2024 Recipients
15 Colorado Nurses Are Honored As Nightingale Recipients From 78 Selected As 2024 Luminaries During The Gala On Saturday, May 18th, 2024
DENVER, Colo. -- Monday, May 20, 2024 -- Seventy-eight Colorado nurses from across Colorado were honored as Nightingale Luminaries at a live event held on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at the Hilton Denver Inverness.
The Nightingale Luminaries represent the best of more than 110,000 registered nurses in Colorado and are recognized for their leadership, advocacy, and innovation. What the nurses have in common is their commitment to actions and outcomes in caring for their patients, their profession, and their communities.
Fifteen of the luminaries were selected by the CNF state committee to receive the highest honor of Nightingale Award recipient. They are:
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievements by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice:
Karen Wilson, MN, RN, CGRN, CTTS: As a cancer navigator at Advent Health Parker, Karen has a specific focus supporting patients with colon and lung cancers. She also has a passion for advocating for firefighters. Cancer is the number one cause of morbidity and mortality among firefighters. A ten-minute low dose CT scan of the chest can be critical in detecting lung cancer and is an important tool in identifying lung cancers in their early stage when they can be treated and increase long-term survival rates. Although lung cancer screening programs are common, offering a free lung cancer screening program is remarkable. Karen worked with multiple stakeholders across the hospital to develop a free low dose lung CT scan for firefighters. In addition, she is a tireless volunteer and advocates for early screening and detection of cancer through education at community health fairs and other events. She holds leadership roles in countless community cancer awareness organizations and also volunteers for other community organizations including Eastern Star Ladies Masonic Organization, Heritage Camps for Adoptive Families, teaches health-related topics for Girl Scouts, and makes meals for veterans and their families through the VA Fisher House. She also promotes health-related community activities teaching anti-vaping and smoking education for middle school and high school students and teaches tobacco cessation classes to the community. Karen truly has a servant heart and dedicates countless hours contributing to health equity, the profession, and the local community.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice:
Andrea Pacheco, LPN: Andrea is the Clinical Care Manager of four clinics which are part of the Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center in Walsenberg. Andrea’s duties include education, community relations, physician and employee collaboration, and financial management. She creates an environment that promotes community within the clinics she manages. Andrea also works with the youth of the community in such activities as science projects, sports, and is a member of the school board. She works to spread knowledge concerning health issues that face the community including diabetes and hypertension . She was responsible for bringing a Medication Assistance Program to the community to assist those who are dealing with addiction. Andrea participates in school activities and in the community health fair, which allows members of the community to receive health care that is affordable.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing:
Bethany Bernal, BSN, RN, SANE-A, SANE-P: Bethany is a Forensic Nurse Examiner Coordinator at Common Spirit Mercy Hospital in Durango. During mission work in an East African country in 2022, Bethany collaborated with a local midwife association, an international health initiative organization, and a local hospital to conduct training for midwives. This project played a significant role in addressing limited access to quality maternal and newborn services. Back at home in Durango, Bethany contributed to the development of a rural Forensic Nurse Examiner Fellowship program. The successful program spreads across five states and has 115 fellows participating. She was instrumental in passage of a new law in 2022 which allows emergency departments to dispense a seven-day supply of antibiotics to survivors of sexual assault. Survivors can now leave the ED with their medication in hand, which increases compliance and decreases shame. Bethany has been Chairperson for her hospital’s local nurse governance body and is a representative at the corporate/system level nurse governing body. Through a Forensic Nurse Examiner workgroup, Bethany collaborated across a three-state hospital system to standardize charting forms, streamline policies, and implement best practices resulting in patients receiving a higher level of care. She displays a strong commitment to her community through her volunteer efforts including providing phlebotomy services at the local health fair and providing services during the COVID-19 pandemic response. Bethany delivers presentations and provides training to law enforcement agencies about sexual assault, Intimate Partner Violence, strangulation, evidence collection, analyzation, and testimony. She also provides awareness and education at a local college campus in support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Community Nursing by a Licensed Practical Nurse:
Barbara Kent, LPN, Primary Care: Barbara is the lead LPN in the Primary Care Clinic at VA Western Colorado Health Care System in Grand Junction. Barbara has exhibited commitment to excellence in the care of Veterans since 2006. She is a skillful LPN who serves as an expert in care delivery, VA Systems, and nursing operations. She supported standardization of "pre-visits" for primary care, creating more time for communication and care between the nurse and Veteran. She also supported a pilot integrating nursing at the front desk to meet the walk up needs for Veterans. She led the team that piloted a process for moving veterans through their primary care appointments more effectively and efficiently. Barbara has been recognized for her work in prevention, providing information and instructions to Veterans to support healthy living. Barbara sits on multiple committees including Ethics, Women's Health, Flu/COVID, Advocacy, and Communication She is known as the "boots on the ground" planner for the daily flu clinics. These clinics are recognized for high function, integration of student learning and high volume care, having a positive impact on the health of her community. Barbara contributes positively to the image of nursing, the VA and the role of the LPN.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Long Term Care:
Shina Kean, RN: Shina is a Staff Nurse at Larchwood Inns Skilled Nursing and Post-Acute Rehab in Grand Junction. Shina applied the principles of Resident Centered Care before it became a long term care model. She educates herself on each resident's medical and psychosocial needs to be able to encourage and support the resident and family to live with the highest quality of life possible. She establishes trusting relationships with residents and their family members and uses ordinary conversations and moments to educate families on disease processes and interventions. She leads the Risk Management team to review and audit care areas to ensure that processes and delivery of care is optimal. She annually reviews all nursing policies and procedures, applying knowledge of any new or changing regulatory requirements and making changes when necessary to ensure compliance. Shina is the certified Infection Preventionist for the facility, establishing policies and procedures and educating staff, residents, families and guests regarding infection prevention and control. Shina assisted in the development of an orientation program for onboarding new nurses and CNAs. She serves as a CNA instructor and established a training program that not only serves the facility but the community. She developed the first Medication Aide program on the Western Slope. She precepts LPN and RN students and established a clinical site for local nursing programs. Shina is also active in the community. She volunteers in "Operation Interdependence" by packing care packages for active military members, participates in the children's toy drive, volunteers at Mesa County Sheriff's Office, and Volunteers for the 5K Run to support the Alzheimer's Association.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long Term Care:
Sarah Schoeder, LPN: Sarah is Director of Wellness Initiatives at Eaton Senior Communities in Arvada. Sarah works tirelessly to meet seniors needs by coordinating on site programs including podiatry, ophthalmology , dentistry, audiology and communication device services, acupuncture, mammography , massage therapy, dermatology ,chiropractic treatments and even Dog Grooming for the seniors’ companions. She presents educational programs and schedules speakers on wellness. She spends countless hours doing community outreach for transportation for seniors. Sarah helped to develop the program and actively tutors students on site for the Metropolitan State University Integrated Health Care Management Program. She coordinates with Regis PT students and PIMA Medical Institute interns. She also coordinates with students from the University of Colorado Department of Bioengineering Center for Inclusive Design to assist seniors on site with cell phone usage, safe use of walkers and a pilot study for fall prevention and safety. Sarah participated in the pilot project with the United Healthcare Optum Assisted Living Plan. Currently this plan serves 1/3 of the seniors at Eaton Senior Communities with onsite NP and a RN Case Manager. She is President of the Jefferson County Council on Aging . She has presented at National and International Conferences on programs that impact the lives of seniors.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Advanced Practice Nursing:
Sarah Cope, MSN, FNP-C: Sarah is a Nurse Practitioner and Co-Medical Director of the Transitional Care Unit at Denver Health. Sarah provides medical oversight for an inpatient transitional care unit for patients with complex discharge needs. Her work is rooted in the belief that every patient deserves compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique circumstances. She achieves this by steering an interdisciplinary team that includes nursing, rehabilitation services, and psychosocial support. Sarah exhibits excellence in nursing professional practice, not only through clinical expertise and innovation, but also by significantly reducing cost. This is accomplished by both reductions in length of stay and by decreases in readmission rates. Patients on the transitional care unit spend on average 39 days less in the hospital. The reduction in length of stay reflects Sarah’s ability to effectively coordinate multidisciplinary care teams, ensuring that all aspects of a patient’s care are harmoniously integrated. This coordination extends beyond the walls of the hospital, involving community healthcare providers and services to ensure a seamless transition for patients from acute care to home-based or alternative care settings. By focusing on preventive measures, patient education, and care coordination, Sarah has achieved a remarkable reduction in hospital readmission costs for patients in the transitional care unit of $5.9 million dollars over the last six years. The creation of a therapeutic environment that respects patients' dignity and worth is a testament to Sarah’s deep understanding of the intrinsic value of every individual. This respect for humanity, coupled with a relentless pursuit of excellence in care, embodies the essence of nursing and sets a benchmark for leadership in healthcare.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education in Academia:
Dr. Judith Scott, PhD, RN: Dr. Scott is Assistant Professor and RN-BSN Option Coordinator at University of Colorado College of Nursing, Colorado Springs. Dr. Scott’s passion for public health and for improving the care of older adults permeates through her teaching, scholarship, and service. She has spearheaded the use of an innovative teaching tool across the nursing curriculum and in other community-based activities. This teaching tool, Mask-Ed, uses a professionally made mask and attire that transforms a person into an older adult. The tool assists in dispelling myths about ageism and promotes dialogue and understanding of the needs and perspectives of the older adult. To date, this training has reached over 300 students. Dr. Scott has completed two research studies exploring how to use this technology to improve student attitudes toward working with older adults. She has also been the Principal Investigator on two other grant initiatives that relate to her work on health equity for older adults. She provides openness and availability to students, enthusiasm for teaching and learning, a passion for nursing, and an understanding and willingness to work with students who are experiencing challenges. Dr. Scott shares her knowledge through professional presentations and publications, with multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals and a book chapter. Her dedication to advancing nursing extends beyond her research and teaching endeavors. She has made significant contributions through her leadership roles in various professional organizations, including serving as Co-Chair of the Age-Friendly initiative, Vice-President of the Innovations in Aging Board, and Co-Chair of the RN-BSN National Network. Her active involvement in these organizations demonstrates her commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation in nursing education and practice.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education in Nursing Professional Development:
Bobbi Gillis, BSN RN, NCSN: Bobbi is Associate Clinical Manager, School Health Nursing Program at Children's Hospital Colorado, Denver. Bobbi empowers school nurses to develop and utilize critical thinking and problem-solving skills by coordinating and facilitating essential educational and professional development opportunities. To infuse the sharing of knowledge in her daily work, she often distributes journal articles, professional publications, and professional development opportunities of relevance to colleagues. Roberta was instrumental in the creation of a website that provides critical information and resources that school nurses can access to care for children, including sample health care plans for complex chronic conditions, tools for delegation of nursing tasks and additional educational resources. While the intended audience is Colorado school nurses, the website has provided free access to school nurses nationwide. The wealth of knowledge shared through this platform represents a substantial contribution to advancing safety and health practices in schools throughout the United States. Bobbi plans and coordinates two professional development courses annually. The impact of these conferences is felt across a 7-state region, where over 100 school nurses attend each conference, gaining valuable skills and knowledge. Bobbi’s contributions demonstrate her dedication to nursing by ensuring that nurses are prepared and have the knowledge and skills required to provide the best possible care to children.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by a Nurse Executive:
Sarah Dembeck, MSN RN NE-BC: Sara is the Associate Chief Nursing Officer at Vail Health in Vail. Sara is committed to nurse well-being to ensure a dedicated and thriving nursing workforce that serves the community and meets the needs of the health care system. She prioritizes developing and supporting the nursing staff. She has developed and motivated nurse leaders at all levels through engagement in system-wide nurse leader strategy meetings and developed a quarterly nurse leader retreat to build connection, resilience and development among the nurse leader staff. Sara connects with staff and patients at the point of care by rounding regularly throughout the organization, engaging with nurses to better understand unit-level culture and opportunities for improvement. Sara seeks to understand trends from multiple data sources and works with the nursing leaders and staff to prioritize interventions that optimize quality care. Sara partners with the local community college to inform curriculum, share opportunities, and provide clinical sites for students. Under her leadership, a summer nurse extern program and a transition to practice program have been developed. Sara is the executive sponsor of the Well-Being Committee which has been instrumental is creating several organization-wide wellness initiatives, which evidence suggests contributes to employee satisfaction and retention. Sara has created a culture of shared accountability that engages and empowers nurses at all levels of her organization.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by a Nurse Manager/Leader:
Jasmine Shea, MSHCT, BSN, RN, RHC: Jasmine was previously Director of Nursing and is now the Chief Nursing Officer at Keefe Memorial Hospital in Cheyenne Wells. Jasmine has developed and supported multiple programs to ensure favorable outcomes for patients and their families. She pioneered the hospital’s Patient Family Advisory Council so that the community can participate in hospital decisions. She developed a Zero Suicide Program, a Trauma Program, a Sepsis Procedure, collaborated with physicians to develop multiple order sets, and worked with administration to develop a social services department. She identified and supported an RN Champion to facilitate the development of the Alternative to Opioids Program. Jasmine provides monthly education to nursing staff and physicians. She also encourages and mentors staff to continue their education, with three CNA’s becoming RN’s and a 4th currently in a nursing program. Jasmine is a member of the Lamar Community College Advisory Board and serves as a preceptor for nursing students. Two of her students have since joined the hospital staff. She is an active member of the Northeast Colorado Regional Emergency Medical and Trauma Services Board and is a leader of the Northeast Colorado Health Care Coalition. Jasmine has written and received multiple Emergency Medical and Trauma Service Grants and she received a Colorado Health Innovation Community grant to address the issue of loneliness in the elderly in her community. This resulted in a partnership with Determined Health to develop a call center which will go live this month. Jasmine’s leadership has resulted in an environment that truly supports professional practice for her staff and has made invaluable contributions to her community as well.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement in Quality Improvement:
Karen Clous, RN: Karen is the Oncology Quality Specialist at Shaw Cancer Center, a service of Vail Health.Karen has spearheaded significant efforts to diminish barriers to care, focusing on pet care, health literacy, and financial burdens linked to cancer treatment. Recognizing the profound bond between patients and their pets, especially during cancer treatment, she championed an initiative that resulted in pet friendly accommodations for patients, decreasing their stress and anxiety and enhancing treatment compliance. Recognizing the importance of clear and accessible medical information for patients. Karen undertook a health literacy project, revamping patient handouts and educational materials, ensuring they are at an appropriate reading level for the local population. She also played a pivotal role in implementing a financial navigator position, crucial for patients grappling with financial barriers associated with life-saving treatments. Karen led additional initiatives, including the creation of a Breast Cancer Workbook and the expansion of the Nurse Navigator Team. Karen was invaluable in the transition to a new electronic medical record system at her facility. These transformative projects owe their success to Karen, whose expertise, compassion, and thorough approach enabled identification, implementation and evaluation. Through her unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, she has cultivated an environment where change is not only embraced but celebrated for its potential to enhance patient and staff experiences alike.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Nurse-Led Team:
Heather Hammet, MSN, CPNP-AC, CNRN, CCRN & AACN Members: This team demonstrates intentional leadership, inclusivity, and caring relationships on many levels. They are united by their passion for critical care and come from pediatric, community and teaching hospitals throughout the Denver Metro area. Their members come from diverse units, including but not limited to, virtual, burn, trauma, cardiac, medical, neuro, surgical, and progressive care. They work to help all nurses make their optimal contribution to patients and their work environments though education, mentoring, recognizing and celebrating their achievements. Their goal for this year is to increase their number of community service activities. The team identified several areas relevant to communities served by their members including child abuse and neglect, human trafficking, food insecurity, firearm injuries, substance abuse, homelessness, and mental health crises. They addressed these issues in a variety of ways. They collaborated to provide education on human trafficking, did fundraising, and collected over 55 filled backpacks for the Denver Children’s Advocacy Center (DCAC). These backpacks are used for not only back to school purposes, but also for children who are removed from their homes due to domestic violence or unsafe situations such as human trafficking. Members volunteered with Metro Caring, and conducted a supply drive for The Gathering Place, a women, children, and transgender homeless shelter. They hosted a booth focused on teaching Hands Only CPR at the Denver Hispanic Nurses Health Fair. Each year, this team holds a Collaborative Event, which is an opportunity to bring together nurses from other professional organizations to collaborate on one event. This past year they collaborated with the Colorado Council of Black Nurses and the Denver Hispanic Nurses Association to hold a dinner education meeting. The team promotes certification and provides ongoing education for the Denver Metro Region. The chapter believes in meaningful recognition to honor, acknowledge and celebrate the work of nurses throughout the year.
Nightingale Award for Nursing Eminence:
Dr. Amy Barton, PhD, RN, FAAN, ANEF: Dr. Barton is Professor; Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Students; and Daniel and Janet Mordecai Endowed Chair for Rural Health Nursing at University of Colorado College of Nursing in Aurora. Dr. Barton has advanced the profession and practice of nursing through 40 years of experience as a registered nurse and 27 years as a nurse educator. She has experience in community-based, nurse-led health care; interprofessional education and collaborative care; quality improvement; rural health; use of distance-accessible learning methodologies; telehealth; and leadership. She has secured grants and contracts in excess of $10 million dollars. She has authored 95 journal articles, three books, 19 book chapters, and a white paper commissioned by the Committee on the Future of Nursing 2020-2030. She has also disseminated her work through 145 professional papers. Dr. Barton led faculty practice for advanced practice nurses, growing a series of clinical practices into an 8 Million Dollar enterprise. Most of these practices were designed to deliver care to diverse and low-income mothers, children, and families. She developed an online master’s program in nursing and health systems leadership to provide affordable, accessible, graduate education to nurses in Colorado. She engaged in rural outreach directed toward faculty in community colleges and four-year universities to enhance quality and safety content in the curriculum She created a program for nurse educators across the state to prepare for the National League for Nursing Certified Nurse Educator exam. Her current work involves facilitating a unique partnership between two universities for an innovative pathway for Native American students to earn a baccalaureate degree in nursing within the region of Colorado where they reside. Mentorship has been a hallmark of her career. Dr. Barton has consistently involved students, clinical faculty, and tenure-track faculty on her teams. Her work has been centered on health equity throughout her career. Whether it was creating systems to provide access to care or working to diversify the healthcare workforce, she has consistently demonstrated diversity, equity, and inclusion as her north star. Dr. Amy Barton has followed in the footsteps of Florence Nightingale, Susie Walking Bear Yellowtail, and Mary Seacole in creating innovative pathways in nursing . We are honored to present her with the Nightingale Award for Nursing Eminence to recognize her lifetime of service in the profession of nursing.
Nightingale Award for Exceptional Achievement Nursing Research:
Dr. Lindsey Marie Tarasenko, PhD, RN: Dr. Tarasenko is a Nurse Scientist at Children’s Hospital Colorado in Denver. She is a strong advocate for a healthy practice environment for nurses and has developed a program of research through which she investigates how systems and structures within organizations impact the scope of practice of clinical nurses and nurse leaders. Dr. Tarasenko conducted research on nurses and their practice environment during the COVID pandemic. The study provided insight into the pandemic-driven changes in nursing practice and the resulting effect on nurses. This innovative research culminated in a community art exhibition that has been showcased at multiple venues. She has conducted research on workplace violence, incivility, and mistreatment. Understanding how these issues impact nurses and their decisions about continuing their careers in nursing, and where they will practice nursing, is important information for leaders of all types of institutions that employ nurses. Her research also gives a voice to nurses through dissemination of her findings to groups that can impact these issues, such as leadership organizations and professional organizations. Dr. Tarasenko has a passion for accurate measurement. She is working to ensure that nurses conducting research are using valid and reliable measures in their work whether it is research or evidence-based practice. She is also part of a national group conducting research on Professional Governance. She is a mentor for students as well as practicing nurses. She communicates her research via manuscripts in peer-reviewed professional journals, in an invited author of a book chapter, and gives presentations within the hospital and at external conferences.
Congratulations to all 78 of the State's Luminaries
Centennial Area Health Education Center Luminary Awards
Lola Fehr, RN, MSN, FAAN, Principal Consultant, Fehr Consulting Resources, Greeley
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has demonstrated decisiveness, trustworthiness, empowerment of others, clear communication, and resilience in multiple leadership roles.
Vanessa Matteson, RN, MSN, Director of Quality, Sunrise Community Health, Evans.
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Quality Improvement
She proactively utilizes quality improvement tools to impact care and utilizes approaches that are most suitable to various ethnic groups and varying degrees of health literacy.
Nicole Olson, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, CLC, Staff Nurse, UC Health Greely
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by a Registered Nurse in Clinic Practice
She used an evidence-based approach to streamline the process for supporting patients experiencing fetal loss and involved the community in her project.
Aecian Pendleton, RN, BSN, RN, Case Manager , Tender Care Pediatrics , Ft. Collins.
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She provides a holistic delivery of care and coordination of community resources for a population of vulnerable individuals in rural communities,
Natalie Pool, PhD, RN, CNE, Associate Professor of Nursing , University of Northern ColoradoSchool of Nursing , Greeley
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Education in Academia
She creates a learning environment that is inclusive and promotes interpersonal and intrapersonal critical thinking. She intentionally infuses courses with concepts centered around health equity.
Jasmine Shea, MSHCT, BSN, RN, RHC, Former Director of Nursing, now CNO, Keefe Memorial Health Services, Cheyenne Wells
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Administration by a Leader/Manager
She implemented multiple programs including the Patient Family Advisory Council, Zero Suicide Program, Sepsis Protocol , and Trauma Protocol.
Denver Regional Nightingale Association Luminary Awards
Erin Howell, LPN, Rocky Mountain Regional VA, Outpatient Geriatrics Clinic
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by an LPN in Community Nursing
She provides extra attention and support to help Veterans navigate a difficult system and get them connected to various needed resources.
Ariana Anderson, RN, BSN, CPN, Clinical Nurse IV, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She led a project to identify barriers and establish best practices within ambulatory care which improved vaccine rates and overall vaccines administered in ambulatory clinics.
Amy Barton, PhD, RN, FAAN, ANEF, Professor; Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Students; and Daniel and Janet Mordecai Endowed Chair for Rural Health Nursing University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has advanced the profession and practice of nursing through 40 years of experience in community-based, nurse-led health care; interprofessional education and collaborative care; quality improvement; rural health; use of distance-accessible learning methodologies; telehealth; and leadership.
Laura Pickford RN, MSN, CPN, Leader
Children’s Colorado Kidstreet, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by Nurse Led Teams
They provide therapeutic services, medical care, educational curriculum, and care coordination services to children with medical complexities and technology dependence in a developmentally engaging environment.
Sarah Cope, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Nurse Practitioner and Co Medical Director Transitional Care Unit, Denver Health, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by an Advanced Practice Nurse
She provided leadership for the creation and operational success of the transitional care unit, a specialized unit designed to address the multifaceted challenges of patients who are medically complex, disenfranchised, or uninsured.
JoAnn Crownover, DNP, RN, CNE, Assistant Professor, University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education, Academia
She shares her enthusiasm for nursing and inspires students to learn through more than 25 years of teaching at a wide range of nursing programs; rural and urban, private, and public, associate degree and baccalaureate degree.
Judy Davidson, MSN, RN, Supervisor of Nursing Support Programs, University of Colorado Hospital, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education, Nursing Professional Development
She spearheaded the development of the Patient Care Assistant program across the system, creating the foundational elements to build the program and contributing to its continued success.
Heather Hammett, RN, MSN, CPNP-AC, CNRN, CCRN, Leader
Denver Chapter of American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by Nurse Led Teams
They provide community service activities and contribute to quality patient outcomes by promoting certification and providing ongoing education for critical care nurses.
Joy Foster, RN, BSN, Lead RN/Charge RN, Craig Hospital, Englewood
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Long Term Care
She is recognized as a professional role model for excellence in patient and family care and
demonstrates exemplary collaboration skills with clients/patients, families, and staff.
Bobbi Gillis, RN, BSN,NCSN, Associate Clinical Manager, School Health Program, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education, Nursing Professional Development
She coached a team of nurses to create a website that provides critical information and resources t for school nurses and uses her expertise and innovative approach to provide successful professional development courses.
Patricia Givens, RN, BSN, DHA, Senior Vice President, Chief Nursing Officer, Childrens Hospital Colorado, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by an Executive/CNO
She excels in carrying out her responsibilities for developing, implementing, and evaluating system-wide patient care programs, standards of nursing practice, nursing and clinical policies, evidence-based practices, nursing, and allied health research, and monitoring of performance related to patient care delivery.
Nikki Carlo Kemp, RN, BSN, MBA, Registered Nurse, VA Rocky Mountain Regional Medical Center, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Long Term Care
He consistently works with disruptive and uncooperative patients, advocating for health equity through commitment to ethical principles, prioritizing patient autonomy and confidentiality, and ensuring that rights and dignity are always respected even in the most challenging situations.
Jane Martin, LPN, Staff LPN, Adara Living, Broomfield
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long Term Care
She is the embodiment of what it means to be an expert in the field of nursing and is dedicated to providing dignity and quality of life to her patients.
Leah May, DNP, RN, RNC-MNN, C-ONQS, CLC, Quality Manager, Rose Medical Center, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Quality Improvement
She implemented new research recommendations for medication management and evidenced-based practices for preventing and controlling postpartum bleeds, and implemented new products and devices to control uterine atony, to significantly reduce the hospital’s postpartum hemorrhage rate.
Maureen Miller, MSN, RN, CCRN-CMC, CHFM, CNEcl, CVRN-BC, Staff Nurse , Rose Medical Center, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She has a strong drive to improve nursing knowledge, understanding, and excellence and developed an innovative way to increase nursing engagement by creating a “Scrubs on Screen” educational series.
Whitney Miller, RN, DNP, FNP, Lead Advanced Practice Provider at Denver Health, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by an Advanced Practice Nurse
She provides leadership and mentorship to advance the role of the APP within Denver Health and participated in the development of APP residency and fellowship programs to educate the next generation.
Anelyn Miro, RN, MSN, MBA, NE-BC,CNML, Nurse Manager, Common Spirit, St. Anthony Hospital, Lakewood
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by a Leader/Manager
She creates a healing, inclusive environment that supports empowered professional practice and demonstrates exemplary leadership qualities that have significantly impacted both the well-being of patients and the professional growth of her colleagues.
Tracy Morgan, LPN , Lutheran Medical Center, Wheat Ridge
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice
She exemplifies a dedication to health equity and community service that extends beyond her professional role. She actively advocates for her patients in the hospital setting, she also volunteers her time in the community by teaching CPR and volunteers at local sporting events.
Sarry Moscatel, RN, PhD, Scholarship Coordinator/Clinical Educator, VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has demonstrated excellence in nursing care, leadership, promotion of optimal patient outcomes, and has made major contributions to advance the practice of nursing for over 40 years.
Natalie Nicholson, RN, DNP, Associate Chief Nursing Officer, Denver Health, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by an Executive/CNO
She creates and empowers professional practice through her effective role modeling and embraces inclusive leadership practices by actively listening to diverse perspectives, valuing contributions from all nurse leaders, and promoting a sense of belonging amongst the teams.
Jennifer Olson, RN, MS, CPHON, Clinical Education Specialist, Children’s Hospital Colorado, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Research
She conducted a study on weighted blanket use as an intervention to therapeutically reduce anxiety in the pediatric oncology population, adding to the variety of non-pharmacologic modalities nurses could offer to patients to improve their overall experience.
Asha Rani, LPN, VA Community Based Outpatient Clinics, Auroa
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice
She is the Champion of Phlebotomy in the lab, has oriented many LPN’s, RN’s, Supervisors and
Physicians, and has won numerous awards at her facility.
Sarah Schoeder, LPN, Director of Wellness Initiatives, Eaton Senior Communities, Lakewood
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long Term Care
She works tirelessly to meet seniors’ needs by coordinating multiple on site programs, presents educational programs, and spends countless hours doing community outreach.
Mary Smith, MSN, RN, CPEN, SANE-A, Clinical Specialty Coordinator, Child Protection Team, Children’s Hospital of Colorado, Aurora.
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She created escape room education regarding sexual assault and established a partnership between the Child Protection Team and public health nurses in the Denver area, with monthly didactic presentations, and regular interagency collaboration.
Lindsey Marie Tarasenko, RN, PhD, Nurse Scientist, Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Research
Her research focus is on improving healthcare systems for nurses and their patients and she is a strong advocate for a healthy practice environment for nurses.
Maggie Thompson, DNP, AGACNP-BC, CNE, Assistant Professor, University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education, Academia
She cultivates critical thinking skills in her students, encouraging them to analyze complex healthcare scenarios, develop sound judgment, and approach problem-solving with a keen and analytical mind.
Damon Toczylowski, DNP, RN, ACNP-C, CCNS, Cardiology Nurse Practitioner, VA Rocky Mountain Regional Medical Center, Aurora and Adjunct Faculty, University of Colorado College of Nursing, Aurora
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Quality Improvement
He created the Veteran Exposure Assessment and Screening Evaluation (VET-EASE) toolkit to offer references and resources for clinical providers caring for veterans with known or suspected toxic exposures.
Carrie Williamson, RN, BSN, CCRN, Clinical Manager ICU, Advent Health Porter, Denver
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration Leader/Manager
She identifies the strengths of her team members, grows their knowledge and skills, and helps them focus on provision of evidence-based, safe patient care in the critical care setting.
Karen Wilson, MN, RN, CGRN, CTTS, Oncology Nurse Navigator, Advent Health Parker, Parker
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice.
She has vast expertise and knowledge in lung and colon cancer and established a free Low Dose CT Lung Cancer Screening Program for firefighters.
Nightingale Committee of Pikes Peak Luminary Awards
Sherwanda Berry, LPN, PACT LPN, VA Union Boulevard Outpatient Clinic, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Community Nursing
She manages a panel of 1000 patients with a provider team that leads in health metrics in promoting prevention measures and management to diabetic patients.
Lisa Cox, BSN, CMSRN, Level III Charge Nurse, UC Health Memorial Hospital Central, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She empowers nursing staff to integrate Trauma Informed Care principles into their practice, thereby enriching patient-centered care and promoting a culture of compassion and understanding within the healthcare community.
Sarah Hagedorn MSN, RN, CCRN, SANE-A, SANE-P
Forensic Nurse Examiners, UC Health Memorial Hospital Central, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Nurse Led Team
They provide comprehensive medical care to victims of violence, work closely with local law enforcement to ensure that patients seeking to engage with the criminal justice system can do so in a supportive and trauma-informed manner, and ensure that patients and families have access to long-term resources and support.
Sophia Hovis, RN, BSN, Staff Nurse/Relief Charge Nurse, Common Spirit - Penrose Hospital, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Research
She has completed several research projects in the field of suicide prevention and increasing resiliency in nurses, and designed and presented an interactive seminar to teach practical resiliency and mindfulness skills to reduce burnout and compassion fatigue.
Lori Lee, RN, BSN, MHA, CPHQ, Chief, Quality & Patient Safety Service, Eastern Colorado Health Care System, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Administration by an Executive/CNO
She has created an environment which is patient-focused, encourages creativity and innovative thought processes, and includes regular education and engagement to assist staff in preparation and participation in multiple regulatory, accreditation and certification surveys.
Elizabeth McKelvey, APRN, CPNP-AC/PC, Director of Advanced Practice, Children's Hospital Colorado, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by an Advanced Practice Nurse
She is an advocate for advanced practice nursing, supporting the inclusion of APRN’s in leadership structure and decision making and in working with multidisciplinary teams to improve care for patients.
Sarah Meisner, RN,MSN, PCCN, Clinical Coordinator, Common Spirit Penrose Hospital, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Education/Nursing Professional Development
She is a Clinical Ladder expert who educates and mentors nurses on the Clinicla Ladder process , helping them grow in their profession and work to their full scope of practice.
Alisa Morse, RN, MS, APRN, CNM, C-EFM, C-ONQS, Advanced Practice RN, UC Health, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Quality Improvement
She makes data driven decisions and evaluates the outcomes of interventions until a sustainable practice change has been fully enculturated, resulting in robust quality improvement for the perinatal services division at two large tertiary birthing hospitals.
Casey Peat, RN, MSN, OCN, Outpatient Oncology Infusion Nurse Manager, UC Health Memorial Hospital Central, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Administration by a Leader Manager
She has a profound and multifaceted influence on quality patient care, particularly through her instrumental role in expanding the apheresis program to ensure round-the-clock access to these critical treatments.
Cindy Ramberg, RN , BSN, CCRN, Critical Care Outreach RN (CCOR), UC Health Memorial Hospital Central, Colorado Springs.
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has been saving patient lives, mentoring new nurses, and sharing extensive knowledge of resuscitation, deterioration, and critical care nursing with hundreds of professionals since 1990.
Jena Rodgers, RN, MSN, OCN, Gastrointestinal Nurse Navigator, Common Spirit Penrose Cancer Center, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She works directly with patients newly diagnosed with cancer, ensuring that best practice guidelines are followed leading to the best possible cancer outcomes being achieved.
Judith M. Scott, RN, PhD, Assistant Professor and RN-BSN Option Coordinator, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Education-Academia
She has a passion for improving nursing care and providing health equity for older adults through teaching, scholarship, and service.
San Luis Valley Area Health Education Center Luminaries
Kelly Bleakney, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Family Nurse Practitioner, San Luis Valley Health, Alamosa
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing by an Advanced Practice RN.
She exhibits an unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of health and equity, demonstrates dedication to the profession of nursing, and is tireless in her efforts to empower both the professional and public community.
Katherine Blound, RN, MSN, Education Coordinator, San Luis Valley Health, Alamosa.
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements in Nursing Education, Nursing Professional Development
She established, monitors and provides ongoing resources for a mentorship program for new graduate nurses, offering a new dimension of support and encouragement to enable new nurses to succeed.
Deb Braly, RN, ADN, Staff Nurse, San Luis Valley Health, Alamosa
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has provided education and supported the growth and development of untold numbers of nurses in her 30+ years of nursing and postponed her retirement plans to help ensure quality patient care through the pandemic.
Harli Montejano, RN, ADN, OB Staff Nurse, San Luis Valley Health, Alamosa
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievements by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She utilizes evidence based practice, provides education, shares her experience, and encourages patients and their families to be active participants in their obstetrical care.
Angela Hernandez, RN, MSN-Ed, Team Leader
San Luis Valley Health Practice Council, San Luis Valley Health, Alamosa
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Nurse Led Team
They have changed the culture of their rural facility to one of inquiry and best practice driven decision making through leadership and communication.
Southeastern Colorado Area Health Education Center Luminaires
Shelby Casper, RN, MSN, FNP-C, Owner, County Line Health Clinic, Wiley
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by an Advanced Practice Nurse
She established a Family Practice Clinic in a small rural town, built trusting relationships with local providers and healthcare specialists for consultation and referrals, and provides holistic and functional medicine to patients across the lifespan.
Victoria Dalla Guardia, LPN, LTC Floor Nurse, Spanish Peaks Veterans Community Living Center, Walsenburg
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Ling Term Care
She demonstrates excellence in person-centered care and provides advocacy for her patients,
resulting in a decrease in falls, skin issues, infections, and hospitalizations.
Tracy Kelly, RN, BSN, IBCLC, Perinatal Case Manager/Lactation Case Manager, Pueblo Community Health Center, Pueblo
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She provides new evidence to guide best practices for lactation and infant feeding, and case manages both high-risk and low-risk pregnancies, ever mindful of socioeconomic factors that can affect health outcomes for both parent and child.
Talea Logan, RN, BSN, Staff Nurse, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Walsenburg
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She developed a wound care unit, providing initial education to the members of the wound care team and providing ongoing education and mentorship to ensure quality care for patients and their families.
Andrea Pacheco, LPN, Clinical Care Manager, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Walsenburg
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice
She has created a positive, safe, cohesive working environment, allowing her staff to have autonomy and ownership of their respective roles.
Southwestern Colorado Area Health Education Center Luminaries
Bethany Bernal, RN BSN, SANE-A, SANE-P, Forensic Nurse Examiner Coordinator, Common Spirit Mercy Hospital, Durango
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Health Care Policy
She was instrumental in initiating and testifying on legislation which allows emergency departments to dispense a seven-day supply of antibiotics to survivors of sexual assault, allowing them to leave with medication in hand, which increases compliance and decreases shame.
Neci Sanchez Diaz, LPN, Animas Surgical Hospital, Durango
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice
She became an LPN after 30 years as a Certified Nursing Assistant. She provides kind, observant, patient centered care, and serves her community at immunization clinics and blood drives.
Jennifer Berela Hyson, RN, BSN, MHA, Former Clinical Director, Mercy Regional Medical Center
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by a Leader/Manager
She promoted programs that benefited mother and infant patients, including a Lactation Clinic, an Education Department within the Family Birth Center, and Tender Journeys ,a program that benefits parents grieving the loss of an infant.
Audrey Preston, RN, BSN, Common Spirit Mercy Hospital’s Integrative Healing
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She led a project to provide patients free Guided Imagery health related meditations, including Guided Imagery for Successful Surgery, to Ease Pain, for General Wellness, for Childbirth and for Pain/Anxiety, collaborating with multiple entities to make them available on the hospital website.
Kendra Smith, RN, BSN, Clinic Nurse, Common Spirit Primary Care, Bayfield
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She is the sole RN in the Family Medicine Clinic, providing competent and empathetic care which ensures that providers are successful in meeting the needs of their patients.
Natasha Spencer, RN, MSN, Emergency Department Manager, Common Spirit Mercy Hospital, Durango
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Professional Development
She is committed to compassionate patient care, swiftly identifies areas for improvement, implements positive changes, and consistently fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Heather Thompson, RN, BSN, Director of Nursing, Axis Healthcare System, Durango
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by an Executive
She merged two large mental health organizations during a pandemic, assuming responsibility for quality assurance, standards of practice, and evidence-based nursing care while prioritizing the needs of both patients and staff.
Deanna Yeomans, RN, ADN, Peri-Operative Nurse, Animas Surgical Hospital, Durango
Luminary Award for Nursing Eminence
She has advanced the profession of nursing by dedicating forty-five years of service in multiple settings, caring for patients of all ages and demographics, consistently exemplifying excellence, quality, and best nursing practices and mentoring other nurses throughout her career.
Western Area Health Education Center Luminaries
Kristofer Borchard, RN, BSN, BBM, Director of Surgical Services, Pioneers Medical Center/Colorado Advanced Orthopedics, Meeker
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by a Leader/Manager
He has built a culture of trust, respect and inclusion, and as implemented safety strategies which have significantly improved patient outcomes.
Karen Clous, RN, ADN, Oncology Quality Specialist, Vail Health Shaw Cancer Center, Edwards
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Quality Improvement
She spearheaded significant efforts to diminish barriers to cancer treatment, focusing on pet care, health literacy, and financial burdens.
Sara Dembeck, RN, MSN, NE-BC, Associate Chief Nursing Officer Vail Health, Vail
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Administration by an Executive/CNO
She is committed to nurse wellbeing to ensure a dedicated and thriving nursing workforce that serves the community and meets the needs of the health care system throughout the continuum of care.
Mary Amber Karsian, RN, FNP-BC , Medical Director, Summit, Garfield, Delta, Lincoln, Gilpin, and Broomfield County Jails
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
She provides intentional leadership that has brought vision and passion into her teams, building strong, confident, competent nursing teams that care for patients in correctional facilities.
Shina Kean, RN, ADN, Assistant Director of Nursing, Larchwood Inns Skilled Nursing and Post-Acute Rehab. Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Long Term Care
She pioneered the use of Resident Centered theory in her facility and leads the Risk Management Team to review and audit care to ensure that processes and delivery of care are optimal.
Barbara Kent, LPN, Lead LPN, Primary Care , VA Hospital- Western Colorado Health Care System, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Community Nursing
She has improved the environment of care, contributes to continuous survey readiness and integrates best practices into primary care including Whole Health and Patient-Aligned Care Teams models of care.
Whitney Littrell, , LPN, Larchwood Inns Skilled Nursing and Post-acute Rehab, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Long Term Care
She applies a resident-centered, holistic approach, and communicates and collaborates effectively with other providers and health care professionals to ensure each of the residents receives optimal health care.
Leticia Paz Lopez, RN, BSN, Primary RN, Hope West Hospice, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Community Nursing
She embraces cultural and linguistic diversity, creating a supportive and inclusive environment where patients and families feel valued, understood, and empowered to make informed decisions about their care.
Stephanie Mariscovetere, RN, BSN, Staff Nurse, Community Hospital, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Registered Nurse in Clinical Practice
She has launched several initiatives to increase awareness of sustainable practices and reduce her organization’s ecological footprint, making her community a cleaner, healthier, and more equitable place to live, work, and play.
Ona Ridgeway, RN, DNP, FNP, PMHNP, Leader
Pathways Family Wellness Center, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Nurse Led Team
This team, embedded in a women’s and family shelter, respectfully cares for people experiencing homelessness of any age, race, disability, or sexual orientation.
Kylie Winn, LPN, Community Hospital Grand Valley Oncology, Grand Junction
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement by a Licensed Practical Nurse in Clinical Practice
She provides safe, unbiased, compassionate treatment to provide the best quality care for patients and is a leader and mentor for new staff.
Jennifer Willoughby, RN, BSN, CAPA, ONC, Pre Op PACU Clinical Educator, Vail Valley Surgery Center, Vail and Edwards; Dillon Surgery Center, Dillon; Steadman Philippon Surgery Center, Basalt
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Education
She has a passion for education which shines through her leadership of committees that institute change, her support and guidance of new-graduate and newly onboarded nursing staff and her support of a large staff over long distances to promote excellence across our healthcare system.
Liz Wodrich, RN, MSN, Educator of Emergency Services Vail Health, Vail
Luminary Award for Exceptional Achievement in Nursing Professional Development
She educated nursing and physician staff on use of a suicide screening tool for children and adolescents, championed a Zero Suicide project, instituted a free firearm lock program, and brought Stop the Bleed training to the community.