Nurses Week

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VUH NOMINEES:
• Alyssa Jenkins
• Amy Hailey 
• Anna Irby
• Annabelle Taylor 
• Ashlynn Fillhart
• Chelsea Hummitzsch
• Elaine Cabang
• Gari Tilley
• Hannah Bull
• Kelsey Bouwman
• Kimberley Smith
• Kristina Jamal
• Lauryn Glasser
• Lindsay Taylor
• Lucy Williams
• MacKenzie Grace Carlin
• Mary Jones 
• Maryjo Lopez
• Megan Maines
• Monica Newnam
• Rachel Hoppe
• Rheda Robeson
• Robert Kahenski
• Sara Ellis
• Taylor Stott
• Tia Guarino
• Vadim Barva
• Veronda Tucker
• Zakkiyyah Morrow 

 

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

MONROE CARELL NOMINEES:
• Annie Timmerberg
• Elizabeth Gibson
• Emily Hayes
• Jennifer Wilbanks
• Kate Gillett
• Leslie Speer
• Lisa Trusler
• Madeline Cason
• Mika Poe
• Paige Buhl
• Robin Black
• Sara Anderson
 

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VPH NOMINEES:
• Kelsey Howard
• Lori webber
• Kim Herald
• Greyson Hammons

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VANDERBILT ADULT AMBULATORY DIVISION NOMINEES:
• Amy Adlich
• Andrea H. Orr 
• Anna Irby
• Brittany Jones (Stepp)
• Carroll (Denise) Pannell
• Haley Sullivan
• Hannah Beddoe
• Jamie Lopez
• LaRonda Matthews
• Laura Sollman 
• Lindsay Staiman
• Lisa Quiambao
• Mary J. Jones
• Mary Rutland
• Meghan Jackson
• Michelle Clark
• Michelle Davis
• Michelle Spano
• Teresa Spychalski
• Vadim Barva

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VWCH NOMINEES:
• Amber Shrum
• Ashley Lehew
• Kimberly Paris
• Megan Jones
• Meghan Brewster
• Sherry Pabona
• Sydney Caracciolo

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VBCH NOMINEES
• Andi Pettit
• Candace Yoes
• Erin Nunley
• Heather Keel
• Jennifer Cole
• Marsha Grafton
• Meredith Hayes
• Michaela Smith
• Samantha Galbreath
• Travis Miller

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession.
 

VTHH NOMINEES
• Hannah Hiett
• Heather Moorehead
• Landon Jeans 
• Natasha Lenderman
• Paula Jo Fetter
• Tammy Cawthron
• Wendy Tankersley

History:
Rosamond Gabrielson, a former president of the American Nurses Association, brought her passion for bedside nursing to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 
     
Empowering Nurses: 
She fostered a collaborative environment, valuing the input of staff nurses and encouraging innovation. 
     
Transformative Initiatives: 
Gabe spearheaded Shared Governance and the adoption of the primary nursing model, emphasizing the vital role of nurses in patient care. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a staff nurse who embodies Gabe's collaborative spirit, leadership, and dedication to shared decision making. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A role model who demonstrates collaboration, leadership, and a commitment to shared decision making. 
An advocate for direct care nurses and continuous improvement in patient care.

8 Total Awards:
• Vanderbilt Adult Ambulatory Clinics
• Monroe Carell
• Vanderbilt Bedford Hospital
• Vanderbilt Behavioral Health
• Vanderbilt Health Services
• Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital
• Vanderbilt University Hospital
• Vanderbilt Wilson County Hospital
 

Members of the Nurse Staff Council of each respective entity scores the nominations to select the recipient.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, practicing as a staff nurse in direct care who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence & examples of the following:

The ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare team disciplines resulting in positive outcomes for patients

Leading & encouraging efforts for shared decision making

Participation in the mentorship of students, care partners, new graduate nurses, peers, and/or other members of the healthcare team

A strong sense of inquiry by participating in and promoting nursing research, evidencebased nursing practice, and quality outcomes.

Advocates for the nursing profession
  
 

VHS NOMINEES
• Erin Williams
• Elisabeth "Beth" Cloutier 
• Arlane Howell 

History:
Becky Culpepper served the Vanderbilt University Medical Center community from 1977 to 1995. 
     
Visionary Leader: 
She held roles as assistant clinical professor, assistant hospital director, and director of continuing education, championing staff development and education for nurses at all levels. 
     
Beyond Vanderbilt: 
Becky's dedication to nursing extended beyond Vanderbilt, with previous roles as an instructor and executive director of the Tennessee Nurses Association. 
     
Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes a nurse or faculty member who embodies Becky's commitment to mentorship, education, and professional development within the nursing profession. 
     
Recipient Qualities: 
A mentor and educator dedicated to advancing nursing education and professional development. 
An advocate for the nursing profession, committed to lifelong learning and growth.

Eligibility:
This award is given jointly by Vanderbilt University Medical Center Patient Care Services and Vanderbilt School of Nursing to honor Becky’s many contributions to both areas. The recipient can be a VUMC Nurse or a faculty member at VUSN.

Nomination criteria include:
Mentorship of fellow nursing staff, faculty, or students

Active promotion of the nursing profession

Commitment to professional development at all levels

Recipient demonstrates the following qualities:
Proactively advocates for the nursing profession in decision making, such as policy change advocacy, participates in a nursing professional organization, and lobbying/campaigning on a government level

Successfully integrates mentorship between fellow nursing staff, faculty or student in the School of Nursing (VUSN) and the School of Medicine (VUSM)

Advocates for the advancement of nursing education and professional development for all levels of nursing, such as through orientation and evaluation of new nurses and introduction to innovative ideas in designing nursing curricula

Demonstrates accountability for professional growth, learning, and advancement
 

NOMINEES
• Cheryl Lawson
• Colleen Fortier
• Emma Wilson
• Gretchen McCullough
• Jay Morrison
• Kacy Whittenburg
• Marissa Lemley Brown
• Natasha Domingo
• Nicole Ferreira
• Rebecca Bone
• Sherry Shepard
• Sydney Whisenant

History:
Jerita Payne dedicated over 30 years of exceptional nursing expertise to Vanderbilt University Medical Center. 

A Rising Star: 
Starting as a transplant nurse, she rose to become Director of Clinical Transplant Services, contributing significantly to the program's national prominence. 

Lifelong Learner: 
Jerita earned two master's degrees, demonstrating her commitment to professional growth. 

Inspiring Mentor: 
Her radiant smile and engaging leadership style inspired countless nurses and nurse practitioners. 

Honoring Her Legacy:
The award recognizes an advanced practice nurse who embodies Jerita's qualities: clinical excellence, leadership, and unwavering patient advocacy. 

Recipient Qualities:
A role model who demonstrates clinical excellence, leadership, and professionalism. A compassionate and dedicated advanced practice nurse committed to providing high-quality patient care.

 

Eligibility:
Full-time APRNs (NPs, CNSs, CNMs, and CRNA) active in clinical practice who exemplify the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence and examples of the following:

Education/Practice/Research:
Clinical expertise in selected specialty

Participation in independent/collaborative research or evidence-based practice specific to clinical specialty, and/or presents poster or publication of research

Active participation in the education of RN staff, house staff, and peers

Mentorship of new APRN’s in the transition to professional practice

Leadership/Professionalism:
Consistent demonstration of a leadership role/role model within the APRN cluster or specialty practice site/service

Active participation as a member of national, regional, or local nursing associations, and in Grand Rounds, Mortality & Morbidity committees, and/or quality improvement processes

 

NOMINEES
• Amanda Bradley
• Ashley Johnson
• Catherine (Keqin) Qian 
• Jeneth Aquino
• Jennifer Pendergrast 
• Jennifer Powers
• Julia Peredo
• Kim Isenberg
• Kimberly Ezell
• Meghann Wilson
• Nancy Long 
• Sally Dye
• Stephen Thomas
• Tina Nguyen
• Victoria Buechel

History: 
Adrienne Ames dedicated over 35 years to Vanderbilt University Medical Center, shaping nursing culture through her transformative leadership. 

Champion of Excellence: 
She fostered a culture of excellence and innovation, evident in her contributions to launching key programs like LifeFlight, the Breast Clinic, and Home Care. 

Empowering Nurses: 
As a founder of Shared Governance and creator of Vanderbilt's first nursing bylaws, Adrienne empowered nurses and fostered collaboration. 

Honoring Her Legacy: 
The award recognizes a nurse leader who embodies Adrienne's qualities: inspiring others, creating a shared vision, and fostering a culture of excellence. 

Recipient Qualities: 
An inspiring leader who motivates others and creates a shared vision for the future. 

A champion of excellence who fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, currently practicing in an RN leadership role, who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently demonstrating evidence and examples of the following:

Consistently leads others, creates a shared vision

Leads and encourages shared decision-making

Fosters a culture of excellence among those they lead

Empowers and elevates others

Actively participates in the mentoring of staff and promotion of advancement (i.e., clinical ladders)

 

NOMINEES
• Amanda Dickert
• Amber Monaghan
• Anna Maria Gaw
• April Buggs
• Ashley Ried
• Beth Sparks
• Beverly Woodward
• Connor Rice
• Elaine Niblett
• Frank Demarco
• Heather Donelson
• Jeri Clements
• Jessica Shirley
• Katha Rodgers 
• Kimberly Burkeen
• Lolita Kelso
• Marissa Lemley Brown
• Megan Cyrulik
• Meghan Graves
• Michelle Terrell
• Nicole Tan
• Paige Barnes
• Ryan Hamman
• Shelby Brady 
• Sherri Werkhaven 
• Wendy Howell
• Whitney McKelvie 

History: 
Nancy Wells dedicated 25 years to championing evidence-based practice at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Empowering Through Knowledge: 
She ignited a passion for research among nurses, empowering them to transform patient care.

Cultivating Research: 
Nancy created the Evidence-Based Practice Fellowship and the journal "The Empowered Nurse," providing avenues for nurses to explore and disseminate research.

Honoring Her Legacy: 
The award recognizes a nurse who embodies Nancy's dedication to research, mentorship, and evidence-based practice.

Recipient Qualities:
A role model who integrates research into clinical practice and inspires others to do the same.

A leader in evidence-based practice, committed to using research to improve patient care. 
 

Eligibility:
Full-time RN, employed in a nursing position, who exemplifies the essential elements of nursing excellence by consistently using evidence. 

Established to recognize an RN who uses research findings as a basis for practice innovation or provides leadership for evidence-based practice changes in the clinical setting. Behaviors reflective of using evidence include:

Questions practice

Actively encourages other staff to engage in and use research findings in clinical practice

Develops pathways for others to get involved in research and evidence-based practice

Consistently leads and encourages efforts that support research and evidence-based practice to improve patient care

 

NOMINEES
• Amanda Mock
• Jensine Russell
• Kathy Watts
• Megan T Martin
• Patti Runyan
• Shannon M. Blaisdell