every interaction as she worked toward my mom’s rehabilitation. Karen’s genuine empathy and tireless efforts were undoubtedly the catalyst for my mom’s remarkable recovery.
Karen works incredibly hard. Just watching her actually exhausted us; she never stopped moving! Any downtime she had was spent making sure my mom had everything she needed. Getting my mom up and moving around was a big part of her recovery, and she worked my mom hard to make sure she improved. Karen invested herself wholeheartedly in my mom’s recovery, going above and beyond to ensure her comfort and progress.
Karen did not want any recognition, either. Whenever we would thank her or tell her how amazing she was, she would tell us this was her job. And while it is her job, she needs to give herself more credit for how amazingly she does it. She is truly an unsung hero for the organization, and she is so humble. My family would really love to see Karen be recognized because she is the nurse you want to take care of your sick family member.
Bria Mazige, MelroseWakefield Hospital
I am a longtime certified registered nurse anesthetist working exclusively in the endoscopy department, and I often get to work and interact with Bria. An obvious patient advocate, her kindness is immediately recognizable. Her willingness to explore a patient’s unique history is evident, and her ability to understand new techniques related to this specialty brings a youthful exuberance and excitement to the rest of the staff. She is an absolute asset to this department and will no doubt continue to be a valuable addition to the nursing world.
Nominated by Donna Pierce
Danielle Patturelli, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Danielle Patturelli, while not a traditional bedside nurse, is truly one of the best nurses I have had the honor of working with. Her dedication to her patients means she wears many hats throughout the day. She continually steps up to help patients, her colleagues, and the cardiologists and specialists she works alongside.
Danielle has been instrumental in developing the cardiovascular services department into the exceptional place it is today. She has successfully brought new academic cardiac procedures into the community, allowing patients to receive outstanding, academic-level care locally, without needing to travel to Boston.
On a personal note, Danielle’s compassionate care directly helped a family member of mine who was undergoing a cardiac procedure. She took her time explaining his procedure and stayed with him throughout it all. Her kindness and expertise provided comfort not only to him but also to my entire family during a challenging time.
Danielle does all of this with a constant smile and an upbeat attitude. Despite the inherent stress of health care, I have never seen her get frazzled. She is a true angel in scrubs, and it is an honor to know and work with her.
Nominated by Melissa Roberto
Daneen Petrone, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Daneen is a longtime employee who is often unseen, as she works full-time nights. In addition to her demanding job, she was a caretaker for her father, who recently passed, and she continues to care for and manage a household.
Despite the craziness of life, she comes in to care for our vulnerable population in the intensive care unit at night, when there are fewer resources available. She is dedicated to giving patients the care they depend on. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with her and to call her a friend.
Nominated by Elizabeth Higginbottom
Lori Wortman, MelroseWakefield Hospital
Lori Wortman’s tireless dedication and leadership in reopening our cardiac rehabilitation program after the pandemic have been nothing short of remarkable. Alongside the entire cardiac rehabilitation team, Lori demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our cardiology patients by not only rebuilding the program from the ground up, but also by taking it upon herself to learn about the critical role cardiac rehabilitation plays in recovery and overall health.
Her initiative and passion for the well-being of our patients have been evident in every aspect of the program, as she has consistently brought knowledge and compassion to those in need. Lori’s efforts have ensured that our patients receive the highest level of care, empowering them to lead healthier lives and recover with confidence.
Suellen Breakey, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Suellen Breakey serves as a distinguished teaching associate professor and director of the Center for Climate Change, Climate Justice, and Health at the MGH Institute of Health Professions School of Nursing. She is a teacher extraordinaire, an expert cardiac surgery clinician, and a generous mentor of nursing students and faculty colleagues.
Suellen served in a variety of clinical roles in the cardiac surgery intensive care unit and as a cardiac surgery clinical leader prior to joining the MGH Institute faculty. She brought her exceptional clinical skills to teaching both our entry-level nursing students and our doctoral nursing students.
Her expertise in cardiac surgery was also shared for many years in Rwanda with the Brigham and Women’s Hospital team. Her primary area of expertise is currently related to the health consequences of climate change in her impressive role as director of the Climate Center, which is a first-of-its-kind, nurse-led center in the United States addressing the complex challenges to health in our climate-changing world.
She is a prolific author in the nursing and health professions literature, a scholar in global health and climate change, and a mentor to nursing students and faculty colleagues alike. Suellen truly embodies the best in our profession of nursing — preparing the next generation of nurses to care for patients, families, communities, and populations — locally and globally.
Nominated by Patrice Nicholas
Kate Kieran, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Kate is an incredibly supportive colleague and nursing professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions. As a mental health nursing instructor, she inspires her students to approach patient care with a holistic perspective, fostering compassionate and comprehensive nursing practice.
She uplifts her colleagues by actively listening, mentoring them on writing projects, and providing diverse perspectives — always offering encouragement and support.
Nominated by Rachael Salguero
Patricia Reidy, MGH Institute of Health Professions
Pat Reidy serves as interim dean of nursing for the MGH Institute of Health Professions, which is part of Massachusetts General Hospital and the only degree-granting affiliate of Mass General Brigham. She is a distinguished professor and board-certified family nurse practitioner.
Pat will be retiring this summer and has made an incredible impact on the Boston community through her nursing leadership, teaching, research, and service. Not only has she developed and led numerous community health programs, including pro bono clinics and mobile health services, but she has also led numerous large federal grants that have supported the training of nurses from diverse backgrounds, prepared nurses to work in rural and underserved communities in Massachusetts, and helped students from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve rewarding careers with family-sustaining wages. Her humility, compassion, mastery of nursing education, and impactful research have enriched the lives of so many and the Boston community. She is deeply deserving of a salute!
Nominated by Reamer Bushardt
Over her 50-year career, Patricia Reidy has been a model of excellence in compassion, trust, and patient advocacy. She has had a positive influence on countless patients, students, and colleagues in clinical and academic settings. It’s difficult to identify only one example of her exemplifying the characteristics of nursing because they are so numerous.
Since 2014, she has been my mentor, and I am continually in awe of her passion for nursing and the art of teaching. During a site visit with a student years ago, I had the pleasure of witnessing a moment when Pat modeled “going the extra mile” for a newborn who was not gaining weight. She expertly assembled a team ranging from lactation consultants to physicians to social workers and community services to establish a plan for the family that gave them hope and comfort. In her clinical work as a nurse practitioner, she coordinated holistic care for families from low-income, immigrant, and underserved communities.
In her life as a nurse educator, she translated her passion for high-quality prenatal care, child development, social justice, and team-based care into a remarkable record of scholarly achievements. She has led large grants and published numerous articles on interprofessional collaboration, cultural humility, and climate justice. Most recently, as our nursing dean at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, Pat continues to devote her life to inspiring and teaching other nurses to do good work.
I could write a book of examples of how Pat has inspired me as a nurse, nurse educator, nurse leader, and person. She is an amazing combination of expert wisdom, down-to-earth approachability, and well-placed playfulness. She has supported, guided, and comforted so many people and embodies the role of nurse, the world’s most trusted professionals. She truly deserves widespread recognition.
Nominated by Jason Lucey
Pat Reidy is one of the most competent and selfless academic nursing administrators with whom I have had the honor of working. She has spent over 20 years at the MGH Institute of Health Professions (IHP) in so many different roles, culminating this year with serving as the interim dean of the School of Nursing. She is an authentic, competent, and compassionate leader who recognizes that the most important asset of the IHP is its people. She is passionate about preparing the best nurses to care for complex patients.
Over the course of her career, Pat Reidy has been a highly funded faculty member with more than $10 million of workforce training grants to support the education of nursing students working with underserved populations. Her grants have focused on improving care for minoritized populations while helping undergraduate and graduate students learn the skills needed to care for diverse patients and communities. I have consistently been impressed that every time she was considering applying for a grant, she built a team of junior faculty to work with her to learn how to write grants. She worked with them at each step and, in some cases, helped junior faculty take over leadership of the project. This kind of selfless behavior is not usual in academia but is characteristic of Pat Reidy.
Her service this year as interim dean of the School of Nursing is another example of her selflessness, given that she had planned to retire this year but put off those plans to serve in this role. She has been an exceptional leader, providing inspiration to her faculty and support to those who need it. I can think of no one more worthy of a spot in Salute to Nurses.
Nominated by Paula Milone-Nuzzo
Pat Reidy serves as interim dean, director of community engagement, and Amelia Peabody professor at the MGH Institute of Health Professions School of Nursing. In addition to her role as dean, she is an accomplished family nurse practitioner, teacher, and mentor of faculty and students.
She has served in leadership roles at the MGH Institute for more than two decades and brings extensive experience across clinical practice settings, offering advanced practice nursing excellence to patients, families, and communities. Her clinical work in community health centers and her mentorship of nurse practitioner students have been exemplary throughout her career.
Most recently, as a national advocate for interprofessional education, collaborative practice, and exceptional patient care, Pat has played a key role in securing more than $7.2 million in grant funding from the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration Bureau of Health Workforce, serving as principal and co-investigator. Her efforts have focused on nurse-led mobile services, team-based care, academic-clinical partnerships in behavioral health, and interprofessional student-faculty practice. Many of her efforts address the complex health consequences of climate change and support the education of patients, families, communities, and populations, as well as the MGH Institute nursing and health professions students.
In 2023, her team received an additional $5.8 million from the Department of Labor for nurse educator workforce development. Her work on this grant will expand the nursing education workforce in our challenging health care landscape in community-based, primary, and acute care.
There are those outstanding leaders who will always step up to cover open positions, extend their commitment when needed, and provide the vision and direction to help faculty design cutting-edge programs. Patricia Reidy, the interim dean at MGH Institute of Health Professions School of Nursing, is one of those special nurse leaders — known for her persistence and vigilance, along with a compassionate touch.
As our current leader in the School of Nursing, she goes out of her way to support faculty and students while, at the same time, pushing us to consider ways to innovate. She fosters open dialogue and creates a sense of belonging that invigorates faculty and staff while enhancing the student experience. Her leadership is helping us recruit more students who want to become nurses and succeed in our accelerated academic programs.
Pat also served as principal investigator on our Department of Labor grant to prepare new nurse educators. In the three programs supported by this grant, we are increasing the number of master’s-prepared nurse educators and providing education for others to become certified nurse educators or clinical educators.
She has also obtained other grants that help students gain critical experience in the community. She works with students on our mobile van, which serves our local community by assessing health care needs and providing preventive care and education.
Pat Reidy is not only an amazing leader but also someone who freely shares her ideas through mentoring others and presenting nationally. We salute Pat Reidy as a nurse who will continue to make an impact on patients and nursing today and in the years to come.
Nominated by Margie Sipe
Natalya Carney, Mount Auburn Hospital
The year was 1997. I was a nurse in my early 20s and had just moved to Boston from the Midwest. I was introduced to a nurse who would change the trajectory of both my nursing career and my life.
Natalya was assigned to be my preceptor as I oriented to a brand-new labor and delivery unit in a hospital in Boston. It’s difficult to pinpoint one scenario that separates Natalya from other nurses because there are so many! Natalya is the epitome of an intelligent, compassionate, and professional nurse who always prioritizes patient safety.
Natalya has been a labor and delivery nurse for 30 years. Patients fortunate enough to have Natalya as their nurse receive the gold standard of compassionate and skilled care. She stays current with maternal-fetal medicine research and often incorporates them when managing her patient care.
The feeling you get when working alongside Natalya — or being cared for by her — is one of safety. One example of her exemplary care was when she was caring for a woman in active labor. This patient was a first-time mom, non-English speaking, and did not have any family with her during her labor. Natalya never left her side. She ensured she was informed and understood — in her primary language — at every stage of her care.
Natalya held her patient’s hand and reassured her through the entire unmedicated labor and delivery. After the healthy baby was born and the mom and baby were stable, Natalya made sure they had immediate skin-to-skin contact so they could experience the “Golden Hour” together. At this moment, the patient began to weep and thanked Natalya. She was so appreciative that she had such a caring and skilled nurse by her side as she delivered her first baby. Natalya reassured her that it was a pleasure to be a part of her birth story.
This is just one tiny snapshot of the amazing care Natalya provides when caring for her patients. In addition to her compassion, she is highly clinically skilled and a tremendous leader at every institution where she has worked.
As a new nurse in obstetrics, I learned so much from Natalya. I have carried her lessons and gold standards of care for 27 years of OB nursing. I have had the privilege of working with Natalya at three different Boston hospitals. She is compassionate, patient, clinically skilled, and a natural leader.
Natalya is a wonderful example of a nurse who deserves to be honored in Salute to Nurses.
Nominated by Jodi Wolf
Karen Scott, Mount Auburn Hospital
Karen is a staff nurse who led a nurse-driven project for the Non-Invasive Cardiology Department to enhance clinical workflow efficiency, improve the patient experience, and expand access to care and treatment for patients.
Recognizing the opportunity to improve existing workflows that limit scheduling capacity, she gathered a team of RNs, echo techs, and a cardiologist. The project resulted in a comprehensive proposal that addressed staffing, workflow change, scheduling enhancements, equipment needs, and volume projection.
Karen presented the proposal to the senior team at Mount Auburn Hospital. With their approval and support, Karen was able to implement the project. The project demonstrated Karen’s dedication and compassion for patients who have to wait weeks or even months for an appointment.
She treats all her patients with kindness and ensures they are comfortable throughout their visit. She also brought her team together to work toward a common goal: better serving the needs of the patients within the community.
Nominated by Geri Tusalem
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