Welcome to a remarkable project—the biennial Excellence in Nursing honors, which celebrates exemplary nurses practicing in the Greater Chesapeake Bay Region!
Earlier this year, we surveyed local nurses practicing in Anne Arundel, Prince George’s, Queen Anne’s, Kent, Talbot, and Dorchester counties. We asked them to nominate and, therefore, honor the most commendable of their peers in 16 categories of nursing specialty. The response was incredible. We thank the many, and very busy, nurses for their valuable time and consideration.
This project is truly professionals nominating professionals. This was not open to the public. Only licensed nurses and medical professionals contributed to this survey. We also meticulously vetted nurse credentials and current licensing with the Maryland Board of Nursing, a division of the Maryland Department of Health.
And although the nominating process is kept confidential, we did ask each survey contributor’s “reason for nomination” of their peer(s). And it is those responses that are truly endearing and exemplify what teamwork, leadership, camaraderie, and family mean to this profession. You’ll read remarks about most of the listed honorees.
Congratulations to this year’s Excellence in Nursing honorees!
Listed alphabetically by first name under each nursing specialty.
Advanced Practice
Masters prepared nurse in an advanced practice setting; clinical nurse specialist, certified nurse midwife, nurse practitioner, nurse psychotherapist, CRNA
Aileen Mendez of Johns Hopkins Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Baltimore; “Aileen is one of the only CRNAs in the state to provide anesthesia for pediatric patients undergoing open heart surgery. In addition, she co-administers a mentoring program for high school students interested in careers in healthcare. She is one extraordinary CRNA!”
Alicia Blake-Hall of Eat Healthy to B-Healthy, Pasadena; “Alicia is kind, caring, and very knowledgeable.”
Alison Benko of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Allison goes above and beyond to ensure that all patients in the emergency department are cared for in an appropriate and timely manner. She a valued team member and greatly appreciated by all staff.”
Ashley Fenton of The Collective NP Clinic LLC, Severna Park
Brittany Peed of OnSite Medical House Calls, Annapolis; “Goes above and beyond standard job requirements.”
Caroline Sica of UM Shore Regional Health, Cambridge; “Caroline is an extremely strong and well versed advocate for her patients and staff. Speaks to the heart from her heart. Her genuine empathic engagement with patients and staff is commendable and appreciated.”
Catherine Gvozden of Gvozden Pediatrics, Millersville; “Caring and dedicated practitioner.”
Cesar Visurraga of Visurraga Enterprises LLC, Baltimore; “Cesar is a tireless CRNA dedicated to optimizing patient safety and satisfaction with his anesthesia services.”
Clare Ross of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Excellent patient care and takes the time to educate patients. Follows appropriate care guidelines. Is responsive to patient and nursing questions.”
Debra Renee Edsall of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Cares for each individual patient ‘s physical, mental, and emotional needs. It is obvious she cares about each person and does everything she can to promote health and improve their quality of life.”
Diana Gail Shorter of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Gail is a spirited team member and is collaborative and thoughtful in all of her interactions with patients and her team.”
Diana Gomez of Luminis Health, Annapolis
Hannah Mules of Gvozden Pediatrics, Millersville
Jaclyn Crawford of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Advocate for the mentall ill patient for two decades.”
Justin Todd Smith of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Justin always goes above and beyond for his patients, never hesitates to take the extra time to comfort or explain things to the patients or family members and he is absolutely amazing with pediatric patients.”
Leslie Fox of Peace of Mind Mental Health Services LLC, Easton; “Leslie is an outstanding nurse practitioner. She always goes above and beyond for her patients. She is supportive to her colleagues.”
Leslie Lawson of Maryland Oncology Hematology, Annapolis; “Leslie is energetic and dedicated to patient care. She’s always interested in learning more about how to best care for the patients.”
Lori Mann of Arcadia Assisted Living, Gambrills / Chester; “Lori has a wonderful heart will do anything for anyone no questions asked. She by far has been the best DN I’ve encountered.”
Nicole Bachmann of OnSite Medical House Calls, Annapolis; “Patients love her; she goes above and beyond.”
Patricia Lancaster of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Excellent patient care and takes the time to educate patients. Follows appropriate care guidelines. Is responsive to patient and nursing questions.”
Rachel Sweeney of Maryland Primary Care Physicians, Arnold
Robyn Lanasa of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Provides excellent care to her patients, and educates them on self-management of their heart conditions. Responsive to patients and colleagues.”
Sarah Freburger of OnSite Medical House Calls, Chester; “Goes above and beyond standard job requirements.”
Susan Delean-Botkin of FamilyCare Of Easton, Easton; “Susan is a wonderful nurse practitioner providing excellent primary health care to people of all ages in the community.”
Wendy Towers of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Wendy is a very knowledgeable, caring, and respectful. She is always offering her helping hand in the recovery room, without batting an eye.”
Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nursing
Provides care for patients during elective or reconstructive surgery processes, inclusive of non-invasive procedures (such as administering Botox), therapeutics, monitoring the healing process, and helping facilitate communication between physicians and patients.
Christiane McCombie of Chesapeake Plastic Surgery, Annapolis
Dana Eyerly of Bella Rose Medical Aesthetics & Wellness, Chester; “So kind, helpful, non-judgmental. Dana is an instant pick me up!”
Doris Tate of Bayside Aesthetics & Wellness, St. Michaels; “Doris continually expands her knowledge and develops her skills to provide quality results for each patient. She is an experienced NP who looks at each patient’s health history as she is developing an appropriate treatment plan.”
Katie Clements of Maryland Primary Care Physicians, Arnold
Kelly Sutter of Skin Wellness MD, Annapolis
Mary Cofran of Adoro Medical Spa, Severna Park; “Mary is a meticulous aesthetic nurse, that delivers excellent results to her patients but also is caring.”
Rachel Markow of Perpetual Skin, Annapolis; “Truly an expert, she is up to date on cutting edge treatments and her treatment plan is individualized for each patient. I trust her ethics and her clinical skills implicitly.”
Susan Delean-Botkin of FamilyCare Of Easton, Easton
Ambulatory Nursing
Clinic, office, and other ambulatory care settings, employee health, occupational health, industrial health, infection control
Brenda Alexander of Maryland Oncology Hematology, Easton; “She does a great job caring for patients and leading her team of similarly excellent nurses.”
Brooke Jones of Maryland Oncology Hematology, Annapolis; “She does a great job caring for patients and leading her team of similarly excellent nurses.”
Georgia Orr of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “As a veteran wound care specialist, Georgia goes above and beyond every single day for the patients she cares for. She carries in depth knowledge of her craft and shares that knowledge through teaching and coaching of patients and their families.”
James Yoo of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie
Janat Bashir of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie; “Janat’s dedication to the field of Women’s Health is unparalleled. She strives to care for the whole patient, providing unbiased comprehensive care to every patient she meets.”
Jennifer King of Gvozden Pediatrics, Millersville
Lauren Princiotta of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Lauren works hard to make sure her patient’s needs are met each and everyday. She brings such a positive light to the office and her passion is truly inspiring.”
Linda Wilt of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Linda has been an essential part of the Pain Center team for over 20 years. Her knowledge about types of pain, interventional injections, and other testing procedures have benefitted her patients to find more comfort and improved quality of life.”
Nicole Vojacek of OnSite Medical House Calls, Pasadena / Denton; “Goes above and beyond her standard job requirements.”
Shira Leighty of The Sandel Duggal Center for Plastic Surgery, Annapolis; “She is an amazing and affectionate nurse. Not only does she manage the team she takes exceptional care of our patients.”
Behavioral Health
Behavioral health and addictive services
Ashley Fenton of The Collective NP Clinic LLC, Severna Park
Brianna Chester of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Brianna is a calm and introspective RN who is able to manage not only the daily patient needs but also the occasional crisis that impacts patients who are acutely ill.”
Jill Burgholzer of Multiple Affiliations / Independent, Stevensville; “Jill is an excellent behavioral health clinician offering much needed services in Eastern Shore where there are relatively few behavioral health providers. She is caring, compassionate, and skilled in her specialty.”
Julie McLain of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Julie is focused on all that is good, as well as the areas of improvement that patients must work on. Her empathic and kind approach, opens padlocked doors to hurting souls.”
Kim Butler of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Kim is the most wonderful peer to have in nursing. She provides care with compassion and integrity, promoting effective communication, teamwork, and shared decision-making in the delivery of psychiatric care.”
Leslie Fox of Peace of Mind Mental Health Services LLC, Easton; “Leslie is an amazing nurse practitioner. She is non-judgmental, understanding, and caring. She goes above and beyond for her patients and colleagues.”
Case/Quality Management, Managed Care Informatics
Community or hospital case manager, quality management, risk management, infection prevention, patient safety, utilization management, and informatics
Alyssa Chadwick of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Consistently goes the extra mile for her patients. Ensures that medical care is appropriate according to national standards.”
Amy Custis of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Amy stands out as a leader in her department. She takes on new tasks and the job of orienting new team members.”
Consuella Bowen of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Consuella is a vital part of not only her department but the several other departments she serves. She works tirelessly day in and day out to assist with the best possible transitions for our patients.”
Lauren Sauter of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie; “As an informatics specialist and RN, Lauren’s attention to detail and ability to find the root cause of an issue is outstanding.”
Stephanie Tibbs of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Stephanie is a great asset. She is organized and detail oriented. Her communication to the nurses, patients, and families is above all the rest.”
Stephanie Wolf of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Stephanie works very hard to discover patient needs and to find the best possible options for them to return to their highest level of function.”
Clinical Education
Nurse educators responsible for overseeing or administering ongoing clinical education and resources
Alicia Blake-Hall of Eat Healthy to B-Healthy, Pasadena; “She has a deep understanding of diabetes management and treatment, which allows her to effectively educate both patients and other healthcare professionals.”
Allison Hawkins of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Allison is the Pediatric Nurse Educator at AAMC, a strong advocate of excellent patient care, and ebraces new technologies to educate all staff members.”
Ashley Fenton of The Collective NP Clinic LLC, Severna Park; “Dr. Fenton is an assistant professor at Johns Hopkins School of Nursing (JHUSON). Her practice experience includes community health clinics, outpatient mental health, weight management programs, public health research, and much more.”
Danette Readling of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “As a Nursing Educator on the elderly unit, Danette’s positivity and support have made an extraordinary impact on both patients and staff.”
Geraldine Raber of Luminis Health, Annapolis
Glenda Miller of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie; “Glenda is a committed clinical educator! She is always available to help us no matter what we need. She encourages each one of us, checking in to see if we are okay.”
Jean Little of Luminis Health, Annapolis
Stephanie Blades of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Stephanie is the educator for the Women and Children’s units within Shore Regional Health in Easton. She is one of the most amazing nurse educators. She is kind, compassionate, and patient.”
Talisha Tilghman of Optum Maryland, Denton; “She is a visionary educator whose dedication to excellence has made a profound impact on the professional development of nursing support staff as a self-employee entrepreneur. As a Nurse Educator, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of nursing practice through innovative educational initiatives and programs.”
Critical Care
Adult ICU/CCU, cath lab, oncology, special procedures
Kelsey Walters of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Worked as a PCT on ICU, and transitioned to a new grad nurse on ICU. Is an asset to the unit and organization.”
Emergency
Emergency department, flight, ambulance, pre-hospital, telephone triage
Amanda Collins of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Cares about patient outcomes and wellbeing, and is dedicated, kind, and supportive.”
Amanda Nelson of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Kind, caring, and goes above and beyond for her patients.”
Arlene Brown of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Arlene approaches each interaction with kindness, understanding, and a genuine desire to alleviate suffering and provide comfort to patients and their families during times of crisis.”
Bobbie Jo Trossbach of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Bobbie Jo shows exemplary leadership in her clinical coordinator role. She is dedicated to providing quality care to the patients in our rural health community by collaborating with staff and our EMS partners to ensure positive outcomes!”
Lauren Messick of UM Shore Regional Health, Cambridge; “Lauren is kind, compassionate, a valued team member, and above all a fierce patient advocate. She makes sure each and every patient is cared for in an appropriate manner and advocates for them to be involved in making decisions for their own health care.”
Leslie Collier of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Leslie is an outstanding Emergency Department nurse, providing the highest quality of care to the patient’s who enter the hospital at Easton’s doors. She has previously been awarded the Daisy Award for exemplary patient care.”
Megan Stubbs of UM Shore Regional Health, Cambridge; “Megan has worked for Shore Regional Health for over 25 years. She functions as a charge nurse, preceptor to new staff members, and is an asset to our team. Megan has a wealth of knowledge and clinical experience for the emergency department.”
Melanie Gale of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Shows the upmost care and compassion for her patients and coworkers. Is always on top of it and one step ahead.”
Steven Pringle of UM Shore Regional Health, Queenstown; “Steven is very knowledgeable and passionate with his patients. He never hesitates to jump in and help with extra critical patients and is always willing to help educate patients and staff.”
Emerging Nurse Leader
Inclusive of charge nurses, assistant nurse managers, supervisors; first-line nurse leaders are those professionals who are responsible for overseeing first-level nursing services
Angela Tremper of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Angie is a team player on the unit. She can often be found organizing and cleaning up the entire unit when she is the charge nurse. She was recently promoted to Clinical Supervisor of a new unit.”
Caitlin Coutu of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Caitlin is a rising professional in our nursing facility. Takes on numerous roles and excels at patient care.”
Chelsea Compton of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Chelsea is a star among nurses. She takes on extensive responsibility and provides frontline leadership to her team.”
Diane White of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Diane’s exceptional teamwork and caring nature have made a profound impact on our team and patients. Diane’s leadership fosters a sense of unity and cooperation among the staff.”
Emily Bird of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Always teaching, looking out for you and your patients, and there when you need her.”
Emma Durham of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “As a new Clinical Supervisor, Emma has quickly become an invaluable asset to our team through her calm demeanor and support for her staff.”
Helen Foxwell of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Helen embodies an emerging leader. She is driven, compassionate, and dedicated to making a positive impact on both colleagues and patients.”
Jaclyn Crawford of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton
Julie McClyment of Luminis Health, Annapolis
Natalie Johnston of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “She makes every effort to be fair to all staff. She listens to the needs of the unit and works hard to make sure we are taken care of.”
Rachel Bieler of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Always teaching, looking out for you and your patients, and there when you need her.”
Sarah Knobel of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “As a Clinical Supervisor on the Acute Care of the Elderly Unit, Sarah is an exemplary leader whose positivity and organizational skills have a profound impact on our team and patients.”
Shannon Heim of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Shannon moved from a staff nurse position into her current clinical coordinator position three years ago. She has done very well to understand the business and organizational needs of her department.”
Shawne Davis of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Shawne’s leadership growth has been a pleasure to witness over the last three years. She is patient and team member focused.”
Sonia Antao of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “She works tirelessly to support the staff.”
Stacy Dion of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Stacy is such a selfless, caring, hardworking clinical nurse coordinator! She is always going above and beyond to help not only the patients in same day surgery, but the staff, patients, and their families in all of our areas!”
William Shertenlieb of UM Shore Regional Health, Cambridge; “This year, Bill has transitioned into the charge nurse role at his facility. Bill has truly thrived in this role. He is truly an asset to our team.”
Home Health/Hospice
Staff nurse in home health care settings, hospice, in-patient hospice
Abbey Ludeau of Hospice of the Chesapeake, Pasadena; “An exemplary nurse who treats with compassion and the utmost care.”
Nicole Vojacek of OnSite Medical House Calls, Pasadena / Denton; “Goes above and beyond her standard job requirements.”
Scott Morehouse of AccentCare Hospice & Palliative Care, Columbia; “As an in-home Hospice Nurse, Scott’s ability to provide unbiased, compassionate care to patients is unmatched. He is kind, smart, and thorough.”
Long-Term Care Rehabilitation
Nursing home, gerontology, services for disabilities, rehabilitative services, subacute/transitional unit
Beverly Somerville of Acts Retirement-Life Communities (Heron Point), Chestertown; “Beverly is a strong advocate for resident rights and quality of life, actively engaging in initiatives to enhance the care and services provided within the long-term care setting. Her nursing leadership has had a profound impact on the lives of residents and staff alike.”
Jamie Merritt of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Jamie is the epitome of a rehab nurse. Her tenacious spirit lifts up patients and her care and commitment to the nursing profession is rehab is unwavering.”
Joan Gannon of HeartFields Assisted Living at Easton, Easton; “Joan goes above and beyond for each resident here at HeartFields. Even donating her time to members of the community not looking for assisted living.”
Lori Mann of Arcadia Assisted Living, Gambrills / Chester; “Lori cares for our residents and anyone around her. She is the most caring, loving person I know!”
Renee Merson of Complete Care Corsica Hills, Centreville; “Renee is a kind, caring, and knowledgeable nurse. She is an asset to not only her team but to all the patients and residents that are cared for at Corsica Hills.”
Maternal-Child/Women’s Health
Obstetrics, gynecology, women’s health, nursery, pediatrics, NICU, PICU, Peds ER, early childhood/early intervention services
Catherine Gvozden of Gvozden Pediatrics, Millersville; “Caring and dedicated practitioner.”
Christine Gates of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Chris is an effective networker with the ability to work autonomously within the organization. Chris is skilled, flexible, and focused on details.”
Danielle Yourgevidge of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie; “Danielle has dedicated her career to Women’s and Children’s services. She works every day to provide comprehensive care to high-risk pregnant women. Her positive attitude creates an environment of care and compassion.”
Medical/Surgical
Acute or chronic medical and surgical nursing specialties
Amanda Kulabonish of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Amanda consistently demonstrates what it means to be a great team player. She is always ready to lend a hand, offer support, and share her expertise with her colleagues.”
Angela Tremper of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Angie exemplifies the highest standards of nursing through her dedication, compassion, and exceptional clinical skills. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and her proactive approach to problem-solving make her an invaluable asset to our team.”
Arianna Graziadei of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Arianna has been a dedicated member of our nursing team for over 10 years, consistently demonstrating a level of professionalism, compassion, and expertise that sets a high standard for others.”
Britney Reyes of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Britney is a seasoned nurse on the ACE Unit. She brings a calming energy to every situation. Britney mentors and educates new nurses in a respectful uplifting manner.”
Brittany Roper of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Brittany’s compassionate approach to nursing ensures that every patient feels cared for and respected. She takes the time to listen, understand, and address the individual needs of her patients.”
Gilbert Wairia of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Gilbert’s ability to remain composed and empathetic in challenging situations is truly commendable. His calm demeanor and professional approach ensure that even the most difficult patients receive the care and respect they deserve.”
Jasmine Simms of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Her warm personality, her connecting bedside manner along with her knowledge and dedication to care her patients to the best of her ability makes her one of a kind.”
Jennifer Collins of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Jennifer is hard working, always puts her patients first, and serves as a resource person for our new nurses. She always lends a helping hand regardless of her work load.”
Jessica O’Connell of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Jessica is truly the sunshine of our nursing team, bringing warmth, positivity, and exceptional care to every patient she encounters. Her cheerful demeanor and compassion make her a beloved figure among both patients and colleagues.”
Leigh Tomey of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Leigh is the epitome of what a nurse should be. In fact, she is better than what a nurse should be. She goes above and beyond for her patients and colleagues every single day. She truly is a vessel of inspiration.”
Leland Leaverton of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Leland is an exceptional nurse whose dedication, skill, and positive attitude make him an invaluable asset to our team. His enthusiasm and positive attitude create a motivating and collaborative work environment.”
Lindsay Kimbles of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Lindsay is one of those nurses that you know if she were taking care of your family member they are in good hands. She is very compassionate in care and makes sure her patient’s needs are taken care of.”
Lynda Kramer of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Lynda is an outstanding nurse who consistently demonstrates calmness, exceptional clinical skills, and dedication to patient care. Her expert clinical skills and sound judgment ensure that the highest quality of care is delivered, even in the most challenging situations.”
Meredith Clemens of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “I am honored to nominate Meredith for her exceptional dedication, attention to detail, and compassionate care that she consistently provides to her patients and their families.”
Patricia Annette Moore of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Excels at patient care and team approach to total joint replacement surgery/recovery.”
Rongli Liu of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Rongli is known for her extraordinary kindness and sweetness, which greatly enhance the care and comfort of our patients. Rongli’s gentle and compassionate nature makes her a beloved figure among both patients and colleagues.”
Shantice Keene of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Shantice’s compassionate nature shines through in every interaction she has with her patients. She approaches each individual with kindness and understanding, ensuring that they feel valued and respected.”
Shauna Johnson of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Shauna is an exceptional nurse and deserves to be recognized for her extraordinary care. I have watched her support families in the most difficult times of their lives and show care as if they were her family. Shauna makes every life better that she touches, she is a ray of sunshine on the Ace Unit.
Tara Binnall of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Tara goes above and beyond to make sure her patients feel safe and supported, often taking extra time to address their concerns and needs.”
Timah Ricketts of Tidal Health, Salisbury / Seaford; “Timah approaches every aspect of her role with professionalism, integrity, and a deep sense of compassion for the individuals under her care.”
Nurse Executive Leadership
Inclusive of Chief Nursing Officers (CNOs) Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), Deans, executive vice presidents of nursing, or equivalent, these professionals are responsible for leadership at the executive table; designing strategic, operational delivery systems and directing patient care services/education throughout an organization
Christine Frost of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “As our Chief Nursing Officer, Christine has demonstrated unparalleled dedication to our nursing staff and the community we serve. Christine’s commitment to excellence is evident in her tireless efforts to support and uplift our nursing team. She fosters a culture of professional growth, continuous learning, and mutual respect, ensuring that every nurse feels valued and empowered.”
Jennifer “Jenny” Bowie of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “I am writing this nomination for Jenny because she comes out of her office and spends time with our team listening to challenges and celebrating successes. Recently on a weekend Jenny went to all four of our sites at Shore to spend time with nurses. She is always willing to spend face time and to help us get to a better place.”
Tisha Thompson of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Tisha stands as a beacon of inspiration within our institution, leading with compassion, integrity, and a visionary approach to nursing administration. She has not only transformed our organization’s approach to patient care but has extended her impact beyond our walls through dedicated community outreach initiatives.”
Nursing Leadership
Inclusive of clinical nurse managers, coordinators, directors; these middle management nurse leaders are often responsible for overseeing several units, departments, or service lines within an organization
Amy Bradley of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Amy’s most remarkable qualities is her eagerness to embrace practice initiatives and her unwavering dedication to improving patient care.”
Bobbie Jo Trossbach of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Patient advocate and great attention to detail, and is proficient in problem solving.”
Brittany Adams of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Brittany is an exceptional leader and has functioned in a variety of nursing roles. Brittany leads with ease. Brittany’s focus is always patients first, with optimal patient outcomes.”
Cassandra Bilbrough of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Cassandra is the clinical coordinator for Acute Care and is a strong leader and role model for us all. She goes above and beyond and will jump in and help wherever she is needed!”
Christine Usilton of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “As the Nursing Director on the acute care for the elderly unit, Christine exemplifies outstanding leadership, dedication, and compassion. Her commitment to providing the highest quality of care for our elderly patients is truly remarkable.”
Dennis Kelly of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Dennis leads the busiest ED in the state of MD. Through Dennis’ collaborative approach and openness to shared governance, our ED throughput times are dramatically improved. Dennis’ team values his leadership style, visibility, and humbleness.”
Devra Cockerille of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Devra advanced to Clinical Director Nursing. Though her home unit was sad to see her go, we have high hopes of her carrying on the culture and standards of the ACE Unit hospital-wide.”
Jan Clemons of Luminis Health, Annapolis
Jason Weaver of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Jason can be counted on to not only meet the needs of the moment but to also provide ongoing support to all the teams across the organization.”
Jessica Genrich of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Jess is an incredible leader. She is kind, calm, and compassionate. Her actions and decisions demonstrate that she is mindful of the best interest of staff, patients, and families.”
Kari Mimnaugh of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Kari is a thriving Nurse Director who embraces challenges with flexibility, grace, unique innovations. Nurses experience professional nirvana in Kari’s departments.”
Kimberly Kral of UM Shore Regional Health, Cambridge; “Kim is the clinical coordinator for Cambridge Emergency Department through Shore Regional Health. She is the oil that keeps our machine moving most days. She always has a positive attitude and is willing to help wherever she can.”
Lynn Parmentier of UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Glen Burnie; “Lynn is the Clinical Nurse Coordinator at the BWMC Center for Advanced Fetal Care. She is a champion for thorough, just, and equitable care for our patients.”
Mary Collins of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Clinical nurse manager who is an excellent leader, very supportive of her staff, and an advocate for our patients.”
Mary Grace Hensell of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Mary Grace is the absolute best director you could ask for! She is knowledgeable, caring, and respectful.”
Sandra Prochaska of UM Shore Regional Health, Chestertown; “Sandy is the manager of ER and Acute Care in Chestertown. In addition to managing her two units, she is very involved in the daily operations of the other departments within the hospital. Sandy is a resource for all and always willing to help.”
Tara Smith of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Excellent leadership skills, organization skills, and coordinates teamwork on large nursing unit.”
Perioperative
Perioperative, recovery room, day surgery, operating room
Christine Hoyer of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “A dedicated nurse of 36 years, 33 of those in the operating room. Worked through covid. Can equally scrub and circulate all cases. Has compassion and encompasses diversity in her everyday performance.”
Henriette Kelley of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Henriette is a very dedicated and professional Operating Room Nurse. She is compassionate, kind, and a great role model.”
Holly Frase of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Holly is a superb PACU nurse. She is hardworking, caring, and an excellent leader in the relief charge roll! We are so lucky to have her.”
Martha Delsing of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Martha is an effective leader for her team. She is able to solve problems, develop ideas to help the staff, and is very flexible, supportive, and empathetic.”
Meghan Johnson of Luminis Health, Annapolis; “Excellent clinical nurse, preceptor to new nurses, and advocate for patients and staff.”
Public Health/Community/School
Public health, school, forensic, transplant coordinator, telehealth, parish, and corrections/prison nursing
Shannon Temple of UM Shore Regional Health, Easton; “Shannon’s leadership has been instrumental in ensuring that survivors receive comprehensive, trauma-informed care throughout the forensic examination process. She has worked tirelessly to establish protocols and procedures that prioritize the safety, dignity, and well-being of survivors.”
Stacy Thompson of Hurlock Elementary School / Dorchester County Public Schools, Hurlock; “Stacy has been a nurse for the Dorchester County School System for almost 20 years. She has spent all of that time working at Hurlock Elementary School. Her students love her and so does her staff. She truly is one of Dorchester’s finest!”
