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Jessica Acorn, Cambridge Health Alliance
Jessica is the kind of nurse who quietly changes lives every single day. As an exceptional wound and ostomy nurse, she brings not only remarkable clinical expertise but a depth of compassion that truly sets her apart.
Wound and ostomy care is intensely personal and, for many patients, overwhelming and frightening. Jess meets each individual with gentleness, dignity, and unwavering empathy. She doesn’t simply treat wounds. She cares for the whole person. She reassures without minimizing. She educates with patience and clarity. Most importantly, she restores confidence and hope during some of the most vulnerable moments in a patient’s life.
Her advocacy for excellence in wound care is unmatched. Jess is the nurse colleagues turn to for guidance, wisdom, and steady support. She continually champions best practices, the most dignified and appropriate products, and improved outcomes, not because it is required, but because she wholeheartedly believes her patients deserve nothing less.
At Cambridge Health Alliance, Jess extends her impact far beyond the bedside. Through her leadership and mentorship in the Wound Treatment Associate Program, she is shaping the next generation of skilled, compassionate wound care nurses. Her influence multiplies through those she teaches and inspires, ensuring that her commitment to excellence reaches countless more patients to provide better outcomes.
Jess embodies the very heart of nursing: clinical excellence paired with compassion. Our patients, staff, and community are profoundly better because of her presence. She is not only an outstanding nurse; she is a gift to all of us fortunate enough to work alongside her.
Nominated by Bill Sherman
Sandra Alves, Cambridge Health Alliance
Sandra is exceptional in so many roles — mother, daughter, and nurse — and she has always brought dedication and heart to everything she does. This past year, however, her unwavering kindness, fierce loyalty, and unshakeable can-do spirit have shone brighter than ever. Sandra has stepped up again and again — working long hours, training new nurses, ensuring every member of the team feels supported. Her presence brings stability, strength, and care to an entire community. Her commitment has made a lasting impact on colleagues and patients alike. Bravo, Sandra!
Nominated by Amberly Ticotsky
Toni Braxton-Marin, Cambridge Health Alliance
Toni is a wonderful nurse who provides thorough, compassionate care to our PACE participants. She exemplifies the true spirit of nursing through her compassionate, holistic approach to patient care. Recently, prior to the start of a nurse staff meeting, Toni was overheard discussing a challenging case with her fellow nurses. Toni described her successful strategy with a patient who frequently experiences anxiety, often leading them to decline necessary nursing interventions that ensure their safety and independence at home.
As a nurse and certified Reiki practitioner, Toni understands the power of energy and human connection. She shared how, over time, she has built enough trust for the patient to allow her a comforting embrace — a simple gesture that grounds the patient, eases their fears, and ultimately permits the essential care visit to proceed successfully. This seemingly small act makes a monumental difference in the patient’s life, helping them achieve their goal of continued independent living.
This beautiful act reflects Toni’s natural nursing instincts and deep humanity. She is a powerful reminder that nurses provide more than just exceptional clinical care; they connect with us as fellow humans, recognizing our shared need for comfort and connection to truly thrive. Toni shows us that the role of a nurse extends beyond delivering outstanding patient care; they also serve as a vital reminder that we are all human and flourish through connection.
Nominated by Tara Sherman
Karen Carney, Cambridge Health Alliance
Karen was the midwife who helped bring our beautiful daughter into this world, and it was the most wonderful experience we could have asked for. We come from a different country, but Karen and all the staff at Cambridge Health Alliance made us feel right at home and so welcome.
As a first-time mom, I did not know what to expect during delivery. Karen brought the support and professional skills that made me trust her and the process completely. She was always there, provided comfort and care, and guided us through the delivery with so much calm and competency. We will forever be grateful for her and the wonderful delivery experience she made possible.
Nominated by Laura-Sophie Beier
My mom is the most caring person I know. She has been a nurse my whole life and a nurse-midwife for as long as I can remember. She truly was placed on earth to help people have safe and holistic births. My mom works long hours and overnight shifts. She often takes work home and never complains — because she feels privileged to play a small part in families’ birth narratives. She is someone other staff can seek support and guidance from. She is someone who will go above and beyond for patients and co-workers.
As her daughter, some of my favorite moments are when we are out and about and a former patient rushes over. They hug my mom and show updated baby pictures — even if the baby is now in college — and it’s such a moment of community connection.
Nominated by Danielle Carney
Laura Demore, Cambridge Health Alliance
Laura has been the nurse administering vaccines for both of my young boys the last couple of years. We only see Laura for just a few minutes at each wellness check, but whenever she comes in, we immediately feel at ease. All of us. She remembers little details about us and about our family. She explains every single step of what she is doing and why. We never feel rushed, yet she is quick with what is almost always a stressful few moments.
Both of my boys are always petrified of getting their shots. Laura goes above and beyond, even taking time to fill up rubber gloves with ice to make them smile through the tears. Laura combines skill with compassion every time we see her.
Nominated by Michelle Mazzola
Jennifer Denizard, Cambridge Health Alliance
Jennifer is an attentive, caring, and wise colleague. We have collaborated on many challenging patients. She knows her patients well and has been exceptionally responsive to their needs. She uses excellent nursing judgment and her broad and deep skills to help them with their care, and she connects with them on a human level as well.
Nominated by Joel Sawady
Richard Durkee, Cambridge Health Alliance
Rich is an incredible nurse and a truly gifted nurse educator. He embodies what it means to lead in education, blending deep clinical expertise with unmatched humor, intentional engagement, and an unwavering commitment to learner success.
Rich guides cohorts of new graduate emergency department nurses through what can be a challenging and overwhelming transition from newbie to confident practitioner. Rich intentionally creates structured and supportive learning experiences that will build both clinical competence and professional resilience. His patented hands-on teaching style ensures not only new nurses but also seasoned nurses are not simply observing, but actively participating and thinking critically while sharpening their clinical judgment. These lessons allow learners to grow comfortable working in high-acuity environments.
Rich is deeply committed to learning and promoting professional development. He prepares nurses for Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course (ENPC) certification, breaking down complex emergency nursing concepts into practical, understandable, and memorable lessons in the way only Rich can. His humor is ever-present as he challenges learners and colleagues to reach their full potential. Many nurses credit his ability to articulate complex things with a mix of real-world insight as being instrumental to their success. What truly distinguishes Rich is that he is incredibly thoughtful in how he approaches an issue, with radical acceptance. He meets learners where they are, fosters psychological safety, and creates an environment where questions are encouraged and mistakes become powerful opportunities for growth. He consistently models professionalism, compassion, and lifelong learning in every interaction.
Through his leadership of new graduate cohorts and dedication to certification preparation, Rich has strengthened not only individual nurses and the professional development team, but also the entire emergency nursing team. His excellence in teaching, commitment to hands-on education, and lasting impact on emergency nursing practice were all reasons Rich received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators at Cambridge Health Alliance.
Anne Lank, Cambridge Health Alliance
Anne came to interventional radiology after a long career in multiple specialties, including home care, the operating room, and the emergency department. She came to Cambridge Health Alliance when she could have been settling into retirement.
Having my own personal experiences with medical care and working alongside different nurses as a technologist, I have always had tremendous admiration for them. Anne, in particular, has the deepest compassion in the toughest cases, the inquisitive mind that is always seeking more knowledge, and absolutely no hesitation to jump in and expertly place an impossible IV for anyone who needs help or to place a warm pack under every limb if that’s what it takes to provide comfort.
When COVID-19 came, she doubled down to care for these patients. She has volunteered under no obligation to come into work in the middle of the night to ensure the sickest patients get their procedures. The best part is she teaches me something new about how to understand medications, disease processes, and the best ways to support patients. Coming to work doesn’t feel like just work or just another day when I am scheduled with Anne. The ability to provide the highest standard of care to my community alongside a woman who educates, advocates, and is so devoted to the professionalism of this field is my great pleasure.
Nominated by Jessica Faherty
Corey Marvin, Cambridge Health Alliance
Corey is the nurse manager of the Zinberg Clinic, where he compassionately and skillfully orchestrates the primary and specialty care of patients with HIV, sexually transmitted infections, individuals interested in prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases, and individuals needing post-exposure prophylaxis. He personally connects with the clinic patients, including providing his personal cell phone number to ensure prompt access to care.
In the wake of the recent increase in mpox cases in Massachusetts and our catchment area, Corey has reached out to all primary care clinics at our organization to offer Zinberg’s expertise with diagnosing and caring for patients with this infection. He has coordinated, managed, facilitated, and encouraged the administration of the mpox vaccine to at-risk patients. His ability to communicate, engage, and lead has greatly contributed to improving the health and outcomes of the patients he serves. His commitment is extraordinary!
Nominated by Lou Ann Bruno-Murtha
I honestly cannot remember the exact date Corey Marvin joined the Zinberg Clinic at Cambridge Health Alliance as our nurse manager. I suspect it has been at least 10 years. But I do know that I cannot imagine working without him.
The Zinberg Clinic is a clinic that provides primary care and specialty care to those living with and at risk of HIV acquisition. Like no one else I have ever met, Corey brings such passion to his work. It is not unusual for me to hear how Corey gave out his cell phone number to someone with a new diagnosis of HIV so they can call him any time for support. It is not unusual for me to hear how Corey calls a patient living with HIV who is struggling with medication adherence every single day — weekends included — to remind them to take their medication. It is not unusual for me to hear how Corey hand-delivered medications to a patient in need or personally arranged transportation for a struggling patient to get to an appointment. It is not unusual for me to hear how Corey visited one of our Zinberg patients in the hospital, including hospitals across town. It is not unusual for me to hear how Corey traveled to a different town to assist a provider in delivering a new diagnosis of HIV.
In addition to his compassionate care, Corey brings a level of excellence to the clinic. He works relentlessly to make sure our clinic and patients have access to new treatment options. When new injectable and subcutaneous medication options for the treatment and prevention of HIV were approved, he quickly worked with leadership to make sure the clinic had the appropriate protocols and education in place to offer these options. When mpox cases were first detected in the community, he quickly worked to obtain the vaccine and ensured outreach to our at-risk patients.Nominated by Linda Shipton
Corey is the nurse manager for the Zinberg Clinic, where we provide HIV care, sexually transmitted infections prevention and treatment, and other services to a patient population that includes many individuals who have been marginalized by the medical system and society in different ways. Corey employs what sometimes seems like magical powers to make the medical system work for our patients, as one might expect from a concierge medical practice. He is literally on many of our patients’ speed dial for times of crisis.
One small example of Corey’s compassionate and competent care is how he has helped some of our severely immunosuppressed patients in need of urgent specialist evaluations for opportunistic infections to ensure they have timely visits, that the patient understands the urgency of the visit, and that they have the means to arrive at the appointment. I am so grateful to have Corey leading our clinical team. It gives me comfort and confidence that he has our patients’ backs.Nominated by Alyse Wheelock
Nancy McCune, Cambridge Health Alliance
Nancy has remarkable dedication that shows up every day in her role as a nurse educator. Nancy is the embodiment of diligence and integrity in nursing. She never misses a detail, follows through on every concern, and ensures that both patients and staff receive the highest standard of care. She believes in following through on plans and that doing things the right way matters, especially when it isn’t the easiest path.
Nancy has not only mastered her field, but she is an incredibly conscientious educator who is committed to growing our team’s knowledge, ensuring evidence-based practice is at the forefront, and supporting the educational needs of the team. She is an amazing collaborator, often going above and beyond — staying late and coming in early to ensure all three shifts feel supported in their educational needs. She is kind and patient, adjusting her approach to align with the staff’s educational needs. She is the most wonderful teammate to have! Our patients, staff, and team are so fortunate to have her.
Nancy is a fierce advocate for patients and for quality practice. If something needs attention, she ensures it happens. If a process can be improved, she approaches it thoughtfully and thoroughly. She does what is right not for recognition, but because it is the standard she holds herself to and inspires in others.
Nancy is the teammate everyone hopes to have. She advocates on behalf of nursing students and preceptors, steps in without hesitation, sees work through to completion, and supports colleagues during the most stressful moments. Her compassionate spirit, paired with her signature dry wit — always delivering a perfectly timed “Stop making sense” — lightens the mood and strengthens the bonds of our team.
As an educator, Nancy is patient, steady, and deeply committed to the growth of every nurse she mentors, teaches, and advocates for. She doesn’t simply teach skills — she builds confidence, accountability, and pride in professional practice. She is always encouraging nurses to seek certifications, to grow. She makes herself available, answers questions with care, and remains engaged until learning is truly complete. Her influence extends far beyond a single shift; she shapes the culture of excellence within our organization.
Nancy represents the very best of nursing: skilled, principled, compassionate, and unwavering in her commitment to doing things well. Our patients are safer, our staff are stronger, and our community is better because of her dedication.
Mary Perrin-Eaglin, Cambridge Health Alliance
Mary is an excellent psychiatric nurse who combines expertise with deep compassion, patience, and clinical skills to care for our patients. Mary promotes a safe environment where patients feel respected, heard, and valued, even during moments of crisis. Mary is amazing and always offers her support to both co-workers and patients in times of need. She always remains calm under pressure, sets clear boundaries, and maintains professionalism at all times. She is just an outstanding psychiatric nurse, detail-oriented, and consistent.
Nominated by Garry Francois
Grace Poirier, Cambridge Health Alliance
I am writing to highlight the exceptional work “Mama Grace” has performed within the office-based addiction treatment program over the last decade.
Grace consistently demonstrates our care team’s core values, exhibiting a high level of clinical competency and compassion. She provides high-quality care with a deeply empathetic approach, ensuring her patients feel heard and supported throughout their recovery.
As a vital asset to our program, Grace recently co-led the planning and execution of the Revere injectable buprenorphine clinic. Thanks to her efforts, patients can now receive medication-assisted treatment injections as part of the office-based opioid treatment program at the Revere clinic. She wears many hats and works tirelessly to provide her patients with the best tools for success.
Grace is a dedicated advocate who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her patients’ needs are met. Her excellent communication skills have fostered a strong sense of trust, and her presence creates an environment free of judgment or fear.
Nominated by Shante Cruz
The amazing Grace Poirier has been an office-based addiction treatment program nurse since 2015. I have worked alongside her in our addiction recovery group for 11 years. We have had patients sober and in recovery for more than 10 years, which is truly incredible in the addiction space. And we have new people join our groups every week. What we hear in nearly every group is patients talk about how they love the group and they are doing well in their recovery “because of Grace.” She is always there — she gets endless texts and calls each day from patients needing her help, and she goes above and beyond for them.
Some classic Grace “comes to the rescue” examples: She walks patients through panic attacks (in her office, she puts ice bags on their neck and walks them through breathing and recognizing what is and is not in their control). She recognizes when a person in group is on the verge of relapse and then calls them multiple times a week to check in on them. She talks to parole officers and Department of Children and Families caseworkers to advocate for how the patient is doing well in recovery. She helped a patient figure out how to cremate his beloved dog. She helped a patient figure out how to afford kitty litter. She listens to patients endlessly when they call in crisis and need a listening ear and someone to truly empathize and talk them down through spiraling anxious and depressed thoughts.
Our patients love, love, love “Mama Grace.” She is a combination of tough love and the mom everyone wishes they had, and she is 1,000% dedicated to caring for patients struggling with substance use disorders.
Nominated by Randi Sokol
Stacy Riel-Rigiero, Cambridge Health Alliance
Stacy has demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and intelligence in her role as a triage nurse, charge nurse, and colleague. Patients tell me that they’ve never been cared for like Stacy cares for them. In her role as charge, she starts the day by sending a message: “I am here today and available to help if you need me! Message, call, or text me if I can do anything to help.” She always goes the extra mile for her patients and co-workers.
They say nurses are angels without wings, and Stacy surely lives up to that idea. Our organization is lucky to have a nurse like Stacy!
Nominated by Sara Furtado
Kelly Thompson-Hurley, Cambridge Health Alliance
When you imagine a nurse who is kind, smart, efficient, and caring, and who has a good sense of humor, you are imagining Kelly Thompson-Hurley. Kelly not only always seems to have the answers for our questions — be they about medication, where to find supplies, or how to best help an anxious patient — but she takes the initiative to solve issues before we even know there is a problem. She has reached out to worried or sick patients, called them to check in rather than waiting to see if they call back. She has helped get home services set up when needed, counseled moms of sick kids, and listened when our doctors feel stressed.
With her excellent organizational skills and kindness, she helps me to feel that our patients are getting exceptional care and that nothing will fall through the cracks. Kelly works on our process improvement teams, making useful changes in workflow. I trust her clinical judgment, and if I ask Kelly to call and follow up on a message, I know that she will make the right call about whether the patient needs to be seen or can try care at home. If it’s the latter, she will give excellent advice and make sure the patient understands, working with interpreters to be sure that communication is clear. In her kindness, Kelly has stayed late to make sure tasks get done and stayed on the phone with a worried mom who has called for the fourth time. When feedback is needed, she knows how to word it with respectful directness, and she takes input graciously. Honestly, if I could afford to hire Kelly to run my life, I would, but it would be a blow to the world that needs her as a nurse.
Nominated by Andrea Gordon
Darlene Waters-D’India, Cambridge Health Alliance
Darlene goes above and beyond for her patients to make sure they are understood, connected to care, and have all of the resources and services she can find for them. She treats each patient like she would a family member. She is compassionate and knowledgeable and will make sure that her patients feel cared about. The population we serve has a vast range of needs with a common denominator of needing care and understanding. Darlene breaks down barriers to make sure her patients can access the care they need. She exemplifies what nursing should be.
She has been known to anonymously send Christmas gifts to children she knows will go without, send patients food through Lasagna Love so they will not go hungry, and donate her own clothing so women will have clothes to wear.
“To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson
Darlene has succeeded, over and over again. Her patients are so lucky to have her as a case manager.
Nominated by Melissa Kellogg
Perioperative Nurses, Cape Cod Hospital
I would like to recognize the perioperative nurses at Cape Cod Hospital for the extraordinary care they provide every single day. They are among the most skilled, efficient, and professional nurses I have ever encountered, and they truly made my surgical experience feel safe, supported, and seamless from beginning to end.
From the preoperative setting through recovery, their clinical competency was evident in every interaction. They worked with precision, confidence, and calm coordination, creating an environment where patients can feel secure even during stressful and vulnerable moments. Their attention to detail and commitment to safety were unwavering.
What stood out just as much as their skill was their compassion. They took time to explain each step, answer questions patiently, and offer reassurance when it was needed most. They did not treat me as just another case — they treated me as a person, ensuring my comfort and emotional well-being throughout both the pre- and postoperative experience.
These nurses set the standard for what perioperative care should be. Their teamwork, professionalism, and genuine dedication to patients deserve recognition. They are truly outstanding and deeply deserving of this honor.
Nominated by Stephanie Ferrara
Bernadette Delsanto, Community Care Alliance
Bonnie is a psychiatric nurse I have worked alongside for six years in behavioral health emergency services triage. She works the front line and often is the only nurse providing care to individuals experiencing mental health and substance use crises. In a 24/7 walk-in center that supports the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, she is the nurse that saves and supports the individuals who are at their most vulnerable. She prevents overdoses and alcohol withdrawal seizures. On paper, she assesses, monitors, and manages risk. In person, she always has a smile, an active listening ear, and a steadfast commitment to help every patient and co-worker who is in front of her. Through the height of COVID-19, during and after election seasons, and when human beings have given up hope, Bonnie is the nurse who provides it.
Often in the mental health field, we teach best what we most need to learn. Bonnie doesn’t just teach it, she lives it. Self-care, emotional, mental, and physical health are practiced daily, but she meets patients where they are at with no judgment and only care. She taught me how to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, and I would like to return the favor. She’s uncomfortable with praise, recognition, or anything she considers “mushy,” but her actions, loyalty, and commitment to provide care to the human beings that need it the most need all the mushy and deserved recognition.
Nominated by Danielle Cunningham
Sara Burgess, Cooley Dickinson Hospital
I am honored to nominate Sara Burgess for her outstanding demonstration of advocacy, leadership, and compassion in the emergency department (ED). As our director, Sara does not simply manage from an office; she is an ever-present force on the front lines, embodying the very definition of a patient advocate.
Sara’s advocacy is most evident in her relentless pursuit of equity and innovation. She is currently spearheading a major ED renovation, and at the heart of every single decision — from layout to technology — is the patient experience. She ensures the space is not just efficient but inviting and dignified for everyone who walks through our doors, regardless of their background. This commitment to creating a healing environment showcases her deep compassion for those seeking care during their most vulnerable moments.
Her clinical competency and ability to build trust are demonstrated daily as she jumps in with the team during critical situations. By working alongside us, she bridges the gap between administration and bedside care, fostering a culture of mutual respect. This hands-on approach allows her to identify patient needs firsthand and advocate for systemic changes that have a real, positive impact.
Sara’s communication is exemplary; she listens to staff and patients alike, using that feedback to drive improvements. She is tirelessly dedicated to making our ED a place where patients feel safe and staff feel supported. Sara Burgess is the backbone of this department, turning a high-pressure environment into a space of hope and healing.
Nominated by Miranda Lebel
Kimberly Gibowicz, Cooley Dickinson Hospital
I am thrilled to nominate Kim Gibowicz for her exceptional work as an emergency department (ED) charge nurse. Kim is the steady heartbeat of our unit; she is the nurse who truly runs the department with an unparalleled combination of fairness, skill, and heart, ensuring that every patient receives the highest standard of care.
Kim’s clinical competency is the foundation of her practice. In the chaos of the ED, she remains a calm and decisive leader, orchestrating patient flow and assigning resources with the precision of a maestro. Her clinical judgment is trusted by both new graduates and seasoned providers, making her the go-to resource in a crisis. She doesn’t just manage the board; she manages the room, ensuring no patient is overlooked and that every team member feels supported.
Her compassion and advocacy shine through in her equitable approach to both patients and staff. Kim treats every patient with the same level of dignity and urgency, fiercely advocating for those who might otherwise be marginalized. She ensures that voices are heard, whether it is a frightened family or a nurse who needs a break. She builds trust by being unfailingly fair, creating a safe and respectful environment where the team can thrive, which directly translates to better patient care.
Kim’s communication is direct, kind, and effective. She navigates difficult conversations with grace and keeps the entire team informed and aligned. Kim Gibowicz is the oil that keeps this complex machine running smoothly, and she does it all with a level head and a compassionate heart.
Ann LeBrun, Cooley Dickinson Hospital
She was my immediate director when I was in supervision at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. She came in every morning and asked me if there was anything I needed from her. She talked through staffing struggles for the units when there were callouts and then took time out of her busy schedule to round on all the inpatient units, asking them if there was anything they needed. She was always there to lend an ear or a shoulder, whichever you needed that day. She was a safe space, an empathetic ear, and an amazing example of leadership ability that I hope some day I will have a fraction of. Ann was a mentor and an incredible boss. Sadly, she passed recently and our whole hospital is at a loss.
Nominated by Christine Robinson
Erotides Silva, Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Ero has shown consistent caring and kindness to our psychiatric patients in all situations. She looks past the diagnosis and at the person. She was the first nurse to obtain accreditation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) in mental health nursing for the behavioral health unit at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Ero is always looking for ways to improve her nursing knowledge, whether it be by shadowing another nurse on another specialty psychiatric unit or developing specialized treatment plans for patients. She shared this knowledge at a staff training day in a clear, concise, and interesting manner.
I have heard her say, “I will do anything to avoid restraining a patient.” I have seen her go above and beyond to help a patient regain control of their actions. When restraining a patient is unavoidable, she leads the team in safely performing the task, allowing the patient dignity, safety, and respect. Each shift, she shows up with renewed energy and empathy, leading our team with optimism that together we will make a difference in our patients’ experiences of the most difficult moments in their lives. When Ero is the charge nurse, her energy inspires another level of commitment to safety and humanity.
Nominated by Cheri Haimowitz
Mary Cronin, Coram® CVS Specialty ® Infusion Services
Mary Cronin is a special nurse because she is a special person. She gives me infusions at my home with extraordinary care and technical expertise. But she also gives her understanding, compassion, and friendship to our ongoing nurse-patient relationship. She turns a medical appointment into an opportunity for connection.
Nominated by Anonymous
Stefanie Greene, Croí Health
For eight years, Stefanie has provided compassionate care for our hospice residence patients with a calm and kind demeanor. As our lead case manager, she is a seasoned and experienced nurse who treats every patient that comes through our doors with grace while providing space for processing and acceptance.
Stefanie recently had the difficult task of calling a patient’s family to share the news of their loved one’s passing, and the family later reached out to relay that Stefanie’s kind words during the call had remained with them for the immense comfort they offered. Her ability to deliver challenging news and thorough follow-through with families is a true talent, as is her constant collaboration with the rest of the staff at the hospice home. Providing excellent hospice care is a calling, and I am so grateful that Stefanie’s career has called her here to our team.
Nominated by Bernadette Ward
Maeve Moore, Croí Health
I had the pleasure of working with Maeve when she first transitioned into hospice from a hospital inpatient step-down intensive care unit role, which carried a very different pace and mindset. While her intelligence and clinical skills were never in question, Maeve was incredibly hard on herself in the beginning, especially when it came to not immediately knowing hospice workflows or feeling confident in how to emotionally support patients and families during such a vulnerable time. She truly wanted to “get it right.”
It has been so special to witness Maeve’s transformation over time, not just clinically, but in heart. I was touched to see a letter of gratitude arrive for Maeve last week from a recent patient’s family, who noted that she treated their loved one “with dignity, patience, and genuine kindness every single day…as a person deserving of comfort, respect, and warmth.” The letter went on to explain that “In addition to her clinical skill and steady reassurance, Maeve brought light into the room with her warm, easy humor. During such a heavy and emotional time, the laughter she shared with us became a gift. Those small moments of levity helped us cope more than she probably realizes.”
Maeve is a phenomenal nurse and deeply committed to growth. She is the true embodiment of nursing excellence and someone who carries a genuine hospice heart.
Nominated by Nuala McDonagh
Alyssa Warren, Croí Health
I interviewed Alyssa for her current role as a hospice registered nurse case manager and left that conversation knowing she was a true hospice nurse. Although still relatively early in her career, her heart for this work was evident from the start. Alyssa had spent her entire life and professional career serving the community she was raised in. Due to staffing challenges, safety concerns, and a desire to explore what other organizations had to offer, she made the decision to join us. That transition alone speaks to her courage and commitment to growth.
Since coming on board, she has been a true team player, always willing to help, step in where needed, and continue learning. She has embraced a new territory and role with professionalism and grace. What stands out most is the brightness she carries when speaking about her patients and the empathy that consistently guides her care. It is both noticeable and inspiring.
She recently cared for a patient who was a nurse herself, whose daughter was completing her final year of nursing school and following in her mother’s footsteps. As it became clear that timing would likely not allow her mother to be present for graduation or the traditional pinning ceremony, Alyssa recognized how meaningful that moment would be for both of them.
Without hesitation, she collaborated with our interdisciplinary team to create a special pinning ceremony at the patient’s bedside. Surrounded by friends and family, this mother was able to personally pin her daughter before her passing. It was a beautiful, deeply emotional moment — one that honored the patient’s legacy, preserved her dignity, and created a lasting memory for the family.
This is the kind of compassionate, patient-centered care that truly defines hospice nursing. Alyssa embodies that spirit wholeheartedly.
Kara Burke, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
I started seeing Kara Burke on Sept. 29, 2025, for chemotherapy for non-Hodgkin lymphoma at infusion therapy services on Floor 7 of the Yawkey Building. I recently had my last of 12 chemotherapy treatments on Feb. 9, 2026.
Kara was not only welcoming and compassionate, but knowledgeable as well, each and every time. Every question was answered, and if she needed to get answers from my oncologist, she did so in a timely manner. Kara always made me feel comfortable and gave me a sense of purpose. Her smile was infectious, and she always let me know how everything was going, even if there was a delay in pharmacy.
I’m not really sure my experience with Kara could have been any better. On my last treatment, she took photos of my son Ian and me and came in with Welch’s “champagne” and a cake! She even took a photo with us and rang one of our bells. Kara knew my husband was admitted to Tufts Medical Center and truly made my days very special. It would be an honor to have Kara Burke recognized for her professionalism! She exemplifies what every nurse strives to accomplish: trust in care, competency, and true compassion!
Nominated by Elizabeth Larcom
Alexa Clark, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Alexa is a charge nurse at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute imaging department. She puts the patient above all else, and she’s no-nonsense with protocols and procedures. She’s a natural leader and someone I look up to.
Nominated by Michael Lombardo
Sandra Cohen, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Sandy is exceptionally kind, caring, and shows interest in me as an individual. Sandy is always upbeat; she lights up the room with her positive attitude! I have difficult veins, and she does a wonderful job!
Nominated by Anne Harzbecker
Sandra Cohen is an angel of joy. As she approaches me in the waiting room at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute – Chestnut Hill, her joyful greeting makes me feel as though I am the most important patient in the world. Her careful and gentle preparation of my port calms my fears about what lies ahead during a day of challenging treatment for stage 4 ovarian cancer.
She has been one of my lab nurses now for eight years. Whenever she notes I am too weak to navigate on my own, she gently convinces me that a wheelchair is necessary. Because of her, I actually anticipate blood draws calmly. She causes even the most frightened patients to smile. Her welcoming, joyful embrace of each person works miracles each day. She clearly delights in her nursing calling, and that delight is contagious.
Nominated by Sister Nancy Sheridan
Lisa Doherty, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Lisa has been my cancer treatment nurse practitioner since 2011. She has, on more than one occasion, literally saved my life. Over the years, she has become more like family than simply a medical practitioner. She is truly one of the unsung heroes of medical practice.
Nominated by Myles McConnon
Carolyn Goldhamer, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Carolyn has been my wife Susan’s nurse for the past six years on a trial treatment. She was key in helping Sue get through two treatments per week. She is a very special nurse and caring person, a true asset for Dana-Farber.
Nominated by Joe Manfredi
Brianna O’Brien, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
My husband met Brianna when he was first diagnosed with head and neck cancer in 2020. She provided care for him during a time when no loved ones could be with him for support and comfort due to the restrictions of COVID-19. It was not just top medical care she provided, but a listening ear, comforting words, humor, and, most of all, hope.
When my husband’s cancer returned in 2023, Bri was there. She continued to provide top medical care, always letting us know possible side effects and things to look for. But more than that, she became part of our family. She was there when his cancer metastasized to his lungs and then to his brain. Bri continued to provide us hope along with honest conversations. She gave us ideas of how to fight terrible side effects from chemo along with always really listening to our fears and concerns. She made us laugh and provided us comfort through the tears. We always looked forward to seeing nurse Bri on Yawkey 11 at Dana-Farber.
Brianna is a true role model for people in the medical field but especially for oncology nurses. She was such a gift to us through such a difficult time! We couldn’t be more thankful for her and what she gives to her patients on a daily basis.
Nominated by Deidre Jones
Maura Pevear, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Maura has been the infusion nurse for my girlfriend, Jenna, for over a year now as Jenna receives ongoing treatment for metastatic PEComa, an ultra-rare subtype of sarcoma. As one could imagine, Jenna’s treatment journey has been grueling. That said, her care team at Dana-Farber has made the long days and physical toll more manageable just by way of their bedside manner. Maura is at the front of the line in this regard.
One day, when Jenna was upset about having to go into the clinic for treatment, Maura even served as a silver lining: “At least we get to see Maura today.” If this doesn’t speak to the level of compassion Maura brings to the job, and the level of trust Jenna has in her, I don’t know what would!
Nominated by Brendan Lortie
Lindsay Shaw, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Lindsay Shaw consistently exemplifies the highest standards of compassionate, patient-centered oncology care. She approaches every patient encounter with empathy, attentiveness, and respect, ensuring that patients and their families feel heard, supported, and cared for during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Patients frequently comment on her calm presence and her ability to make complex and emotionally difficult situations feel more manageable.
Clinically, Lindsay demonstrates outstanding competency and sound judgment. She integrates current oncologic knowledge with thoughtful, individualized care planning and is meticulous in monitoring treatment tolerance, symptom burden, and safety. Her proactive approach often anticipates issues before they escalate, contributing meaningfully to both patient outcomes and clinic efficiency.
Lindsay is also an exceptional communicator. She explains complex medical information in clear, accessible language and consistently verifies patient understanding. She collaborates seamlessly with physicians, nurses, and research staff, ensuring strong alignment across the care team.
Importantly, Lindsay has earned deep trust from her patients. She follows through reliably, remains accessible, and creates a therapeutic environment where patients feel comfortable sharing sensitive concerns that impact their care.
Finally, Lindsay is a dedicated patient advocate. She routinely goes beyond routine clinical duties to coordinate resources, address barriers to care, and ensure that treatment plans align with each patient’s goals and values. Her professionalism, clinical excellence, and genuine compassion make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Chiara Corti
I am currently a fellow in the breast oncology group at Dana-Farber, and I have had the chance to work with Lindsay Shaw routinely.
Every week, Lindsay teaches me and the other fellows not only the ins and outs of patient care at Dana-Farber, but also how to be compassionate oncologists. In every clinic session, Lindsay takes the time to show me how to efficiently sign orders in for patients, dose medications, and contact other members of the team for smooth hand-offs and referrals. She always demonstrates kindness, patience, humor, and thoroughness in her teaching.
Beyond this, Lindsay teaches me how to be a compassionate oncologist and leads by example. For particular patients who require extra care outside of the clinic, she checks in by phone regularly on their symptoms and mental well-being. She guides me in understanding which patients will need extra attention and how to speak to patients who may be angry or upset. She never shies away from a difficult phone call. I have learned an incredible amount from Lindsay about how to address issues head-on and how to gain the trust of our patients with the greatest needs. Lindsay is a wonderful caretaker and member of the care team — and she meets patients where they are.
Nominated by Tess O’Meara
I am honored to nominate Lindsay Shaw for her exceptional dedication to patients with breast cancer. Lindsay consistently exemplifies compassion, clinical excellence, clear communication, and steadfast advocacy.
Clinically, Lindsay is outstanding. She manages complex breast oncology care with precision and foresight, from navigating modern systemic therapies to proactively identifying and addressing treatment-related toxicities. Her assessments are thorough, her clinical reasoning is sharp, and her decisions are firmly grounded in evidence-based practice. She anticipates problems before they escalate and collaborates seamlessly with physicians, infusion teams, and subspecialists to ensure safe, coordinated care. Both colleagues and patients trust her judgment implicitly.
Equally remarkable is Lindsay’s compassion. She approaches every patient as a whole person, recognizing the emotional weight that accompanies a breast cancer diagnosis. Whether discussing difficult news, managing side effects, or addressing fears of recurrence, she listens attentively, validates concerns, and communicates with clarity and empathy. Patients frequently express that they feel truly heard and supported in her care.
Lindsay is also a tireless advocate. She works diligently to overcome insurance barriers, expedite urgent evaluations, and ensure timely access to necessary treatments. She routinely follows up on symptoms and results without delay, often going beyond scheduled clinic hours to provide reassurance and continuity.
In an era of increasingly complex oncology care, Lindsay delivers not only exceptional clinical expertise but also humanity and trust. Her impact on patients and families is profound, and she embodies the very best of advanced practice nursing. I wholeheartedly support her nomination.
Nominated by Paolo Tarantino
Lindsay Shaw exemplifies compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering advocacy in the care she provides to our patients with breast cancer. For more than a decade, she has been my nurse practitioner partner, and throughout that time, she has consistently demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to caring for the whole person — not just the disease. Having lost a parent to cancer, Lindsay brings a deeply personal understanding of what patients and families endure. That experience has shaped her vision of care: every symptom matters, every fear deserves attention, and no patient should ever feel alone in their journey.
Her clinical competency is equally remarkable. Lindsay is meticulous in assessing and managing complex symptoms, ensuring that even the smallest details are addressed promptly and thoughtfully. She follows up on labs, imaging, side effects, and supportive care needs with exceptional thoroughness. Patients frequently comment that they feel truly seen and heard under her care.
Even when patients transition to hospice, Lindsay continues to call one to two times per week to check in and offer support, despite regular hospice visits. Her compassion is genuine, her communication exceptional, and her dedication unwavering. She provides not just excellent medical care but profound human care.
Nominated by Sara Tolaney
Myra Tamba, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
While the patients who come through the doors of Dana-Farber are facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives, nurses like Myra Tamba have the ability to transform those moments with compassion, skill, and humanity.
I see Myra every 28 days for a cancer treatment injection. While those appointments are routine in schedule, they are anything but routine in meaning. Living with cancer means living with uncertainty, and the people who walk beside you in that journey matter deeply. Myra has become a steady, reassuring presence in my life.
What makes Myra exceptional is not only her nursing skills, but the way she treats the whole person sitting in front of her. She brings warmth, patience, and a sense of calm that instantly eases any anxiety I may have. She listens. She remembers. She takes the time to connect with me as more than just a patient name on a chart. Myra makes each person feel seen, valued, and supported. I know I’m not the only one because I always see her name written on a whiteboard when I leave with messages of love from other patients.
For me personally, those monthly visits have become moments I look forward to because I know I will be greeted by someone who truly cares. Myra has become a light in my life during a time that could otherwise feel very heavy. Her compassion reminds me that healing is not only about medicine; it is also about human connection, which in today’s world can be rare.
Nurses like Myra represent the very best of her profession. She embodies the empathy, dedication, and quiet strength that patients depend on every day. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of recognition as a top nurse.
Nominated by Sherry Knotek
Stacy Walker, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
My prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tripled since the last visit three months ago, and I was very emotional as I lost my father to prostate cancer. Stacy looked me right in the eye and reminded me that this is why I have been coming every three months from Vermont. As a result, we are catching it early, and that is what Dana-Farber does every day. I am now going through radiation and chose Dana-Farber over other local options. It is the employees like her that make a difference.Nominated by Del Bicking
Jean Donovan, DaVita Brookline Dialysis
Jean Donovan goes above and beyond to ensure patients are treated with respect. She checks in on each person during their treatment, makes schedule adjustments as needed to help patients achieve tasks outside of their usual treatment times, and does so in a way that seems effortless.
She takes time to listen and communicates with the doctors as a liaison to make things smooth and helps to ease stress whenever possible for patients. For example, I remember I had difficulty getting a prescription filled, and I called and left her a message to help me. She went above and beyond to ensure that I got my paperwork done, and I was able to get the medication on time. I only found out after the fact that she was on vacation but still went out of her way to help me. I am so grateful to be in the care of such a tremendously professional and caring nurse.
Nominated by Yvette Layne
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