HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM HOUSTON CHRONICLE CUSTOM PUBLISHING GROUP SUNDAY, MAY 9, 2021

HOUSTON CHRONICLE’S 21ST ANNUAL SALUTE TO NURSES HONORS EXCEPTIONAL NURSE HEROES

By Alice Adams | FREELANCE WRITER

Last year’s National Nurses Week theme “The Year of the Nurse” continues for 2021, with front-line nurse caregivers fi ghting to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic that began in early 2020. Then, as a winter storm hit in February this year, Texas nurses were confronted with the great challenge of power outages and water shortages, but still rose to the challenge to provide top care for their patients.

Aristotle Abad Karla Abela Danny Alvarez Debbie Barrera Andrew Bueno Memorial Hermann Texas Children’s Hospital Memorial Hermann Texas Children’s / Baylor Memorial Hermann Memorial City Main Campus Sugar Land Hospital College of Medicine Southeast Hospital

Shannon Collins Cassandra Duran Jennifer Esparza Maureen Lall Giselle Long Houston Methodist Baylor College Memorial Hermann Houston Methodist UTMB Jennie Hospital of Medicine Southeast Hospital Sugar Land Hospital Sealy Hospital

Khairunnisa Madhani Carolyn Phillips Kavitha Rajan Patricia Silva Karen Wondra Memorial Hermann UTMB School of Nursing TIRR Memorial Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital PhD Program Hermann Hospital Berthelsen Main Campus Clear Lake Hospital

Nurses Week, May 6-12, 2021, is personal. I’m passionate about “Our nurses were willing “We give nurses the training, we serve,” Harrow said. brings to light a year that demand- people getting vaccinated, and in a mentoring and experience they Diane Santa Maria, DrPH, ed changes in safety protocols timely manner.” to do whatever it took to need for a rewarding career. Then, MSN, RN, dean of the Cizik School throughout the medical commu- She also explained how make sure our patients every nurse is free to tailor their of Nursing at UTHealth, said that nity, such as remote telehealth UT Physicians extends an overall responsibilities to achieve their own when looking at “the landscape patient visits, visitor limitations caring environment, not only for received the care they goals,” Harrow said, adding that of health care, nurses are at the and masking requirements. Along each patient, but to staff as well. needed, even if it meant the Houston Methodist iCARE val- forefront because of all they do and with patient care also came new du- “We’re family; COVID has made ues were made even more visible by their importance in our society. ties for diagnostic testing and, once us closer. We are working to defeat taking on diff erent roles the nurses’ response to COVID-19 Before college, I would watch vaccines became available, health the pandemic … in collaboration at to support that goal.” demands. commercials of ‘save the children, care professionals began vaccinat- every level,” she said. “This framework helped inform feed the children,’ and those images Andrea Harrow, VP of operations and chief nursing ing the public. A milestone for this vaccination offi cer, Houston Methodist Clear our day-to-day decisions,” she made me want to spend my work Lake Hospital Makita D. Franklin, RN, clinical eff ort was on April 9, 2021, when said, “and while the patient load life helping reach health equity.” educator at UT Physicians, the 71-year-old Beverly Hensley, who and the pandemic itself demanded Santa Maria said she saw 2021 Salute to Nurses Diamond had isolated in her home during fl exibility, creativity, and innovation COVID-19 as a once-in-a-lifetime Sponsor, said agility has been key the pandemic, was vaccinated but also for the community part- to overcome the sudden barriers opportunity for student nurses to in the fi ght against COVID-19. at the UTHealth Vaccine Hub. ners who continue to off er their we were having to overcome, our understand the rigors nurses face As a lead nurse at the UTHealth Franklin delivered that 100,000th support to hospital staff . nurses continued to go above and in a pandemic. Vaccine Hub, Franklin said getting vaccination. “It was totally unexpected, but beyond to deliver high quality and “Nurses are there at the best of vaccines into the arms of thousands “At every phase of the pandem- businesses sent food and other ‘high touch’ care, as much as was times and worst, and the future of of Houstonians required the eff orts ic, every step of the way to deliver- items. That was invaluable to our possible with full PPE.” nursing is secure because we see of UT Physicians nurses, as well ing the vaccine, nurses have been morale. We were not forgotten in In the beginning of the pandem- such good people coming into nurs- as student nurses volunteering working to make the hub happen,” the chaos of the pandemic,” Har- ic, Harrow said the hospital had to ing with the emotional intelligence from the Cizik School of Nursing at Franklin said. row said. “Nurses come to work at work with uncertainty about what to work in systems to provide the UTHealth. Salute to Nurses Presenting Houston Methodist because they they were dealing with. best patient care possible.” “We’ve all been working hard. Sponsor Houston Methodist’s An- know they will be respected, sup- “Our nurses were willing to “During the crisis point of Our job has been to educate drea Harrow, DNP, RN, FACHE, ported and given the opportunity do whatever it took to make sure COVID, one of the things you could residents, doctors, volunteers vice president of operations and to make a diff erence. Support our patients received the care they count on was that nurses would be and students to prepare them for chief nursing offi cer at Houston from the community only under- needed, even if it meant taking most creative and most innovative vaccinations … and then to set up Methodist Clear Lake Hospital, scored this.” on diff erent roles to support that in a challenge. Nurses will always the vaccine hub,” she said. “In June, has been a nurse for 31 years. Molding nurse staff members goal. Truly, it was a testament to run toward the problem and will be I was hospitalized with COVID, She off ered high praise, not only and helping them grow profession- the commitment of these dedicated there when the going gets tough,” so providing access to the vaccine for the hospital’s nursing staff , ally is key. men and women to the community Santa Maria added.

See Top 15 Nurse winners, Page 2

PRESENTING SPONSOR DIAMOND SPONSOR H2 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle

SALUTE TO NURSES Nurses were presented a 2021 Sponsors difference in the lives of personalized award and a Presenting Sponsor: patients and their families. $250 gift card, and three They are truly deserving of Houston Methodist exceptional nursing students this honor.” received a $1,000 schol- Diamond Sponsor: In addition, this year Awards event celebrates arship. UT Physicians Salute to Nurses is partnering This event is traditionally Gift Bag Sponsor: Texas with Susan Gibson, BMI held during National Nurses Children’s Hospital songwriter of the year for outstanding area nurses Week, which is held May 6-12, Education Sponsor: “Wide Open Spaces” by the to mark the birthday of Dixie Chicks, and her Com- San Jacinto College For the health care in- “nursing founder” Florence passionate Combat initiative. dustry, last year was like no Nightingale. Cookie Sponsor: “We are proud to help other, and nurses took their Every year, area hospitals, Memorial Hermann bring a larger voice to this care to another level. clinics, schools and patients Top 15 Nurses Sponsor: powerful initiative and Su- To recognize their service, are excited to recognize the U of H Nursing san’s commitment to nurses stamina and dedication, the most dedicated nurses in across Texas,” said Linda Dessert Sponsor: Houston Chronicle’s annual Houston's health care com- Schaible, VP of marketing Salute to Nurses Top 150 munity. The Top 150 nurses St. Luke’s Health and strategic development at nurse award nominations were selected by a panel of the Houston Chronicle. “Her flowed in, with nominations educators, professionals and site, CompassionateCombat- penned by medical profes- leaders in the field for their the Houston Chronicle. .com, houses the COVID sionals and patients from work. “During our Salute to Nurses stories of nurses and places a specialty clinics to communi- “Nurses are at the fore- celebration events, online point on the need for pro- ty health care centers, from Houston Chronicle Marketing front of dedicated health care and print sections, we will grams like Salute to Nurses suburban hospitals to the The Salute to Nurses drive-thru appreciation event in the greater Houston area, share their stories and cele- not only in Houston, but global health care leader was held on Thursday, May 6. and last year was an example brate 150 of Houston’s Top everywhere.” Texas Medical Center, and of how these professionals Nurses, and highlight the Top For more, visit chron.com/ from the region’s schools and safety measures, instead of a day, May 6, at the Houston deliver outstanding, compas- 15 nurses. All of our honorees salutetonurses2021. facilities. luncheon, a drive-thru cele- Chronicle. sionate care,” said Henry have been on the front lines Due to the pandemic and bration was held on Thurs- The exceptional Top 15 Ford, chief revenue officer at of the pandemic, making a — HC Custom Publishing Group

new knowledge and use methods learned in doctoral programs Like many nurses, she sees her job as her contribution to Top 15 Nurses to propose methods to measure whether or not protocols are increasing the quality of life for patients, often beyond the working. research team and the research facility. Yet, she is quick to “I lead a team of professionals and they use me to translate repeat what has become the nurses’ mantra: “I’m just doing my receive recognition the validity of these studies. Ph.D.s were a trusted resource job and I love doing it, love the challenge and love coming to during a pandemic,” she said. “People had little time to evaluate work every day.” C ontinued from page 1 what was happening, so I helped, providing feedback with “I am fortunate to work with a team of dedicated profession- policy and procedure. I also reviewed a position statement on als,” she said, “people who are equally compassionate about the The Houston Chronicle celebrates these outstanding nursing family presence during the pandemic by a colleague/member of patients they work with, and beyond that, patients in the future professionals and presents the Top 15 Nurse winners for 2021: the American Academy of Pediatrics.” who could be helped by the work they are doing.” Aristotle Abad, BSN, RN, CNSRN, CCRN For her work, Abela received the Clinical Research Award One of Barrera’s nominators wrote, “This nurse is humble, Memorial Hermann Memorial City from Texas Children’s Hospital. and highly skilled in her job, efficient and selfless, and aware in As a nominator states, “Karla is the epitome of a nurse. She is the importance of the work her team performs, day in and day A native of the Philippines and a nurse for 16 years, Aristotle talented, kind, compassionate and leads with heart. In her out. Barrera is a support to the science as well as the scientists Abad grew up in a family of farmers, saying life on the farm was current role as assistant director of clinical practice for the who explore new paths in medicine. And while she may never pretty challenging. However, a few family members were able Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), Karla influences clinical see the … patients her team’s efforts benefit in so many ways — to become doctors and nurses. practice for some of the sickest patients in the hospital and her role as a nurse and the traditional goals of nursing are at the “One of my uncles was part of U.S. medical missions, and he supports nurses to care for these children using evidence-based core of the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of trials she manages became a motivating force for me to become a nurse. This goal practice and quality as guiding principles. Karla recently com- every year.” not only gave me a way to improve my life, but also to become a pleted her Ph.D. and has used her passion for research to con- Barrera was recently given the Clinical Research Award, a better person,” Abad said. “Succeeding in school also gave me tribute to pediatric literature in a number of studies. peer-nominated award to recognize individuals working in the drive to work harder as a nurse.” “Karla truly cares about our people. She finds so much joy in clinical research. Abad said he was fortunate to be sponsored by his aunt and mentoring and supporting others toward their goals. She takes “Clinical research is a stressful undertaking,” another nom- uncle as he completed his nursing courses at St. Mary’s Univer- the time to encourage others and help remove barriers for them ination stated. “Every study protocol is unique, from the partic- sity in the Philippines. They inspired him by being strong role to achieve their goals.” ulars of the study design to the patient population to the mul- models in practicing the “Golden Rule,” and in encouraging She said being named to this year’s Top 15 Nurses is a huge tiple different physician principal investigators. I have admired Abad to incorporate his own spiritual awareness as a nurse. honor. Debbie’s clear determination and desire to help every physi- “They are my heroes,” he said. “I still cannot believe it — in this hospital and this area,” Abela cian, including myself, to go through all of the steps needed to Of the 600 students who began training in said. “To me, this honor is recognition of a team’s work, but I begin a clinical trial. She does this with a wonderful, positive Abad’s class at St. Mary’s, only 82 nurses com- was shocked because I’m just doing my job.” attitude. Debbie has shown true leadership in this regard, taking pleted the rigorous, difficult training. Abad also on extra roles to prevent delays in starting a trial. was invited to return after graduation to serve B BB “As part of the Child Neurology Clinical Research Committee, as clinical instructor. I have worked very closely with Debbie over the past several Marrying a fellow nurse, Abad and his wife years in assessing, organizing, and developing timelines for all eventually left the Philippines to work at a Danny Alvarez, RN proposed clinical trials being developed in the Division of Child ARISTOTLE hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Neurology, and I am continually impressed with her skill in ABAD “I found a great deal of patient diversity Hospital assessing the feasibility of every study as well as how to best there, but not a big difference in patient-care DANNY A nurse for 44 years and working at Memo- ALVAREZ address the many challenges to moving studies forward in an protocols,” said Abad, now a nurse at Memorial Hermann Me- expeditious manner. Debbie is such a gifted individual in this morial City. rial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, Danny Alvarez grew up with a nurse in the family. His father was a area. He said no one expected the COVID-19 pandemic, and medi- “Debbie balances the needs for adherence to clinical trial cal caregivers really struggled at first. military medic in the Korean War, after which he became a nurse and worked with two titans in medicine — cardiac sur- protocols with the human needs of the research subjects, all of “Nurses were leaving, some were getting sick and some were whom are children, many of whom are chronically ill, and dying, but ours is a great unit with great leadership. We were all geons Dr. Denton Cooley and Dr. Michael E. DeBakey, when the two doctors were working together. Later, while his mother was some of whom have nowhere else to turn to get treatment there to give the best care and to be there for patients because outside of a clinical trial. She also fills in, often at a moment’s their families couldn’t be. working at a hospital in Rosenburg, Alvarez — always a curious youngster — often accompanied her, helping with odd jobs. notice, for other nursing coordinators who are unable to com- “Initially, I was afraid for my family. We have two kids, my plete a study visit, or to help care for a research subject with an wife and I are both nurses, and we were all new to the U.S.,” he “One day, a patient had a heart attack in a room close to where I was and a code was called,” he said. “As I stood out of adverse event. said. “The early days were challenging. Very young patients “Debbie is deserving of this award based on her selflessness were unexpectedly passing away. Nurses also were advocates the way, I watched this man, a nurse named Ben, take control, revive the patient, and as the physician readied the patient for and commitment to teamwork. She is committed to equitable for the patients separated from their families as well as their treatment of children and advocates for bringing the latest family members who wanted information. It was a busy time.” transport to the cardiac ICU, he said something like, ‘Good job, Ben, you saved his life.’ From that time on, I wanted to be like cutting-edge research to all patients, regardless of race, eth- A man of faith, Abad said he leaned heavily on his faith to get nicity, or socioeconomic status. ” through the worst part of the pandemic. Ben, who was a medic during the Vietnam War. I wanted to save lives. I As another nomination read, “Exceptional care and attention One of Abad’s nominators wrote: “Aristotle is always to detail. Debbie is the best!” passionate about giving the best care and exemplifies the “When the wanted to be a nurse.” caring heart. He advocates for the needs of the patients. pandemic began, Growing up in Fort Bend County, B BB Alvarez graduated from Lamar Con- There have been challenging moments in the critical care people were unit, but his positive attitude creates an atmosphere that solidated High School and enrolled in helps others and creates happiness and peace of mind. It separated from Wharton County Junior College’s Andrew Bueno, RN Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is always nice to work to a nurse who is knowledgeable, their families. We Memorial Hermann Southeast motivated, cheerful, pleasant and energetic. program and later transferred to Houston Community College. Hospital “His love of work was truly visible during the pandem- were all they had, ANDREW ic, helping in crises, taking extra shifts, staying at the so we took time at In his career, he has specialized in Some nurses unknowingly have changed BUENO hospital for six straight days and, at the same time, he caring for critically ill patients, but is attitudes — even lives — with the way they’ve kept our unit focused. He deserves this award for making the bedside to talk taking a year off from the demand- treated a patient or handled situations. Follow- a great impact on the lives of our patients as well our with them, ing, faster-paced nursing areas. ing is one example about dedicated nurse Andrew Bueno. team itself. He is our star and, indeed, is a modern-day However, whatever his assign- “I’ve never been comfortable with nurses and had bad expe- hero to us all.” reassuring them...” ment, he takes pride in taking care of riences with them, from bad attitudes to … being not taken his patients’ medical needs and their seriously,” a patient and nominator said. “Andrew made me feel “Our profession is challenging, but so rewarding,” Danny Alvarez, Top 15 Nurse, comfort and then, as time permits, very comfortable and accepted. He took my pain and discom- Abad said. “I believe it is a calling requiring you to up- Memorial Hermann Sugar Land taking care of their human needs as fort seriously and saw me as a person, not just another patient date your skills, compassionately attend to the needs of Hospital patients, and to always remember, you are handling a well. he had to deal with. When I started to cry, he … understood life, a loved one, a family member — and are there to give “When the pandemic began, that I was in severe pain from gallstones and helped me your best.” people were separated from their breathe. When I was taken to surgery, he was the first one to families. We were all they had, so we took time at the bedside to check on me. And this was after he had mentioned he had won B BB talk with them, reassuring them and comforting them as we his fight with COVID and had been in the ICU. After recovering could,” he said. his strength, he had come back to work to help people even As one nomination stated: “I am a nurse who was infected though returning meant continuing to battle the same disease Karla Abela, Ph.D., RN, CCRN-K, CPN with COVID and was hospitalized. I was scared, in pain, and sad that almost killed him. He deserves recognition for the love and Texas Children’s Hospital — Main Campus that I could not be around my family. Danny was an exceptional compassion he has for his patients.” RN and was attentive to all my needs. As I was crying, this man Bueno, who grew up in Houston, said he had role models A nurse since 2003, Karla Abela grew up near Toronto, held my hand and wiped my tears away. He gifted me the posi- who led him to a career helping others. Canada. As a student at Philip Pocock Catholic Secondary tivity and therapeutic touch I needed for my healing process. I “At first I wanted to help them, to educate them to make School, she developed a strong interest in science, which was know he was busy, but he still pulled a chair up beside my bed better choices for their health,” he said. “So I enrolled in San only natural, since her father was a physician and calmly spoke to me and explained the plan of care and Jacinto (College) Central and earned my ADN, where I was given and his mother, a microbiologist. Finding a medications I was receiving. a strong foundation.” career in the sciences was an obvious choice, “He even recognized that my nose was bleeding due to After taking a job at the hospital, “the more I worked and but becoming a nurse was not, even though oxygen that I was receiving and placed a humidifier that helped more patients I saw, my goals shifted a bit,” Bueno said. “Now, her sister had become a nurse. relieve the soreness in my nostrils. He went above and beyond I’m inspired by nurses and students, wanting to make sure they “I received a few academic scholarships for to show me kindness and warm my heart with encouragement get the same strong foundation I was given. ” pre-med in Canada,” she said, “but after a at a time that I felt like I was fighting for my life. His care for me Bueno, who received his RN in 2010, has spent six years of KARLA semester, I took time off to refocus my career has changed the way that I practice as an RN, and has made me his nursing career in ICU and four years in the emergency ABELA because I wasn’t 100 percent sold on a career believe in the healing power of therapeutic touch. I will be room. He is currently at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital. in medicine. I then volunteered at a children’s forever grateful to Danny.” “In both of the areas where I’ve worked, the patients I saw rehabilitation center in Canada. Being there and working with When asked about his selection as a Top 15 Nurse this year, are having some of the worst days of their lives,” he said. “It’s the kids, to my surprise, fueled my desire to become a nurse. I Alvarez is quick to deflect the praise. my responsibility to deliver the meds and see that the patients knew the hours would be long. I knew there would be shift “I checked with management and learned it was real — I still receive the treatments their doctors have ordered, but I am also work, but helping kids really appealed to me. I’m at my best couldn’t believe it, but it’s such a high honor and so unexpect- there to be present for them. Some of our patients are on venti- when helping others, something that must be in my DNA, ed. I’m fortunate to work with an amazing team. I don’t think lators and may not be able to speak. Others may be in a coma. because I saw my family dedicate themselves to others.” you could find a better group of nurses any- It’s my job to make sure they are as comfortable as possible, Enrolling at Toronto’s Humber College, Abela was a graduate where,” he said. and I am there to do everything possible to achieve that.” from one of the last diploma nursing programs in Canada. A colleague’s nomination stated: “After my class graduated, nurses were required to have a B BB “Andrew Bueno has been an ICU and ER nurse. He is always bachelor’s degree,” she said. the first one in the room to lend a hand and help the team. Duke University Hospital in North Carolina recruited Abela, Andrew serves as an excellent preceptor for new graduate who initially worked in an adult unit. Debbie Barrera, RN, BSN nurses entering the ER for their first job. “I learned quickly I should be in pediatric unit because I Texas Children’s Hospital/ “Andrew also has been a valuable resource throughout the believe you should have fun in your career, and I found that in DEBBIE COVID-19 pandemic.” pediatrics,” she said, but she wanted to do more. Baylor College of Medicine BARRERA For his contributions, Bueno won the leadership award for In August 2014, she moved over to Texas Children’s Hospital. A nurse for 15 years, Debbie Barrera is an being night shift preceptor, and the team Daisy award. “I earned my master’s degree in 2013 and had two of my instructor on faculty in the Department of Pediatrics, and nurse “COVID has been a difficult time…. Now we’re seeing many boys. During my doctoral studies at UT School of Nursing, I had manager for the Departmental Research Resource Office (RRO). fewer cases, and even with the vaccine, we’re still practicing my third son. The Ph.D. prepares nurse scientists; it also pre- In this role, she manages 20-plus clinical study coordinators and safety protocols, as nurses and in our personal lives,” he said. pared me to lead teams of nurse researchers — to think bigger,” four data managers, and in doing so, supports 73 actively enroll- she said. ing clinical trials at Baylor College of Medicine’s affiliate hospital, An integral part of any institution, nurse scientists generate Texas Children’s Hospital. Health heroes continues on H4 Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H3

The many facesofUTHealth salute thenursesof Houston

Youare theheroesonthe frontline–showing up when ourcity needsyou themost. Youare thelifelinefor patients andfamilies–providing treatment forinjuryand disease, combined with tremendous compassion. Youare theeducators andstudents –meetingthe critical call for thenextgenerationofnursing leaders. Youare theresearchers –discovering innovative ways to improve health care systemsand create healthiercommunities. Youare ourneighbors,friends andhealthcarepartners. Youare thenursesofHouston.Thankyou. H4 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle PRESENTING SPONSOR From the front lines to envisioning hope at Houston Methodist Hospital

By Valerie Sweeten navirus,” Metts said. “One of the most FREELANCE WRITER difficult experiences was watching pa- tients have final conversations with their When the pandemic first began, nurs- families via an electronic device. I’ll es faced an ever-changing world of emo- remember all the patients where I was tions and adaptability at Houston Meth- privileged to be part of their last mo- odist Hospital. ments talking to families.” Tabatha L. Ketner, BSN, RN, CPAN, As vaccines have rolled out, hope has perianesthesia educator and PreOp persevered, as have the nurses. charge, said that working with COVID “I am amazed at the resilience of patients became a “humbling experi- health care workers,” Ketner said. “The ence.” team dynamics my coworkers exhibited “It was disheartening to be with pa- inspire me. Whatever was needed, they tients and feel detached because of per- were willing and ready, including step- sonal protective equipment,” Ketner said. ping in for high-risk staff.” “The personal connection that’s so im- Frankiewicz said that partnerships portant became harder to establish, but between caregivers was vital. it didn’t stop us from trying. Patients “It was (possible) through extreme Kevin Belinda were isolated from the world, struggling teamwork, multidisciplinary care and Jacobson Metts to breathe.” coordination with constant support from With COVID’s onset and having to Photos courtesy of Houston Methodist everyone,” she said. provide care to strictly ICU/IMU patients, Jacobson also has been inspired dur- nurse practitioner in the HMH critical ing the last year. care/nurse practitioner service line, when a service-learning experience were better able to support our cowork- “Our team’s hard work was evidenced Cassandra Frankiewicz, MSN, APRN, changed his life. When COVID hit, he ers in other departments when needed,” by how confident we felt while caring for AGACNP-BC, knew her work was cut out worked in the cardiovascular operating Jacobson said. COVID-positive patients. It really speaks for her. room in Walter Tower providing care for Belinda Metts, RN, MSN, CCRN, NE-BC to how passionate our team is about “During each surge, patient acuity patients needing procedures, with some and nurse manager Alkek 9 IMU, chose performing world-class care, no matter became more difficult and challenging. of the patients having a COVID status nursing to directly impact patients in the the circumstances,” he said. The NPs provided support and resources positive or pending. hospital setting. She was a manager on an Metts was immensely thankful that a for the bedside nurses and performed “Caring for COVID patients continu- acute care floor that was selected to be- vaccine was developed. dual roles. We helped support providers ously affected our practice as we were come a COVID unit as the pandemic “It was such a relief to know that there in the ICUs during the surges as addition- creating, learning, and performing up- evolved. was an intervention available to impact al ICU beds/units were created,” she said. dated and/or new processes and solutions “Changes to the way we provided care the trajectory of this awful virus,” she Kevin Jacobson, BSN, RN, CNOR chose based on the available evidence and best changed every hour at the beginning as said. “I had hope for the first time in a nursing after studying abroad in Brazil practices. We attended training so that we we increased our knowledge about coro- year, and it felt wonderful.”

“Caring for COVID patients continuously affected our practice as we were creating, learning, and performing updated and/or new processes and solutions based on the available evidence and best practices.”

Kevin Jacobson, BSN, RN, CNOR, Houston Methodist Hospital

Health heroes from page H2 up outside Lafayette, Louisiana. Her father was maintenance recommendations. She was hired immediately. superintendent and her mother a CRNA at the local hospital. As As the hospital began receiving COVID cases in 2020, the He also said hospital administration maintained safety and kept a child, Collins spent a lot of time at that hospital, and this workload increased, often causing hospital personnel to be staff updated about new discoveries about the coronavirus and exposure to health care professions plus strong role models led shifted to areas where skills were matched with patient needs. new findings passed down from the Centers for Disease Control to her career in nursing. “It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary,” Collins said, “and we’re and the state. After high school, she attended the University of New Orle- fortunate to receive updates on COVID every day as well as links “We were given the tools as they were ans, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology to articles that provide information.” discovered or became available,” he said. “We with minor in psychology before going on to earn her RN. At While Collins’ assignments are often difficult, she provides were all in the fight together.” that time, she was one of 12 applicants selected to a new cohort the best of care, based on evidence-based practices and hard for a one-year, fast-track BSN at UT School of Nursing. work, as one nomination from a patient’s family stated: B BB After completing her BSN, she began her nursing degree at “My father was critically ill when he was sent to the cardiac Park Plaza Hospital, but after a year, two physicians spoke with intensive care unit at Houston Methodist. Luckily, Shannon was her, urging her to leave the community hospital in order to working there. She provided the utmost in compassion and care Shannon Collins, BS, BSN, RN broaden her experience. in keeping him comfortable over a period of days. She ex- Houston Methodist Hospital SHANNON Both doctors were so impressed with her nursing skills, she plained the physiological process that was affecting him in a COLLINS Shannon Collins, a nurse for 16 years, grew arrived at Houston Methodist with high praise for her skills and Honorees continues on H8

San Jacinto Bachelor of Science in Nursing

San Jacinto College’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN-to-BSN) is forworking registered nurses who want to advance within the profession. This learner-centered program opens the door to better professional opportunities and increased earning potential.

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Learn moreatsanjac.edu/BSN An Equal Opportunity Institution Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H5 H6 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle

DIAMOND SPONSOR UT Physicians and Cizik School of Nursing faculty, students are on a vaccine mission

By Valerie Sweeten DrPH, MSN, RN, and dean mission. FREELANCE WRITER of the Cizik School of “I could not be more Nursing at UTHealth, said proud of the professional- hen the faculty they knew this was an ism of our students, ea- Wand students of opportunity that offered gerness to run toward the the Cizik service-learning beneficial problem, and ability to School of Nursing at UTH- for students’ technical utilize compassion and ealth discovered vaccines skills practice. talent to address this would be accessible to the “Once students arrived global public health crisis. community, they jumped for their first day, they I am confident Houston is into action, in a fully col- were met with the gentle in good hands given what laborative effort with UT and effective mentoring of I see among our students Physicians. Makita, who eased their as the future nursing Makita Franklin, BSN, nerves and showed them workforce. Nurses are the RN, clinical educator at the ropes of getting the heart of health care, and UT Physicians, was asked shots in the arms safely they continue to make us to train staff and learned and efficiently. This so proud,” she said. additional help would be helped them understand Franklin agreed. needed to handle the the management of a “This has been a beauti- workload. Her first public health effort to ful and fulfilling experi- thought was to invite the distribute vaccines as ence for the staff, stu- Cizik School of Nursing quickly and safely as pos- dents, and our vaccine students, with whom she sible. recipients. They are very had worked administering “We knew to make this encouraging to the stu- the flu vaccine after Hurri- happen seven days a dents, and I see so much cane Harvey. week, student nurses growth — from their first Each student adminis- were the core to the suc- day to their last day,” tering the vaccine is edu- cess of the mission,” she Franklin said. “And none cated about the impor- said. of this would be possible tance of handling the Santa Maria said she’s without the amazing UT vaccine as well as proper truly in awe of the “Many Physicians staff who injection technique. They Faces of UTHealth,” and helped support me and are allowed to observe the they are many under one the students.” process until they feel Courtesy of UTHealth confident to continue on Makita Franklin, clinical educator at UT Physicians, was asked to train staff and their own. After this, they learned more help would be needed to handle the vaccination workload. begin to administer shots under observation by Franklin or another nurse tered many obstacles information. They want to “The main goal is to who is lead for the day. because everyone was, do a good job. Every vac- ensure that the vaccinator “We haven’t encoun- and is, so receptive of the cinator receives the same is comfortable with the training, no matter their training material at the credentials, so everyone beginning of their shift,” learns together,” Franklin Franklin said. “Each stu- said. dent is paired with a “Once students arrived for their first Once students and member of our clinical faculty were offered the staff to use as a resource. day, they were met with the gentle and vaccine to assure personal This health care profes- effective mentoring of Makita, who safety, the faculty utilized sional can monitor, and the simulation lab at the answer questions the eased their nerves and showed them Cizik School of Nursing to student may have during provide additional educa- their time administering Courtesy of UTHealth the ropes…” tion about the COVID-19 vaccines. I make sure I am Joining the mission was Natasha Bardwell, a student Diane M. Santa Maria, DrPH, MSN, RN, and dean, pandemic, the virus itself, available to them.” nurse at Cizik School of Nursing, administering the Cizik School of Nursing at UTHealth and technical skills. Diane M. Santa Maria, COVID-19 vaccine.

Formore information on College of Nursing programs and deadlines visit the website at uh.edu/nursing

BSN Tracks –Traditional BSN,Second DegreeBSN, RN to BSN *

MSNTracks –Administration, Education, Family Nurse Practitioner*

PostMaster’sCertificate –Administration, Education

NEW Post Master’sDoctor of Nursing Practice(DNP) – Administration, Family NursePractitioner (ApprovedbyTHECB. Final approval by SACS-COCpending.)

*The baccalaureate degree program in nursing and the master’sdegree program in nursing at the University of Houston College of Nursing areaccredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, 655 KStreet NW,Suite 750, Washington, DC 20001, 202-887-6791. Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H7

NO MATTER WHICH OBSTACLES ARISE, OUR NURSES REMAIN STRONG AND RESILIENT, STANDING READYTOFULFILL OUR PROMISE TO THECOMMUNITY. THANK YOU.

From ice storms and power losses to the slow but steady progress through the pandemic, we recognize nurses in the Memorial Hermann Health System for your never-failing hardwork, courage and compassion. Youserve your patients, community and each other with grace and dignity every single day.Most importantly,you continue to provide an incredible source of support and hope for everyone in Greater Houston.

We areendlessly proud of the positive impact created by our Memorial Hermann family,and extend the warmest thanks to each and every one of you for your part in helping us improve health and extend hope for all.

jobs.memorialhermann.org/thank-you H8 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle SPONSOR Texas Children’s is stronger together amid COVID-19 pandemic Patient and family-cen- pointments,” Ward said. retain top talent while also tered care remains at the Nurses are a critical improving safety, patient core of nursing practice at part of the reason outcomes and overall satis- Texas Children’s Hospital. Texas Children’s is consis- faction, among other bene- “It has been a challeng- tently recognized as one of fits. ing year and we are so the best children’s hospitals Part of the hospital’s proud of the unwavering in the nation by U.S. News & commitment to its nurses is commitment our nurses World Report, and why the valuing their overall well- have demonstrated through ness. For example, in re- excellence in quality, safety, “Our nurses are sponse to the demands of outcomes and patient and the pandemic, nearly 40 family centered care,” said empowered and respite rooms were estab- Jackie Ward, DNP, RN, NE- involved in lished across the organiza- BC, chief nursing officer at decision making, tion to provide caregivers Texas Children’s Hospital. with a quiet place to relax “The dedication, care and from helping to and decompress. compassion our nurses establish the “The well-being of our show every day is inspiring, nurses is a priority because and this past year has hospital’s we know personal health shown us more than ever COVID-19 and well-being is the foun- that we are stronger, to- dation for providing the gether.” guidelines to best care possible to our Throughout the transforming and patients and families,” COVID-19 pandemic, nurses innovating Ward said. Courtesy of Allen S. Kramer/Texas Children’s Hospital at Texas Children’s have Texas Children’s nurses Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, nurses at Texas Children’s have displayed displayed incredible bedside care…” also work tirelessly to give incredible strength and resilience — adapting quickly to changes, navigating new strength and resilience — back to the Houston com- challenges and initiating collaborative partnerships that drive evidence-based care. Jackie Ward, chief nursing adapting quickly to chang- officer, Texas Children’s Hospital munity. While COVID-19 has es, navigating new challeng- limited their efforts to sionate care extends be- the community at large,” for cardiology and heart es and initiating collab- volunteer in the communi- yond the workplace.” Ward said. “It’s critical that surgery for the fourth year orative partnerships that ty, they have found in- Another way the more we set an example as nurs- in a row. drive evidence-based care. organization has been a novative ways to give back than 3,500 RNs at es in getting the vaccine, as “We could not achieve “Our nurses are empow- Magnet®-designated hospi- by contributing to efforts to Texas Children’s have been the community looks to us the excellence we do with- ered and involved in deci- tal by the American Nurses fund caregiver food trays leading the way is advocat- for guidance.” out the work and dedica- sion making, from helping Credentialing Center since and supporting clothing ing for vaccination. In 2020, U.S. News & tion of our nurses,” Ward to establish the hospital’s 2003 — the gold standard drives to benefit patients. “Texas Children’s nurses World Report’s survey of said. “I am proud to cele- COVID-19 guidelines to for nursing excellence and “We always say that are leading in their person- Best Children’s Hospitals brate with them each and transforming and innovat- high-quality patient care. nurses at Texas Children’s al and professional lives by once again confirmed every day.” ing bedside care, such as Having the prestigious listen with their hearts,” getting vaccinated against Texas Children’s is one of shifting to drive-through Magnet® designation helps Ward said. “We are proud COVID-19 to protect our the best in the nation and — Texas Children’s Hospital clinics and video visit ap- Texas Children’s attract and that their kind and compas- patients, their families and ranked No. 1 in the nation

Honorees from page H4 “Shannon monitored his condition and communicated with B BB us every step of the way. She tended to our father’s hygiene and way that helped me understand it very clearly. appearance…. At every step, we could feel Shannon’s care and Cassandra Duran, DNP, RN, FNP-BC “She put in extra hours and was completely dedicated to compassion, not only for our father, but for us. Shannon gave Baylor College of Medicine making it the best experience anyone could hope for as we our family the very best care during one of the most challenging grieved the situation. Shannon’s extra measures gave us com- times in our lives. I will forever be grateful for Shannon’s care Fourteen-year nursing veteran Cassandra fort and peace of mind. My family was beyond grateful for her during that time.” Duran, with Baylor College of Medicine, was compassion.” Although the last 12 months have been difficult for her, she the first college graduate in her family. CASSANDRA DURAN Another nomination read: “After my father suffered a sudden will be marrying her fiance in a small wedding in Aspen, Colora- “I set the bar for my siblings, their children stroke, Shannon helped our family to understand what had do. Both she and her fiance have lost parents preceding their and my own education as well,” she said. happened and the prognosis. We came to understand that our marriage, and she described how she could not see her mother “Even as a student, my teachers always told I had lots of poten- father would not recover and had suffered tremendous brain prior to her death and so was well-equipped to empathize with tial — and, to be honest, I believed them. I definitely had posi- damage. We made the decision, based on our father’s wishes, the families who were separated by the pandemic. tive influences in high school and college, but my mom was my not to put him on any life-sustaining machines. Nurse leaders continues on H12

We want to thanknurses from thebottomofour hearts. We appreciate allthatyou do andthe time yougiveonthe frontline takingcareofour families,friends,neighbors, andcommunity. Yo utruly make St.Luke’sHealthaspecialplace,thank you. Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H9 Ournurses changethecourse of healthcare.

Even as apandemic testsusall, our nursespush their ownlimits forthe people of Harris County.Implementing innovative, lifesaving treatments. Enabling us to maintain routinemedical services while providing specialized COVID-19 care. And earning our hospitals eliteMagnet status—noeasyfeatinthe best of times. Theyare truly your healthcarechampions.

harrishealth.org H10 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle

SPONSOR Memorial Hermann Health System celebrates nurses for excellence in patient care

ince the beginning of the Their ongoing efforts continue to be COVID-19 pandemic, nurses have honored, with a record number of Salute Sbeen there for everyone. No mat- to Nurses nominations submitted this ter the challenge, they do their jobs with past year. Even more, Memorial Her- courage, compassion, and an unwa- mann Health System is proud to be vering dedication to excellence in patient recognized by the American Nurses care. Credentialing Center across many of Memorial Hermann recognizes the their facilities, including Magnet® desig- innate value of its nurses, each of whom nations at Memorial Hermann-Texas has dedicated their lives to improving Medical Center, Memorial Hermann the health of Greater Houston. Even Greater Heights Hospital, Memorial outside of work, Memorial Hermann Hermann Memorial City Medical Center, nurses give their personal time to sup- and Memorial Hermann Southwest port the community, with hundreds Hospital. volunteering at mass vaccination events “Our nurses are a critical element in to help distribute COVID-19 vaccines the foundation of our organization. They these past few months. do amazing work that helps our patients “At Memorial Hermann, nursing isn’t heal and recover from illnesses and just a job, it’s an opportunity to be a part accidents,” said Dr. David Callender, of something great,” said Catherine president and CEO of Memorial Her- Giegerich, vice president and chief nurs- mann. “I am in awe of their compassion, ing officer at Memorial Hermann The dedication and skills on a daily basis, and Woodlands Medical Center. “We are all Courtesy of Memorial Hermann they are all heroes to me.” proud to serve our community, and our Memorial Hermann recognizes the innate value of its nurses, each of whom has — Memorial Hermann dedication to that mission shows.” dedicated their lives to improving the health of Greater Houston.

SPONSOR New Doctor of Nursing Practice program prepares next-gen nurse leaders

Leadership is a corner- “What we’ve learned in stone of advanced practice the time of COVID is that health care. After a year of now is the time for leader- pandemic, the call for lead- ship,” said Kathryn Tart, ers to usher in new health professor and founding policies, protocols and dean of the UH College of education is urgent. Nursing. “We have cared for Courtesy of UH College of Nursing The University of Hous- our community all through The University of Houston College of Nursing’s DNP program is designed for working nurses and is offered ton College of Nursing pre- the pandemic. Advanced in a hybrid delivery method (classes online and face to face). pares the next generation of practice nurses are critical.” nursing leaders and clini- The DNP program is administration. The pro- partners. ing Doctor of Nursing Prac- approval by the Southern cians with the Doctor of designed for working nurses gram spans 37-42 credit “The University of Hous- tice is approved by The Association of Colleges and Nursing Practice (DNP), a and is offered in a hybrid hours over five to eight ton College of Nursing is Texas Higher Education Schools Commission on post-master’s program delivery method (classes semesters. positioning itself to continue Coordinating Board and is Colleges. providing evidenced-based online and face to face). Additionally, students of the critical work of educat- accepting applications for For more information practice in direct patient Students can choose be- the DNP program can ex- ing nurses to meet state and fall 2021. Deadline to apply and to apply, visit online at care and leadership, quality tween two post-master’s pect to complete clinical national needs for nurses in is June 1, 2021. Final admis- https://uh.edu/nursing. improvement and systems tracks: the family nurse contact hours with excellent the workforce,” Tart said. sion for all approved DNP — The University of leadership. practitioner or nursing experiences with practice The UH College of Nurs- students is pending the Houston College of Nursing

Because we can’t say thank you enough.

In ayear filled with uncertainty,Baylor Medicine wasable to rely on you, our nurses, to provide exceptional caretopatients near and far. Your dedication is unprecedented and we aregrateful to have youonour team.

Join the Baylor Medicine team!

Forjob opportunities visit baylormedicine.org/nurse

There’s every reason to chooseBaylor Medicine.

©2021Baylor Medicine.All rights reserved. Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H11 Nursing student scholarship recipients exemplify excellence

By Emilia Benton step closer to making a difference in the ever-changing Natalie Filer is a junior in the nursing program and FREELANCE WRITER and challenging world of health care. I aim to make a scheduled to graduate in May 2022. She has always had difference in my Houston community, and this schol- a passion for the medical field, ever since she was in Every year as part of the Houston Chronicle’s Salute arship will be an important factor when it comes to middle school. to Nurses program, three outstanding nursing students affording the education I need to do that.” “In high school, I took are awarded a scholarship to serve as assistance to various health science support their nursing educational endeavors. This • Lance Edwards, Cizik School of Nursing at courses and through these tradition is celebrated by the Chronicle every year The University of Texas Health Science Center various courses I realized during National Nurses Week, which takes place at Houston (UTHealth) that I had a strong connec- May 6-12. tion with … nursing,” she As part of their award, the recipients receive a $1,000 A senior in the nursing program at UTHealth, Lance said. “Ultimately, I pur- scholarship; two invitations to the Salute to Nurses Edwards is set to graduate in August. sued a career in nursing to drive-thru celebration held Thursday, May 6, at the Originally from London, where he worked as a li- give each patient I en- Houston Chronicle; an award at the appreciation event; censed psychologist, Edwards found his license didn’t counter the proper care … and recognition in the Houston Chronicle Salute to carry over from the U.K. when he arrived in Houston. and build relationships Nurses section. As a result, he spent a decade working as a multi- with patients.” This year’s recipients are: systemic therapist in the Filer’s goals for her criminal justice system, nursing career are to pro- • Erica Coleman, University of Texas Medical working with adolescents vide each patient with the Branch School of Nursing through the court system. care they deserve. He found that he “I strongly believe that Erica Coleman is a third-semester nursing student in missed working in the each patient should be the accelerated BSN program at UTMB, and is set to medical setting since he NATALIE FILER treated with equality no graduate in December. worked in hospitals in the matter their background She has dreamed of being a nurse since she was 15 U.K., and began consider- and choices,” she said. “The beauty of nursing to me is and was eventually accepted into the advanced nursing ing his next career move. being able to interact with others of many different pathway program organized by Klein ISD and Lone Star “I decided I didn’t real- backgrounds and cultures.” College that allowed high school students admittance ly want to do psychology Filer is also aiming to be as active as possible within into the licensed vocational nursing program. over here and after a rela- the nursing community, to pay it forward the way peo- She has since obtained her LVN license and is con- tive went to an emergency ple helped her as she pursued a career in nursing. tinuing her nursing education to become an RN, BSN. room at Methodist West, I “As of now, I am wanting to pursue a career within “I decided to pursue saw that the staff was the neonatal intensive care unit or labor and delivery,” nursing to care for people fantastic and it made me she said. “With two semesters of nursing school left I in their worst times as LANCE EDWARDS start thinking this was am keeping an open mind. I know wherever I am well as their happiest maybe what I wanted to placed will help me continue to grow and develop with- times, with the desire to do,” he said. in my nursing career.” make a difference in Edwards then began to pursue an academic path for She added, “Receiving this scholarship means so someone’s life by giving nursing and found that taking the prerequisites was much to me, and I am so surprised and excited. I am a encouragement, providing more of a challenge here than what they require in the Houston native and I remember as a young child going strength, providing com- U.K., as they took a couple of years. to get the newspaper in the front lawn each Sunday, fort, and care for all as- “It was a career shift for me, but I’m very glad I and receiving this from the Houston Chronicle is truly pects of a person,” she chose this path because I really love it,” Edwards said. an honor.” said. He is hoping to pursue emergency nursing as his Coleman is open to all specialty and eventually work in an ER, or potentially specialties within the in medical-surgical nursing. nursing field, though she “I’ve got kids, so one of the challenges of pursuing a is particularly interested full-time course load is that I gave up my career that I WHERE TO FIND US in exploring critical care had before, making [finances] a little tighter,” he said. Salute to Nurses is produced Section editors nursing. Other future “This scholarship will not only help with that, but the ERICA COLEMAN by the Houston Chronicle Kathy Haveman, Team Lead career goals include creat- acknowledgment also means a great deal and it’s a Custom Publishing Group, a [email protected] ing a platform for the nursing community, travel nurs- fantastic addition to have on a resume. It’s going to specialized division of the ing, and nurse entrepreneurship. help me stand out against other people when going for Houston Chronicle. Paula Santilli “I’m interested in providing care for unstable pa- jobs and will be beneficial when I’m applying for my [email protected] tients and bringing them back to their ultimate health residency in a few weeks’ time.” P.O. Box 4260 status,” Coleman said. “These critical skills will provide Houston, TX 77210 Advertising the necessary knowledge for me to continue my career • Natalie Filer, the University of St. Thomas 713-362-3131 Jeni Heard as a CRNA.” Peavy School of Nursing [email protected] She added, “This scholarship will allow me to be one

YourCompassion. Our Passion!

NOWOFFERING Bachelor’s Degreesin Nursing. LoneStar.edu/BSN

05.05.21 H12 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle

EDUCATION SPONSOR San Jac’s first BSN students near finish line

While many people change careers after crises in life, few er education,” she said. The three-semester, have mirrored each other as much as Jermeece Augustine After getting stalled in 31-credit-hour program at and Josue Reyes. other schools’ admissions the Central Campus in- Augustine and Reyes both chose nursing after watching processes, she spotted a San cludes both face-to-face and compassionate nurses care for family members in ICU. After Jac BSN billboard. That was online courses in an eight- completing San Jacinto College associate degree nursing her “Let me get in on this!” week format. Tuition is programs, they became medical surgical nurses. moment. approximately $2,400 for In fall 2020, they copied each other again, joining San Reyes, who graduated in in-district students and Jac’s inaugural Bachelor of Science in Nursing cohort to 2020, looked forward to $4,200 for out-of-district advance their nursing skills. studying under his former students. As their summer 2021 graduation nears, Augustine, Reyes, ADN instructor. Dr. Edward Classes focus on every- and 21 other BSN students are mastering complex concepts Nichols, now the BSN pro- Photos courtesy of SJC thing from health care now to meet evolving health care tomorrow. fessor, made learning engag- Jermeece Augustine Josue Reyes trends and public/global ing and relevant. health policy to legal mat- ‘Let me get in on this’ “I knew this program would exceed my expectations ters, ethics, and leadership. A 2018 San Jac graduate, Augustine applied for several when I read who was going to be my professor,” he said. “The program offers excellent opportunities to expand BSN programs after working a few years, knowing her pro- Thanks to the program’s clear expectations and manage- your knowledge as a nurse — not to mention the tuition is fessional growth depended on more education. able deadlines, students can juggle assignments along with cheaper than going to a university,” Reyes said. “Definitely hospitals are leaning toward nurses with high- work and home life. Augustine has also encouraged coworkers to apply be- After graduation, cause of small class sizes and rigor. Augustine and Reyes will “Upper-level courses require outside-the-box thinking, finally pursue different Thanks to the program’s problem solving, and learning how to communicate with paths. She wants to clear expectations and others,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much of a leader I advance in her career at manageable deadlines, could be.” CHI St. Luke’s Patients students can juggle Medical Center, while he Application period open now envisions becoming a assignments along with The application period for the second BSN cohort (start- flight nurse. work and home life. ing fall 2021) is open now through June 30. A third cohort will begin in spring 2022. Leadership training Launched in fall 2020, San Jac’s BSN program is a candi- ground date for initial accreditation by the Accreditation Commis- Today, more health care employers seek BSN-prepared sion for Education in Nursing. nurses who can keep pace with evolving health care. San For more information, contact RN-to-BSN department Jac’s BSN program ensures nurses can get the degree quick- chair Dr. Veronica Jammer at 281-476-1842 or san- Courtesy of San Jacinto College ly, conveniently, and affordably. [email protected]. Or visit www.sanjac.edu/bsn. San Jac’s BSN program ensures nurses can get the “We have continued to meet the demands of the health — San Jacinto College degree quickly, conveniently, and affordably. care environment,” Nichols said.

Nurse leaders from page H8 pause and then a cause to be appreciative for the simple things. Taking precautions and wearing PPE was a priority since Since we’ve all experienced the pandemic, I think people are teams were delivering one or two COVID-infected moms per biggest motivator.” less detached, less self-centered.” day. Some of these moms’ babies came due for delivery and As Duran was growing up, her mother — because of chronic they came to the hospital in respiratory distress. health issues — was in and out of the hospital. B BB “The larger hospitals had even more of these patients with “On the weekends, I would go stay with her, and that gave COVID and at times, some of the downtown hospitals were at me the opportunity to watch the nurses who made a difference capacity with the OB-COVID patients,” she said. in my mom’s life, and I was moved by what I saw,” she said. Jennifer Esparza, BSN, RNC-OB, C-ONQS As one nomination described her: “Jennifer is caring and Duran began her nursing education with a strong foundation Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital compassionate in interactions with patients and coworkers. She from San Jacinto College’s Associate Degree in Nursing program. Jennifer Esparza is the daughter of a coach and she became had worked to establish the Code Lilac Team at our hospital “As soon as I earned my RN, I went to work in critical care at an athletic trainer for high school football and basketball. After and worked with members of the Code Lilac Team in the Medi- Ben Taub General Hospital,” she said. “My work there made me graduating in 1992, she wasn’t positive about cal Center to bring this program to Memorial Hermann South- realize there was so much to learn and how there were so many her niche in the career world. east Hospital. The team consists of a chaplain and other team lives depending on you and the skills you have as a nurse.” “My godfather/counselor pointed out that all members who have been trained for emotional debriefing on “I also was fortunate to have had a lot of great mentors,” she my college credits, thus far, fit perfectly with units that experience stressful events and happenings in the said. “They taught me what genuine quality care looked like. the associate degree requirements in nursing,” process of patient care and day-to-day stressors. And they taught me we usually see patients during the worst she said. “While I was thinking about taking “She has helped train team members and organized a call possible time in their lives.” the path into nursing, I began working as an schedule so that when team members experience emotional A bedside nurse for seven years, Duran wanted to do more JENNIFER assistant in a women’s clinic and fell in love stress, they can call the Code Lilac Team to schedule a debrief- and make more of a difference. The mom of four was led to the ESPARZA with women’s services.” ing to help with stress.” Family Nurse Practitioner training program. After completing an ADN at Delmar College, Even when Code Lilacs are not called, Esparza has created “I wanted to try the clinic environment so I could have a set Esparza continued her education, earning a BSN through the gift baskets and individual bags for units dealing with the stress schedule, and the FNP track offered more of what I was looking Western Governors University online program. She said she of caring for COVID-19 patients. for. I wanted to go into work, be challenged, and work more chose this school because it provides people who are working “Jenn is always thinking of the needs of her patients and independently, and that caused me to further my education,” with the flexibility of moving through the curriculum at their coworkers. We are blessed to have her as a member of our she said. own pace. team,” a nominator stated. When she was a bedside nurse at Ben Taub, “Throughout my career,” she said, “I also she fell in love with underserved population. COVID restrictions have had great leaders, great friendships and a B BB “The clinical setting offered to FNPs al- allowed (babies’) great family who have encouraged me to reach lowed me to serve the underserved, to help fathers to be with higher.” Maureen Lall, Ph.D., APRN, FNP-BC, them. Instead of treating acute situations, I Esparza’s heart is in labor and delivery, found we could start early in the clinical their wives, but the because she likes the ability to be there for COHN-S, SCRN setting and prevent many of those acute is- limit was one person people. Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital sues. — and whoever was “A birth involves more than one person,” In her 30 years as a nurse, Maureen Lall is no stranger to “I also found how much I love working with the patient’s “plus Esparza said. “At the very least, there should be winning awards, but her selection as one of the Top 15 Nurses kids,” Duran said, “and there is so much work someone there the patient can trust, someone one” couldn’t leave. has taken on another meaning. to be done with kids, from prevention, educa- they know is there to care for them.” “It is a prestigious recognition and I have to tion and teaching kids and their parents where In her 17 years as a nurse, she said the pan- thank many people for getting me here,” she to find services, to providing the different demic has been the most difficult. said, “but after this past year, it is a tremen- needed resources. I also found what I was doing, day to day, “It challenged our norms,” Esparza said. “To all of us in this dous honor and will accept this recognition on was having an impact in their lives.” area of nursing, family care is an important part of patient care behalf of the great teams I work with.” Her doctoral project at Baylor focused on adolescent vaccina- … and during COVID, especially at the beginning, the restric- The seeds for Lall’s career were planted in tion for HPV (human papillomavirus), a sexually transmitted tions on our families were mighty. Limiting people, limiting MAUREEN her childhood in Philadelphia, and those seeds infection (STI). And one detects her passion for this mission in visiting, not allowing families into the hospital to see the new- LALL were nurtured when she served as a Candy her voice when talking about it. borns — all of these limitations created complications — especial- Striper in high school. “There is so much we can do to get the word out. We can try ly for grandparents.” “My parents are immigrants from Ireland. Neither had the to close these gaps,” she said. COVID restrictions allowed fathers to be with their wives, but opportunity for a formal education, but became lifelong learn- The nurse responded to one last question — about COVID. the limit was one person — and whoever was the patient’s “plus ers. From the beginning of their lives in the U.S., they wanted to “The pandemic didn’t change me as a person. But I saw and one” couldn’t leave. Now that person can leave the hospital, but give back to the country that welcomed them, so they started realized how COVID humbles you in a split second … giving us must be back at a certain time. Staff stars continues on H13

St.Joseph Medical Center SalutesIts HardworkingNurses.

Sister TheresaKelleher CHRISTUSHealthyLiving Mobile Clinics Houston Chronicle Top150 Nurses recipient Recognizingand celebratingthe talent,compassion &dedicationofour nurses. We saluteour medical staff fortheir tireless work and commitmenttoour patients over the last year. Thank youfor allyou do,every day.

In 1866, the Sisters of Charityofthe Incarnate Word arrived in Galveston with amission to heal“the sick and infirm of everykind.” In 1887, they expanded their reach with St. Co ngratulationstotwo of our Joseph’s Infirmary, Houston’s first general hospital. Nursesfor beingrecognized While the focushas shiftedfromhospital care to primarycareand relatedservices, as a 2021 Top150 Nurse: CHRISTUS Foundation forHealthCarecontinues the original mission by serving the needs of underservedand uninsured communities of all faiths,ages and cultures in the Greater Maria Ontoy, BSN, RN, Houston and Galveston areas.

andLisaValenzon, RN In Partnership withPhysician Owners. www .christusfoundation.org Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H13

Staff stars from page H12 SPONSOR by volunteering at the local fire and emergency service. Now there are several nurses, fire fighters and teachers in the family … and a niece will be graduating nursing school this month.” Nursing is From earning her BSN in Philadelphia to a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Pennsylvania to a Ph.D. in nursing science at Texas Woman’s University in Denton, Lall more than a job said completing her Ph.D. was a life’s ambition. “The Ph.D. was necessary so I could help establish the scientific base in nursing research. It (research) is how you — it’s a calling build the knowledge base for nursing, not just doing things because intuition makes it feel right,” she said. On the horizon, she sees a growing number of areas that The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we, as a need study, just as preventing skin breakdown in hospitals and community, look at the health care system. Many have a re- nursing homes, keeping people safe at home, the growing newed appreciation for the bravery and compassion of hospital reach of telemedicine and allowing more patients to remain at staff, and nurses are deserving of a lot of praise as they face the home with the help of technology. brunt of the pandemic. They aren’t just care providers — they “The overarching need is that of addressing and removing are heroes, lifelines, and most importantly, family to every health care disparities and the social context of how patients patient they treat. live…,” she said. For example, during the winter storm that froze the roads Lall, married to a physician, believes more nurses will enter and left much of Texas without power or running water, Noelle administration, advocacy, education, and may fill all roles in a Thomas, a NICU nurse manager at St. Luke’s Health — The day. It’s a reminder that when nurses were trained in hospitals Woodlands Hospital, went above and beyond. in the early 1900s, graduates went out into the community to Faced with a shortage of donor breast milk due to the in- provide diverse health care services. clement weather, Noelle drove to Austin to pick some up and A Peace Corps volunteer in South America, Lall recalled hand-deliver it to four different hospitals in The Woodlands. going door to door with vaccines to get health care into com- She knew how essential this milk was to the tiniest of her munities. Lall said it’s an opportunity for those who want to patients, so she didn’t bat an eye at the icy roads. serve. The nurses at St. Luke’s Health inspire us each and every “Supporting nurses in the profession, making sure they have Courtesy of St. Luke’s Health the resources they need and continuing research for them to day through their acts of human kindness, both big and small. feel confident in their practices are some of the greatest chal- Thank you for your passion, resilience, and strength. It is an NICU nurse manager Noelle Thomas’ dedication is lenges in nursing today. All outcomes are team-based. It’s a inspiration to everyone. representative of the patient-focused care St. Luke’s challenge to be a nurse,” Lall said. — St. Luke’s Health nurses strive for every day. She added that knowledge gleaned from the pandemic is invaluable. “For example, we learned the impact of families on health care outcomes. Now, families are a huge factor for positive family, and it helped us all tremendously. She would bathe her, Completing her training in 1992 at American Sentinel Univer- outcomes. From this, we’ll have improvements in family- applying lotion all over her legs, hands, arms and body. She sity and receiving her credentials as RN and BSN, Madhani has centered health care. We learned about mental health in chal- brushed out her long hair and braided it. She was our angel and been a nurse for 29 years. She has been recognized as Nurse of lenging times and professions. our hero. the Week at Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, and “The pandemic increased my appreciation of nursing care, “I found out later, through another nurse, that Giselle lost patient surveys bring high praise for her quality of care. and as a result … we have been made better. We know the her mother to COVID-19 less than a month before caring for my After coming to the U.S. 25 years ago, Madhani became a importance of everyone coming together,” she said. sister. She knew exactly what we were feeling and going pediatric nurse. She was in her early 20s. through as a family, because she had experienced the pain “A child diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome was aban- B BB herself. doned by the parents,” she said. “Because I was one of the “Giselle is compassionate, kind and absolutely loves her job. nurses assigned to take care of the child, I became very at- She told me once that she loved her job so much she wished tached. When my shift ended, I spent time with this little pa- Giselle Long, RN she could do it 24/7. tient. I saw the patient as being was part of my family. When the UTMB Jennie Sealy Hospital “My sister survived COVID-19 and is currently in a rehab patient passed away, it was like I had lost my own child. A Giselle Long, RN, one of the Houston Chronicle’s Top 15 hospital after three months of recovery. Our family would great- patient at our hospital in IMU for two years, the child was on a Nurses, is the first nurse chosen from Jennie Sealy Hospital in ly appreciate your consideration of Giselle for this award.” ventilator, but I loved that patient. I realized the most difficult Galveston. She was selected based on a nomination submitted Opening its doors in 2016, Jennie Sealy Hospital houses a part of being a nurse was seeing a patient die.” by the family of a COVID-19 patient who was hospitalized De- number of highly specialized units and reinforces the commit- “In the beginning of COVID, one of my jobs was screening cember 2020, and then moved into the intensive care unit ment of UTMB Health to provide the best possible care for patients,” Madhani said. “It became surreal. A patient would be where Long was assigned. patients and the best environment for physicians and nurses to eating lunch or walking the hall and the next thing we knew, The patient then was placed on a ventilator care for patients. It’s also a setting that nurtures and enriches they had coded and died.” in ICU and was treated for approximately six the learning experience for all UTMB students. “Once a patient was brought to the emergency department, weeks. The nomination stated: that usually was the last time they saw their family. I cannot “My sister was hospitalized on Dec. 24, B BB describe how difficult that was for everyone,” she said. “In my 2020 for COVID-19. She went to ICU on Dec. own case, my brother-in-law contracted COVID-19 back home 26, was heavily sedated and put on a ventila- and could only speak to us on FaceTime. He was dying, there tor. Giselle was one of many of her nurses. Khairunnisa Madhani, RN, BSN was nothing I could do and I was awash with feelings of help- GISELLE Memorial Hermann Sugar Land LONG Like all other hospitals, they did not allow lessness. visitors for COVID-19 patients. Our family was Hospital “I feel the same about some of the patients in wheelchairs I paralyzed with fear of losing my sister. I kept a Surrounded by nurses in her family home in work with in day surgery. They want to do everything for them- journal and called the hospital four to six times a day/night. I Karachi, Pakistan, Khairunnisa “Nisa” Madhani selves, even though I am there, wanting to help them. I don’t KHAIRUNNISA want to rob them of their independence, but I’m there to make learned all the nurses’ names and the sounds of their voice seemed predestined to become a nurse. MADHANI when I called for updates. They were all very professional and “My sister and cousin were nurses, and their lives safer and easier, just as I would do for a member of usually took the time to give as much information about my when my sister came home from work, she would discuss my own family.” sister’s condition as possible. She eventually had to have a cases, which inspired and motivated me,” she said, “and I have Madhani said the best part of her job as a nurse is seeing tracheotomy, a feeding tube and stayed in ICU until Feb. 9. vivid memories of a nurse — when I was a child — taking the patients happy and satisfied, often smiling and saying “thank “Giselle was the first nurse to offer FaceTime calls for my time to divert my attention as she gave me an injection.” you.” Dedication continues on H14

National Nurses Week •May 6-12, 2021

Ah eartfelt thank you to our Brave. Strong. amazing nurses for going above and beyond for our patients. Compassionate. Every one of you is ahero–brave, caring, and devoted. We’re immensely proud of the work Caring. Devoted. you do.

Congratulations to the Kelsey-Seybold nurses honored among Houston’sTop 150 nurses:

Patty Silva, MS, RN, NE-BC Diana Wilde, BSN, RN Hilary Chandler,BSN, RN, Nurse Manager, Nurse Manager, OCN, CRNI Pharmacy Medical Imaging Nurse Manager,Cancer Services H14 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle What is National Nursing has evolved into a profession with many Nurses Week? different paths. Now, nurses have many outstanding career choices available to them very year, National es are recognized for their a team she had trained in during their nursing Nurses Week cele- tireless work helping the nursing traveled to the E careers. brates the nursing sick and injured. main British war camp in profession and the crucial, Efforts will also be made the southern Ukraine. tireless role nurses play in to educate the public When she arrived, she health care. It begins on about what nurses do and found an overworked health care professionals May 6, National Nurses promote nursing as a pos- medical staff and a short are in enhancing our daily Day, and concludes on sible career choice. supply of medicine. lives. That is why I in- May 12, which is Florence A “National Nurse Hygiene was being ne- troduced H. Res. 644 to Nightingale’s birthday Week” was first observed glected, which led to mass support the ideals and (1820-1910). in 1954, on the 100th anni- infections and deaths. goals of National Nurses Her trailblazing work in versary of nursing pioneer She organized and im- Week,” said Johnson. nursing will be honored Nightingale’s mission to proved the nursing of the Why is nursing so im- during the week. treat wounded soldiers sick and wounded and portant? Nurses are on the This year, 2021, marks during the Crimean War. improved the cleanliness front lines of providing the 201st anniversary of Nightingale’s birthday of the area. quality health care, serv- her birthday. The year was later established as an She was greatly admired Shutterstock ing the public in a wide 2020 was called the Year annual “International for her far-sighted ideas range of roles and work of the Nurse and the Mid- Nurse Day” by the In- and her writings sparked paths. Now, nurses have Week on May 8, 2012. settings. They fulfill a wife, quite fitting due to ternational Council of worldwide health care many outstanding career “National Nurses Week critical role in the health- the global coronavirus Nurses (ICN) in 1974. reform. Inspired by her choices available to them is dedicated to acknowl- care system. crisis. actions, more young wom- during their nursing ca- edge the hard work, pa- In addition, as of 1998, The American Nurses Nursing founder en trained to become reers. tience, and service that May 8 has been designated Associated (ANA) has ex- Nightingale became a nurses. Texas congresswoman our nurses provide. As the as National Student Nurses tended the Year of the heroine during war — the Since that time, nursing Eddie Bernice Johnson first registered nurse in Day. Nurseinto 2021. Crimean War changed her has evolved into a profes- introduced legislation in Congress, I know first- — Contributor: Jan Burns Across the nation, nurs- life. In early 1854, she and sion with many different honor of National Nurses hand how important

Dedication from page H13 Kavitha Rajan, MSN, courageous. I wanted a career so I could be “When I was 12, I went to have a routine RN, TIRR Memorial like the health care professionals I admired,” camp physical,” she said. “The doctor discov- Another nomination about her reads: “Her Hermann Hospital Silva said. ered I had a malfunctioning heart valve, so humor makes her patients feel comfortable, “I love being a nurse. It is a job of much shortly thereafter, I underwent open-heart and whenever she is working with ECG leads, Kavitha Rajan’s father grew responsibility but also a lot of privilege. Nurses surgery at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin. after removing the leads, she always tells them up in a small village and was not only bring science, but also the art of “My family lived in Luling, and the com- they are getting ‘free waxing,’ or when she is from a lower caste in India’s making the patient feel better. Yes, it’s a diffi- mute was too difficult, so I spent quite a bit of caste system. Therefore, he KAVITHA cult job, but it is an amazing job.” my time in the hospital without my family, but taking her patients in wheelchairs to the park- RAJAN ing lot, she always tells them that their chariot encountered barriers to what One nomination stated: one of the night nurses at Brack made me feel awaits and their limo is here.” he wanted most: an educa- “Patricia is well-respected among her nurs- like I had a mother, especially when I was Her win for Top 15 really left her in shock. tion. ing colleagues, providers, directors, and staff. lonely…. After that experience, I never wanted “I was not expecting it and I am so blessed. “The caste pushed him back, but he was a She has proven to be a leader and clinical to be anything else but a nurse.” When they send surveys and I get good com- bright student and his teachers recognized this champion. Patricia has focused her time at After earning her credentials as an LVN at ments, it is so gratifying. It makes a big differ- and encouraged him. After he obtained the Kelsey-Seybold on developing her staff to Victoria College in Cuero, Wondra went to San ence because it’s not easy to take care of every- schooling available … he continued to empha- provide the highest quality of care to patients Jacinto College for training as an RN and then, one, but they come here for help and we try size education and learning whenever pos- — care that not only is seen face to face, but while she was employed as an RN, she enrolled our best,” she said. sible, but especially to his family. When he also transcends through all patient and staff in the RN to BSN at The University of Texas at married my mother, he sent her to nursing interaction.” Arlington. B BB school, where she became a midwife in their “My role changed a lot during COVID,” Silva “When the pandemic hit,” she said, “I was little village of Vellore. As a teen, I went with said. “In February and March, we established working in the cardiac cath lab, where we were Mom when she delivered babies. With her an Incident Command Center to prepare and only seeing emergency patients who had Carolyn Phillips, RN, instruction, I changed dressings for her pa- plan for impact of COVID on our patient pop- experienced a heart attack, so when they BSN, Ph.D. tients, and from both my parents I learned to ulation. We had no idea how many patients shifted staffing to busier areas, I was sent to UTMB School of be humble, kind and respect others. would need care and what level of care they ICU. That experience made me a more confi- Nursing “We went to convent school. After my would need, but we needed a starting point.” dent communicator.” graduation, my dad went to work, applying to As a coworker wrote, “Patricia has gone Because of limiting visitors, after a patient Ph.D. Program all professional courses — and I was accepted above and beyond. She was called on to devel- was admitted through the emergency room, CAROLYN Growing up on her family’s by several colleges, but they were too far from op a drive-through swabbing process for Kel- the family would sit in their cars. PHILLIPS farm in Illinois, Carolyn home. However, there was an excellent Chris- sey-Seybold patients, and she immediately The bridge between the patient and their Phillips’ parents served as tian medical college and hospital … not far accepted the challenge even though she was family members was the waiting room, where role models when it came to valuing education from our home. unfamiliar with the concept. staff would develop contacts and bring in- for their three daughters. Somehow Phillips “She then researched and studied various formation about the patient’s condition or has always known she wanted to be a nurse, different articles, organizations, and videos to progress for the family. perhaps from the humanity she learned from “As a teen, I went with Mom learn as much as she could quickly, to become “With a little ingenuity and some extra her mother and father or possibly from taking when she delivered babies. familiar with this new theory of swabbing on effort, we managed to come through it,” Won- part in the care of injured or sick animals on the go. dra said. the farm. … I changed dressings for her “Due to increasing demand, the Swab & Go During the pandemic, the cardiac cath lab After high school, she embarked on her patients, and from both my program quickly grew beyond main campus to staff lost a member, so Wondra volunteered to nursing career, her first stop at Decatur (Illi- nine additional clinic locations. Again, Patty fill in, often working back-to-back shifts. This nois) Macon County Hospital School of Nurs- parents I learned to be humble, stepped up and personally led the clinical duty of 24/7 cath lab call lasted six months and ing. Two years later, she had earned her Bach- kind and respect others.” training across the organization….” since her skills and presence were essential, elor of Science from Millikin University. She “Our mass swabbing sites, as an organiza- the hospital arranged for her to stay at a hotel. went on to earn her MSN at Wayne State Uni- Kavitha Rajan, TIRR Memorial Hermann Hospital tion, performed about 1,000 COVID tests per As one nomination read, “Karen comes in versity in Detroit, and her Ph.D. at the Univer- day,” Silva said, “and at the same time, make on her off time to assist the hospital. Karen is sity of Pittsburgh. sure people were safe … and in the fall (2020) always in a good mood and can make you For the past two decades, Phillips has been “My journey from there to now was a great we also offered tests for flu and strep.” laugh no matter how many hours or days she a member of the doctoral nursing faculty at experience, and because my folks believed a “The testing continued, non-stop, except for has worked. There is no UTMB, teaching core doctoral nursing courses parent’s job is to guide children.” the week-long storm in February, where we better qualified nurse to in qualitative research methods and data Before getting a job in the United States, had horrible weather, but by Friday night, we receive this award.” management; concepts and theories in nurs- Rajan was married in 2004. were swabbing again, which was important for Another nomination stat- ing; research methods; and critical analysis of Taking a job in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in symptomatic patients, and this testing was ed, “Karen has stepped up at nursing research. 2005, Rajan said the change in culture and her really necessary so doctors could treat the HMCL as the cath lab nurse. Phillips has been known to spend Saturdays inability to understand the dialect of the area COVID-positive patients,” Silva said. She has been the only nurse in her office guiding out-of-town doctoral tempted her to go back to India, but with the “She’s a good nurse — with strong decision in that department for students through data analysis and face-to-face help of her husband, she kept working, skills, attentive skills, a competent nurse lead- KAREN months. She takes call 24-7 on interviewing skills, and mentoring students in learned to drive a car, shop in an American er, adaptable, and has great stamina,” a co- WONDRA top of working her scheduled the art and science of manuscript writing for supermarket, kept trying and became accus- worker wrote. “Patty is a good problem-solver days. She is always in a good publication. tomed to the Wisconsin accent. and we rely on her knowledge and skills.” mood and positive toward the patients and As some of her students have stated, “Dr. After the 22-year nurse’s daughter was born, staff. I cannot think of a better nurse to nom- Phillips’ contributions as an exceptional teach- her parents traveled to Milwaukee for a two- B BB inate than her. She rocks!” er and mentor to doctoral students, the scien- month visit. During her six months of being on call, tific community, and society are immeasur- “It was winter — and snowing. My father Wondra said the cath lab staff “took care of able. She is dedicated to excellence in nursing asked me to use my computer to find ‘some- Karen Wondra, BSN, RN, CVRN me. I was sent home to rest so we were always scholarship and research. She not only sets the where warmer than Milwaukee.’ What came Houston Methodist Clear Lake doing the best for every patient and focused on bar high for her students during candidacy, up was Houston … and the rest, as they say, is Hospital getting the job done. It’s all about being pre- but she supports them in achieving their goals history. Memorial Hermann offered me a job Karen Wondra said she has never under- pared, not letting it psych you out. My su- of procuring relevant and trustworthy studies when I applied, and I have been here ever stood a half-empty glass. Perhaps that’s be- pervision in the lab and the whole team that can potentially impact health and health since,” she said. cause it appears her 38-year career path as an helped me. Even though I was the only RN, my care.” One nomination stated: “A team that works RN has been guided well. team — a mighty force — was behind me.” At the national level, Phillips has served as together succeeds together. Kavitha Rajan is co-investigator of the U.S. Department of the perfect role model for that to happen. She Education’s Fund for the Improvement of demonstrates competence appropriate to her Postsecondary Education, a project that sup- role and responsibilities, embraces true collab- ports the development of innovations that oration and then invests in its development. improve educational outcomes. “Kavitha mentors and serves as a role model At the community level, she has served as a for both clinical and non-clinical staff to collab- planning board member of the Congregational orate very well and achieve high scores in Health Nursing Training Project of the Institute customer satisfaction. Her team pays extra of Religion in the Texas Medical Center. attention, spends quality time with patients At the university level, as a faculty member who are anxious by spending time holding of the graduate school of biomedical sciences their hand, engage in active listening, and as well as the school of nursing, Phillips has shares with the team if a patient need should chaired task forces and serves on numerous be addressed.” committees. When asked about the Chronicle’s Top 15 Within the school of nursing, she is recog- honor, she is humble. nized as a leader and advocate for quality “Honestly, I feel so happy. I look at my doctoral nursing education. journey and the love I have for nursing. Even Her passion, commitment and dedication with the cultural challenges we’ve overcome, have not gone unrecognized. it’s been worth it,” she said. The Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences selected her as a recipient of its Excellence in B BB Ph.D. Teaching Award, Outstanding Teacher Award, and Distinguished Teaching Award in Nursing. Patricia Silva, RN, MS, CNE-BC The School of Nursing honored her with the Kelsey-Seybold Clinic — Dibrell Family Professorship in Medical Educa- Berthelsen Main Campus tion. A native Houstonian and a graduate of the As one of her nominations states, “Myself nursing program at the University of St. Thom- included, several of us already have our Ph.D., as, Patricia Silvia was licensed but during our doctoral studies during this in 1982, has been a nurse for very difficult time, Dr. Phillips demonstrated 39 years and is currently with humor, care, and kindness by asking about our Kelsey-Seybold Clinic — Ber- well-being, mental health … and ensuring we thelsen Main Campus. had every appropriate resource to help us “When I was selecting a while completing our dissertations.” career path, I had always seen B BB PATRICIA nurses as competent ad- SILVA vocates for their patients and Houston Chronicle | HoustonChronicle.com | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | H15

PRESENTEDBYHOUSTONMETHODIST

CELEBRATING TOP HOUSTONNURSES Brenda Stevens S Khairunnisa DenineMoody Carlette Patterson Madhani DianaLopez Alicia Howell CarolMarlow Diana Wilde Kimaura Garrett HeatherCollins Cassandra Duran CarolHolder Hilary Chandler KristenArriola KarlaAbela Debbie Barrera CarolLaMonica- PatriciaSilva Lilian Velasco KetreseWhite Way Linda Garcia MD Kimberly Sanchez ChristinaSassos MegO’Neal Shambra Exum Lisa Burns ConstanceIbe Nikki Richardson BeverlyGiraldi Lisa White S CristinaDimafiles Ofelia Canela ElizabethYale MariaMiller H CynthiaBetz Oksana Korotun Kim Littles Megan Wimbish Misgana Dave Calubaquib RayDeAnda Gebreselassie Shiow-Ru Shau MelissaCampbell David Gonzalez RodolfoCabrera UniquaSmith NancyBenson HISTUS Dawn Ellington Sali Clement Natashia Bush H DonnaTimmer M Samantha M Gabriel Garcia H Stevenson Nennan Harris Sister Theresa Girlie Rico H ShelbyGreengrass RhodaPhillips Kelleher KarenWondra Amanda Bergeron Shelby Lavicky RobinHaidacher KishaMitchell AnaCook Sheron Varghese Shelbi Hill N LaTashaBroussard Andrew Bueno SissyDibu Sherri Grant U MaureenLall Andy Tijerina Sophia Bailey TH StacyNigliazzo S Michelle Angela Lee Teresa Campbell Tina Knutson Antonopoulos H AristotleAbad Ugochi Imo Warren Boudreau Michelle Moreno- Chukwudi Ashley Jones Yvonne Camacho Lee T Ekwemalor BellaDelgado NancyJoGex ME O BreannaReed H Numa Qurbanali D H S Brianna Johnson Patricia Lewis MariaHalepovic Edward Donel CandaceMiller M Rebecca Moore T Kathleen Mozell Caroline Yanez ChandraWoka Rena Uro I Sheri Almeida Tynikka RoyAsuncion Catherine S Thibodeaux Giegerich Sandra Daw S Gina Sharman Catherine Price H Samantha M ChinhuiDavison T LindseyThompson Stevenson Lisa Valenzon DannyAlvarez H Carolyn Shannon Collins MariaOntoy T Schumacher StephenDavis DaphnyPeneza T Alicia Campbell Linda“Jenny” Thai Thanh Le DavidMushal H Usha Kizhakkedan Dena Baltimore UT H AartiPatel VanessaDunn KimAlleman M DoraBarrows Alva Mixon VenietaRawls GreggShoemaker AgnesKats Amanda Willis U VickiBrownewell Al Sillah Hilary Robago Amanda Byers T VivianDionisio Aldwin Bolongaita JamieMolina CrystalDunaway Annamma Jennifer Esparza Dana Reaves- CarolynPhillips Godines-Bolan H Jennifer Steenburg O’Neal GiselleLong Anna Thomas Noreen Agustin Kavitha Rajan Danielle Baker StacyFroebel

THANK YOUTOOUR SPONSORS RESENTED BY DIAMOND SPONSORP

SPONSORS H16 | Sunday, May 9, 2021 | HoustonChronicle.com | Houston Chronicle

WE SALUTE OUR NURSES. Congratulations to our Houston Methodist nurses who have been nominated forHouston’sTop 150 Nurses of the Year.

In recognition of our hardworking heroes during the coronavirus pandemic, we at Houston Methodist would like to thank our nurses, whose steadfast commitment to providing outstanding care in our community continues to inspire us all.

Our nurses have led the way as we work toward making our city healthy and vibrant again. Youtruly made adifference.

Congratulations, nurses, for your excellence in service to our community.

Michelle Cristina Dimafiles Agnes Kats Numa Qurbanali Antonopoulos Vivian Dionisio Usha Kizhakkedan Venieta Rawls Roy Asuncion Vanessa Dunn Maureen Lall Girlie Rico Cynthia Betz Dawn Ellington Carol LaMonica-Way Christina Sassos Aldwin Bolongaita Gabriel Garcia Thanh Le Al Sillah LaTasha Broussard Nancy Jo Gex Patricia Lewis Brenda Stevens VickiBrownewell AnaGodines-Bolan Carol Marlow Annamma Thomas Dave Calubaquib David Gonzalez Kisha Mitchell Donna Timmer Shannon Collins Carol Holder Rebecca Moore Rena Uro Stephen Davis Constance Ibe Carlette Patterson Karen Wondra Sandra Daw

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