Nursing Awards & Recognition

Dr. Danielle Sarik joins Betty Irene Moore Fellowship Program at UC Davis Nursing School

May 29, 2024 – Dr. Danielle Sarik joins Betty Irene Moore fellowship program at UC Davis nursing school. The prestigious fellowship program recognizes innovative nurse scientists.

2023 Nursing DAISY Award Winners

December 28, 2023 – The DAISY Award is a nationwide program that rewards excellence in nursing. It was created by The DAISY Foundation to recognize the clinical skills, extraordinary compassion and care exhibited by nurses everyday. The award is given monthly to an outstanding nurse in more than 237 hospitals across the United States. DAISY Award recipients personify Nicklaus Children's Hospital’s remarkable patient experience. These individuals consistently demonstrate excellence through clinical expertise, extraordinary service and compassionate care and are recognized as outstanding role models in the nursing community.

Virtual reality headset helps calm young patients at Nicklaus Children's Hospital

September 08, 2023 – For kids, the stress and anxiety leading up to a medical procedure is often worse than the procedure itself, but new technology at one local hospital has patients smiling through it all. A virtual reality headset called a "Smileyscope" is helping young patients at Nicklaus Children's Hospital keep calm.

Nicklaus Children's presentation wins 1st place award at ILCA

August 18, 2023 – Grecia Ferreyra MSN, RN, RNC-NIC, IBCLC presented at this year's International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) Conference. Her poster on Improving Relactation Rates for Mothers with Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was awarded first place. Congratulations on this achievement, Grecia!

Nurse Scholars Program Supports Nicklaus Children's Pipeline Approach to Hiring

July 10, 2023 – Nicklaus Children's Hospital is collaborating with Miami-Dade College (MDC) to offer a nurse scholarship program that provides financial assistance, while also supporting student engagement through supervised patient care experiences that can highlight the appeal and value of the nursing profession.

Nicklaus Children's Staff Present at the Nursing Consortium

June 27, 2023 – Several Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses presented at the Nursing Consortium of Florida, an educational conference that convenes leading and emerging nurse leaders from academic and practice settings.

The Nursing Consortium of Florida Recognizes Nicklaus Children's Nurses

June 27, 2023 – The Nursing Consortium of Florida recognizes the Heart Institute's Melissa Olen, MSN, FNP-C, CCRN and Telehealth NICU Nurse Melody M. Hernandez, PhD, MS, BSN, RN for their exceptional contributions to the nursing profession.

Congratulations to Recent UM grads!

June 26, 2023 – Congratulations to recent University of Miami nursing grads: Khaila Prather, BSPH, MPH, Research Analyst and Mayra Arana, BSN, MSN, Pediatric Surgery Nurse Practitioner. We see you leading the way and representing nursing and public health excellence!
Khaila and Mayra are also featured in the UM 30 under 30 list.

Nicklaus Children's Staff Present at FHA Quality Conference

June 22, 2023 – The first Florida Hospital Association (FHA) Quality Conference brings together quality improvement professionals, clinical leaders and other staff working to improve care for our patients and our communities. The theme, Improving Care Through Collaboration and Commitment, captures the great work that is being done in the state by FHA member hospitals and partners. Several of Nicklaus Children's staff presented on various topics a the conference.

Podcast on Baby Steps (HealthCetera)

May 17, 2023 – Dr. Danielle Sarik gives an in-depth interview on Baby Steps, a nurse-led telehealth support model that supports equitable access to the transition of care services for NICU patients and caregivers.

Shannon Odell, VP and Chief Nursing Officer, Appointed to The Nursing Consortium of Florida as a Board Member at Large

May 15, 2023 – Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Shannon Odell, MSN, RN, FACHE, NE-BC, RNC-OB, has been appointed to the Nursing Consortium of Florida as a Board Member at Large. Congratulations to Shannon on this extraordinary achievement!

Nicklaus Children's Baby Steps Program Wins Innovator Awards

March 17, 2023 – Nicklaus Children's Hospital leaders have been awarded fourth place at the Innovator Awards for the Baby Steps program, a program for infants cared for in the NICU to address gaps in care after discharge through a nurse-led telehealth program.

Linda Nylander-Housholder recognized by Greater Miami Chapter of AACN

February 15, 2023 – Linda has 40 years of nursing experience at Nicklaus Children's Hospital. She first started in 1980 as a pediatric ICU nurse and was one of the first ECMO and Apheresis specialists in Nicklaus. Linda currently works as an Advanced Care Educator. According to her, a great day at work is – “any day a kid gets to go home with their mom and dad.” Her advice to new nurses is to keep learning and not be afraid to ask as many questions as possible.

Nurse Scientists Help Hospital Nurses Learn How to do Research

February 07, 2023 – Nicklaus Children's Hospital Director of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Danielle Sarik, PhD, APRN, CPNP-PC is extensively quoted in this SmartBrief article which deep dives into the nurse scientist role. "It can be years between when research is conducted and published and when changes are implemented at the bedside, Sarik said. Having a nurse scientist as part of the hospital staff allows nurses to create studies, gather evidence and implement results quickly. “We’re changing practice in real time,” she said.

Neurocritical Care APP Leads Multistate Survey of Pediatric-Focused Hospital-Based Nurse Practitioners

February 02, 2023 – Tammy Trabosh, MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC/PC led and co-authored a recent article published by the Journal of Pediatric Healthcare, Career Choices and Experiences in Role Transition: A Multi-state Survey of Pediatric-focused Hospital-based Nurse Practitioners. In collaboration with 4 other APPs, the publication examines the factors influencing pediatric hospital APPs' career decisions and their transition to practice experiences.

Jackie Gonzalez Legacy Award: Solfia Torre

December 02, 2022 – Solfia Torre, BSN, RN, of the Dialysis Unit has been honored with the 2022 Jackie Gonzalez Legacy Award. We congratulate Solfia on this exceptional achievement! Thank you for all that you do for our patients and families.

Dr. Sarik receives FONL's Excellence in Nursing Research Award

November 21, 2022 – Congratulations to IPN committee member Danielle Altares Sarik PhD, APRN, CPNP-PC for receiving the Florida Organization for Nursing Leadership's award for Excellence in Nursing Research! The Institute of Pediatric Nursing and the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board are grateful that Dr. Sarik shares her expertise to strengthen the pediatric specialty!

Ana Tyrkala recognized by PerfectServe’s Nurses of Note awards program

October 26, 2022 – PerfectServe’s Nurses of Note awards program honors nurses who deserve recognition for their remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication. In the second year of the Nurses of Note program, PerfectServe wants to shine a light on the integrity, perseverance, and compassion that nurses so regularly display in the course of caring for patients.

Nicklaus Children’s completes new study revising Humpty Dumpty Fall Scale Tool

August 24, 2022 – Developed by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, the Humpty Dumpty Fall Scale tool is widely used to identify hospitalized children at risk of a fall. The tool, now updated, is anticipated to provide a safer pediatric environment for the hospitalized child.
Read full published article.

Pat Dean Helps with Passage of Seizures in Education Bill

March 22, 2022 – Patricia Dean, APRN, MSN, Epilepsy Program Specialist with the Epilepsy Center at Nicklaus Children’s and longtime collaborator with Epilepsy Florida, contributed to successful efforts to pass bills in both houses of the Florida legislature that will help keep children with epileptic seizures safer in the classroom. The bill is expected to become law effective July 2022.

Deborah Hill-Rodriguez accepted into AONL Fellowship

November 11, 2021 – Congratulations to Deborah Hill-Rodriguez, MSN, MBA-HMA, APRN, NE-BC, for being accepted into the AONL’s 2022 Fellowship class! Deborah, Director of Medical Surgical Services and the Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program ™ was commended for possessing the experience, attributes, and skills that will make her a valuable member of the 2022 Fellowship class and an able successor to future nursing leadership positions.

$20,000 West Coast University Award Supports Nursing Research

October 14, 2021 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital has received a $20,000 donation from West Coast University to support nursing research and scholarship activities.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Receives Grant to Fund Nursing-Led Provision of Advanced Care Services Via Telehealth

October 13, 2021 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is the recipient of a grant awarded by the Rita & Alex Hillman Foundation that will support the hospital in providing nursing-led advanced pediatric care services via telehealth to families in need.

Dr. Sarik Selected to Join as a Member of the Institute of Pediatric Nursing

July 14, 2021 – Congratulations to Dr. Danielle Sarik on been selected to join the Institute of Pediatric Nursing (IPN) as a Member. The IPN Committee selects nursing experts who have demonstrated success in the child health policy, advocacy, and community health arena. In her new role, Dr. Sarik will be supporting the IPN's mission and vision as well as advocating on behalf of our pediatric nurses and patients.

Dr. Sarik Selected as Fellow for the George Washington University Center for Health Policy and Media Engagement

June 17, 2021 – Congratulations to Dr. Danielle Sarik, Research Nurse Scientist at Nicklaus Children's Hospital for being selected as the 2021/2022 Fellow for the George Washington University Center for Health Policy and Media Engagement. Dr. Sarik's application stood out among a pool of applicants with a record of accomplishment in education, practice, leadership, or policy and a demonstrated interest in health policy.

Nurse inducted into the MDC Alumni Hall of Fame

June 08, 2021 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital would like to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Nurse Manager Sheila Coakley who will be inducted into the Miami Dade College Alumni Hall of Fame. Sheila is an inspiring leader who has managed the Dialysis Unit at Nicklaus Children’s through the pandemic. Under her leadership, the team demonstrated an unwavering dedication to children while ensuring safety

Nurses Awarded at the 11th Annual FNA South Region Symposium and Awards Ceremony

June 07, 2021 – Congratulations to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses recognized for nursing excellence at the 11^th Annual South Region Florida Nurses Association Award Ceremony and Symposium.

Oncology Nurse Participates in Multisite Pediatric Cancer Study

April 19, 2021 – Discharge education practices vary among institutions and lack a standardized approach for newly diagnosed pediatric oncology patients and their parents. Michelle Burke, MSN, APRN, CPON, BMTCN, represented Nicklaus Children's Hospital in this American Nurses Credentialing Center–supported pediatric multisite trial to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of 2 nurse-led Parent Education Discharge Support Strategies (PEDSS) for families with a child who is newly diagnosed with cancer.

Nicklaus Children's Cardiac Nurses Participate in Multicenter Study

April 08, 2021 – The Nicklaus Children's Hospital cardiac nursing team was honored to participate in this multicenter study with 26 other pediatric and cardiac intensive care units. The results of this study demonstrated that delirium is under-recognized in pediatric cardiac patients, and many Centers do not routinely screen for delirium. However, pediatric delirium has been associated with increased length of mechanical ventilation, hospital costs, and even mortality, and it is therefore important to recognize delirium in order to improve patient outcomes.

Nicklaus Children's Nurses Attend FNA Advocacy Days Program

March 23, 2021 – Tania Martinez, RN, MSN, FNP-BC, CPN and Carolina de Almagro, RN and participated in a priceless opportunity to meet fellow nurses and nurse leaders to learn and discuss about legislative policies in the nursing profession. Their participation was made possible through the Nurse's Charitable Trust.

Nurses Awarded at the 8th Annual FNA South Region Symposium and Awards Ceremony

May 02, 2018 – Congratulations to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses recognized for nursing excellence at the 8th Annual South Region Florida Nurses Association Award Ceremony and Symposium on April 14, 2018.

Nicklaus Children's Hospital Nurses Receive WOCNCB Certifications

March 06, 2018 – Congratulations to Stephanie Whitley, MSN, RN, CPN, NE-BC, CWOCN and Xoana Zampieri, BSN, RN, WCC, CPN, CWON on becoming Certified Wound, Ostomy, and Contienence Nurse (CWOCN®).

Jane Bragg announced HPNA President of Southeastern Florida Chapter

March 06, 2018 – Congratulations to Jane Bragg, MSN, ARNP, MBA, PMHNP-BC, CPON, NEA-BC on becoming President of Southeastern Florida Chapter of the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association (HPNA).

Xoana Zampieri receives APSNA Foster Wound, Ostomy and Continence Grant

May 15, 2017 – Congratulations to Xoana Zampieri, BSN, RN, WCC, CPN for being the recipient for the Foster Grant. The purpose of the Foster Wound, Ostomy and Continence (WOCN) Grant is to assist members of the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses Association (APSNA) to further their professional education and expertise in the area of wound and ostomy care.

Jackie Gonzalez, CNO, Honored as "Health Care Hero"

May 09, 2017 – Jackie Gonzalez, DN, MSN, ARNP, Senior Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital was recognized by the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce as a 2017 Health Care Hero in the nursing category. Dr. Gonzalez was honored for her leadership and commitment to patient safety, which gave rise to the hospital’s Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program, now in use in more than 1,300 hospitals around the globe.

Nurse Administrator Award presented to Jill Tahmooressi

September 28, 2015 – Jill Tahmooressi, MBA, BSN,RN-BC,NCSN has been a beacon of professionalism for young leaders. In September of 2015 she was awarded the Nurse Administrator Award.

Barry University Distinguished Alumni Award 2015

August 10, 2015 – Congratulations to Elena Ortega MSN, ARNP, CCRN for receiving the Barry University Distinguished Alumni Award at the 2015 Nursing commencement pinning ceremony.

Nurses Awarded at the 5th Annual FNA South Region Symposium and Awards Ceremony

April 20, 2015 – Congratulations to Jill Tahmooressi MBA, BSN, RN-BC, NCSN, Nursing Director Ambulatory Services, for her recognition as the Florida Nurses Association 2015 Nurse Administrator. Jill has also been elected and sworn in as the 2015-2017 Florida Nurses Association Secretary.

Intensive Care Units Awarded the Health Care Heroes® Award

July 30, 2014 – Congratulations to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital, formerly Miami Children's Hospital, Intensive Care Teams (CICU, NICU, and PICU) that received the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Health Care Heroes® Award.

Nicklaus Children's Urgent Care Center Team places 3rd in Poster Award: Evidence Based Best Practice

April 30, 2014 – Nicklaus Children's Urgent Care Center Team in their 3rd Place Poster Award: Evidence Based Best Practice, “Committed to the Beat. Reducing Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes” at the April 26th in Davie Florida South Region, Florida Nurses Association Symposium and Award Ceremony.

Nurses Awarded at the 4th Annual FNA South Region Symposium and Awards Ceremony

April 30, 2014 – Congratulations to the Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses recognized for nursing excellence at the 4th Annual Florida Nurses Association South Region Symposium & Awards Ceremony on April 26, 2014

‘Bing’ Wood Receives Regional Nursing Leadership Award

September 15, 2011 – Maria Lina "Bing" Wood, MSN, ARNP, Administrative Director of Critical Care at Miami Children's Hospital, is the recipient of the 2011 Leadership Award presented by the South Florida Organization of Nurse Executives.

Pat Dean Named 2008 ‘Hospital Hero of the Year’ by Florida Hospital Association

October 28, 2008 – Pat Dean, ARNP, MSN, Clinical Coordinator of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program at Miami Children’s Hospital, has been honored by the Florida Hospital Association as the 2008 “Hospital Hero of the Year.”

Pediatric Surgery Nurse Honored by APSNA

June 08, 2004 – Jeanette Diana, ARNP, pediatric surgery nurse practitioner at Miami Children's Hospital, received the “Founder’s Award” from the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses’ Association (APSNA) for her significant contribution to the care of pediatric surgical patients and her visionary leadership within the hospital and the community at large.

Three Miami Children's Hospital Nurses Honored by Regional Nursing Organization

May 26, 2004 – Miami Children’s Hospital’s Jackie Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, CNAA, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, Maria Fernandez, MSN, ARNP, LifeFlight® Program Director, and Natasha H. Melbourne, ARNP, MSN, Clinical Educator, received awards from the Florida Nursing Association District V.

Organization Awards

Nicklaus Children's Hospital Achieves Fifth Consecutive Magnet® Recognition

March 29, 2024 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital this month attained Magnet recognition by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program^® for the fifth consecutive term.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Earns 2023 Emergency Nurses Association Lantern Award 

July 31, 2023 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s Emergency Department has been selected as a recipient of the Emergency Nurses Association’s (ENA) 2023 Lantern Award for demonstrating exceptional innovation in leadership, practice, education, advocacy and research performance.

Nicklaus Children's Hospital Recognized for Excellence in Lactation Care

June 09, 2023 – The International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners^® (IBLCE^®) and International Lactation Consultant Association^® (ILCA^®) awarded Nicklaus Children’s Hospital with the IBCLC Care Award for excellence in lactation care.

Nicklaus Children's Health System Offers Scholarships for Students in Miami-Dade College's Associate of Science in Nursing Program

October 11, 2022 – Nicklaus Children’s is collaborating with Miami-Dade College (MDC) to implement a scholarship program for students accepted to MDC’s Associate of Science in Nursing Program. The Nurse Scholars Program, sponsored by Nicklaus Children’s Health System, is administered by Edcor, a third-party service, and features tuition scholarship awards of up to $10,000.

National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program Recognizes Nicklaus Children's Hospital

July 23, 2019 – Nicklaus Children's Hospital has been recognized as a Certified Safe Sleep Hospital by the National Safe Sleep Hospital Certification Program. The hospital is one of the first to receive this designation in Florida.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Achieves Fourth Consecutive Magnet® Recognition for Excellence in Nursing

January 10, 2019 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital has attained Magnet recognition by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet Recognition Program® for the fourth consecutive term. As of January 2019, Nicklaus Children’s is one of only six children’s hospitals in the nation that have received a fourth Magnet designation.

NCHS Participates in the Day in the Life of a Nurse Program

October 22, 2018 – This annual event provides high school students with an introduction to the world of nursing. Students and teachers learn about the many career opportunities available within the nursing profession.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Recognized for Excellence in Nursing with Nine Beacon Awards

June 15, 2018 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital has received three new Beacon Awards for Excellence from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), bringing to nine the total number of hospital units that have garnered Beacon Award status. Nicklaus Children’s is the only children’s hospital in the nation to be recognized with nine Beacon Awards, demonstrating the hospital’s commitment to excellence in inpatient care through use of evidence-based data to enhance outcomes and satisfaction.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Horizon Nurse Residency Program Earns Accreditation with Distinction from American Nurses Credentialing Center

February 07, 2018 – Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Horizon Nurse Residency Program has achieved accreditation with distinction from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Accreditation with Distinction is the highest recognition bestowed by the ANCC’s Commission on Accreditation. Nicklaus Children’s is the second children’s hospital in the nation to achieve this recognition.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Recognized for Excellence in Patient Care

December 28, 2017 – Nicklaus Children’s has more inpatient units recognized with Beacon Awards than any other children’s hospital in the nation.

American Association of Critical-Care Nurses Recognizes Nicklaus Children's Hospital's 3 East Unit with a Gold Beacon Award for Excellence

March 10, 2017 – The gold-level Beacon Award for Excellence signifies excellent and sustained unit performance and patient outcomes. 3 East earned a gold award by meeting the following evidence-based Beacon Award for Excellence criteria

All Three Nicklaus Children's Intensive Care Units Recognized with Gold Beacon Awards

May 10, 2016 – National three-year awards recognize exceptional patient care and a healthy work environment.

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Receives 2015 Press Ganey NDNQI Award for Outstanding Nursing Quality

January 20, 2016 – The award recognizes the top-performing pediatric hospital that has achieved excellence in overall performance in nursing quality indicators.

Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Receives Top Magnet Prize®

October 08, 2015 – Nicklaus Children's Hospital is recognized for the Humpty Dumpty Falls Prevention Program. The American Nurses Credentialing Center announces Nicklaus Children's Hospital as the winner of the ANCC 2015 Magnet Prize® sponsored by Cerner.

Miami Children's Recognized for Nursing Training

August 28, 2014 – Miami Children's Horizons Internship Program for Nurses has been recognized as a best practice program for nursing education by the Nursing Executive Center of The Advisory Board Company.

Miami Children's Hospital Receives Highest Nursing Credential with Prestigious Magnet Recognition...Again

December 20, 2013 – This is the third time MCH is recognized for excellence in nursing and it is the highest honor an organization can receive for professional nursing practice.

Intensive Care Units at Miami Children’s Hospital Receive Three Beacon Awards for Excellence

September 28, 2012 – MCH is one of only three children’s hospital in the nation to be awarded Gold and Silver Level Beacon Awards for all of their ICU’s and the only children’s hospital in Florida to receive this distinction.

Miami Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Recipient of Gold Beacon Award for Excellence

June 13, 2012 – The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit has received a gold Beacon award for excellence by the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. The Beacon award signifies exceptional care through improved outcomes and greater overall satisfaction.

Miami Children's Hospital Awarded Beacon Award for Critical Care Excellence

May 18, 2010 – Beacon Award units realize many benefits of having met rigid criteria for excellence, high-quality standards and exceptional care of patients and patients’ families.

Miami Children's Hospital Earns National Recognition for Nursing Excellence

May 14, 2008 – The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes excellence and professionalism in nursing. Only 3 percent of hospitals nationwide have achieved Magnet designation.

Miami Children’s Hospital Awarded Nursing ‘Magnet’ Site Honors

July 24, 2003 – Magnet designation recognizes the MCH nursing staff for meeting the rigorous quality indicators and standards of nursing practice as defined by the American Nurses Association’s Scope and Standards for Nurse Administrators.

Nursing Awards Archive

Awards received by Miami Children's Hospital Nursing department and outstanding nurses.

2013 Nursing Awards

FIU 30th Anniversary Gala

Congratulations to Jo Ann Nieves, MSN, ARNP, PNP-BC, CPN, for her recognition at the Florida International University (FIU) 30th Anniversary Gala. Jo Ann received the 2013 Outstanding Achievement Award, Honorable Mention Nicole Wertheim College of Nursing & Health Sciences (Florida International University College of Nursing).

FNA Membership Assembly Great 100 Awards

Congratulations to Laura M. Hernandez , MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, CPN. She has been selected as a recipient of the Great 100 Awards by the FNA Membership Assembly.

2011 Nursing Awards

Miami Children's Hospital, March Of Dimes 2011 Miami-Dade and Monroe nurse of the year Finalists and Winners.

Annalyn Velasquez, ARNP, MSN, CPNP, CCRN, won the Critical Care/Surgical Services category
Raquel Pasaron, ARNP, DNP, FNP-BC won in the category of advanced practice.

Miami Children's Hospital Finalists

Advance Practice

Cindy M.Ayala, RN, MSN, CPN
Patricia Dean, ARNP, MSN
Jo Ann Nieves, MSN, CPN, ARNP, PNP-BC, FAHA
Elena Ortega, ARNP, MSN, CCRN
Raquel Pasaron, ARNNP, DNP, FNNP-BC

Case Management/Care Coordination/Managed Care

Maytee Perdomo, RNN, AS
Clinical & Academic Education
Laura Hernandez, ARNP, MSN, CPN, FNP-C
Janice Serrano, RN, BSN

Critical Care/Surgical Services

Lorna Allen, RN, BSN
Holda Delavoe, RN
Melinda Duran, RN, BSN
Claudia Martin-Shimizu, RN, BSN ,CNOR
Miriam Prado, RN
Annalyn Velasquez, ARNP, MSN, CPNP, CCRN

Emergency/Trauma

Holly Olsen-Aloi, RN, BSN

Leadership-Executive

Jane Bragg, RN, MSN,MBA
Mirtha Gonzalez, ARNP,MSN

Leadership-Managers

Diana Garcia, RN, MSN
Flor Tena, RN, MSN

Pediatric/Adolescent Health

Erica Pardo, RN, MSN

Miami Children's Patricia Dean to Receive American Epilepsy Society’s 2011 J. Kiffin Penry Award

The American Epilepsy Society (AES) has announced that Patricia Dean, ARNP, MSN, a pediatric nurse practitioner and Clinical Coordinator of the Comprehensive Epilepsy Program at Nicklaus Children's Hospital, formerly Miami Children's Hospital, has been named recipient of this year’s J. Kiffin Penry Excellence in Epilepsy Care Award. Jackie Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Senior Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer, Was inducted on November 4th as President -Elect 2012 of Florida Organization of Nurse Executives (FONE).Congratulations!

Florida Nurses Association State Award

FNA, Nursing Administrator of the Year, Jackie Gonzalez, MSN, ARNP-Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer
FNA, Nurse Practitioner of the Year, Raquel Pasarón, DNP, ARNP, FNP-BC

Florida Nurses Association South Region Symposium and Awards Ceremony held on Saturday, April 16, 2011.

Laura Hernandez: Nurse Educator Award—Winner
Diana Garcia: Nursing Administration Award—Winner
Raquel Pasarón: Advanced Practice Nursing Award—Finalist
Nicklaus Children's Hospital Nursing Team (Jackie Gonzalez)--Community Action Award—Finalist
Nicklaus Children's Hospital NICU Nursing Team--Promotion of Excellence Award—Winner

Society for Pediatric Nursing 2011 National Conference in Las Vegas, NV -- Maria Soto, MSN, ARNP, Carmen Duque, MSN, ARNP, Dr. Simpser/2nd place (Clinical Practice Award) - “Caring for the Ventilator Dependent Pediatric Patient in a Medical Surgical Unit” (Poster).

JoAnn Nieves, MSN, ARNP, PNP-BC-on April 30, 2011, was elected as a Fellow of the American Heart Association by the leadership committee of the Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young.

2011 Nurse of the Year Winners

RN of the Year: LifeFlight: Kenneth Patino, BSN, RN, CPN
LPN of the year: Andres Valencia, LPN
Rookie of the year: Emergency Department: Lizette Rivera, BSN, RN, CPN
Leader of the year: IV team and Dialysis: Solfia Torre, BSN, RN, CDN
Nursing support staff of the year: 2 East- Evangeline Juggan, CA
Scholar of the year: CICU-Jacqueline Whyte, BSN, RN, CPN
Professional Services of the Year: 3 South-Patricia Dean, MSN, ARNP, PNP

Unit base winners:

2E: Chau Nguyen, BSN, RN
2NE: Andrea Downs, RN
3N: Annette Caravia, MSN, RN, CPN
3E: Inga Bolanos, BSN, RN, CPN
3S: Karen Ricketts, RN, CPN
2N: Cristina Meca, BSN, RN, CPN
Same Day Surgery: Jannette Martinez, BSN, RN, CPN
CICU: Shannon Hutcherson, BSN, RN
ED/Rapid Care: Carolyn Ramirez, BSN, RN, CPEN
NICU: Miriam Prado, RN
OR: Jessica Jameson, BSN, RN
PICU: Christina Forcine, MSN, RN, CCRN, CPN
Psychiatry: Shirley Kendzora, RN, MSN, APRN-BC
PACU: Bill Gehring, RN
MRI/Radiology: Amy Hollifield, BSN, RN
UCC: Verna Haik, BSN, RN, CPN
Minor Procedure Suites: Marlene Marquez, RN
Pediatric Care Center: Diane Litchman, RN, CPN
3NE:Arnold Jumagbas, BSN, RN
IV Team: Alicia Lue, RN, VA-BC
Dialysis: Vanessa Polumbarit, BSN, RN

2010 Nursing Awards

Individual Nurse Awards

RN of the year: 3 Northeast: Rosanne Wills, RN, BSN, CPN
LPN of the year: 3 South: Lizette Garcia, LPN
Rookie of the year: 2 North: Cristina Milian, RN, BSN
Leader of the year: Emergency: Susan Churchill, RN, CPN- Manager
Nursing support staff of the year: PCC- Judith Bello, CA
Scholar of the year: OR Support Staff- Raquel Pasaron, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC

Unit base winners:

2E: Anja Thumm, RN
2NE: Ann Lisa Marasigna, RN, BSN
3N: Jacqueline Arocho, RN, BSN, CPN
3E: Lizel Dagum, RN, BSN
3S: Leidy Dominguez, RN
2N: Michele Moreno, RN, BSN
Same Day Surgery: Giselle Menendez, RN, BSN
CICU: Melissa Vidaechea, RN, MSN, PNP-BC
ED/Rapid Care: Abel Guerrero, RN, CPEN
Float/Staff Relief: Mayi Ramirez, RN, BSN, CPN
NICU: Maryanne Pridgen, RN
OR: Rubin Reinis, RN, BSN
PICU: Sourrette Joseph, RN, CPN
Psychiatry: Shirley Kendroza, RN, MSN, APRN-BC
Quality Resources: Mary Blackburn, RN, CPUM
PACU: Saadia Cendeno, RN, BSN
MRI/Radiology: Lizette Gorelick, RN, BSN
UCC-Palmetto Bay- Kathleen Williams-Atkinson, RN
LifeFlight: Holly Olsen, RN, BSN, CCRN
Minor Procedure Suites: Lisa Moose, RN, BSN
Pediatric Care Center: Teresa Mackenzie, RN, BSN, CPN

American Pediatric Surgical Nurses' Association (APSNA) scholarship grant

Raquel Pasaron, MSN, ARNP, FNP-BC, was awarded the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses' Association (APSNA) scholarship grant at the 19th Annual APSNA Scientific Meeting (May 13-16, ).

DAISY Award Winners

2009 Nursing Awards

Susan Churchill, RN, BSN, CPN- Nominee 2009 South Florida Organization of Nurse Executives (SFONE) Leadership Award.
Candace Pineda, RN, BSN, CPN- Nominee 2009 South Florida Organization of Nurse Executives (SFONE) Leadership Award.
Nikole Sanchez- Rubiera, RN, MSN, MBA- Nominee 2009 South Florida Organization of Nurse Executives (SFONE) Leadership Award.
Elizabeth Padilla, RN, BSN, CPN- Finalist 2009 Nursing Spectrum Excellence Awards, Customer Service
Sarah Taylor, RN, BSN, CPON- Finalist 2009 Nursing Spectrum Excellence Awards, Management
Alison Scheflow, RN, MA, BSN, CCRN- Finalist 2009 Nursing Spectrum Excellence Awards, Clinical Care
PICU Staff - 2009 Best in Collaboration, Advance for Nurses

2009 Nurse of the Year Winners

RN of the year: 3 South: Carolina Ferraz, RN
LPN of the year: ER: Michelle Perez, LPN
Rookie of the year: 3NE: Cristina Suarez, RN
Leader of the year: LifeFlight: Juliette Edwards, RN
Nursing support staff of the year: 3 East: Dalva Ferraz, CA
Scholar of the year: Director of Hematology/Oncology: Debbie Del- Favero MSN/ED, CPN, NE-BC

Unit base winners

LifeFlight: Joann Dennis, RN
NICU: Gayle O’Donnell RN
CV: Diana Arias, RN
Same Day Surgery: Jennifer Stringer, RN
PACU: Susan Goldstein, RN
OR: Danny Monroe, RN
ER: Donald Torres, RN
PICU: Melinda Duran, RN
Radiology: Raquel Morales, RN
3S: Carolina Ferraz, RN
3E: Nancy Breen, RN
3NE: Jocelyn Reyes, RN
3N: Michelle Bursztein, RN
Psych: Yoely Hernandez, RN
2E: Stephanie Whitley, RN
Patient access: Grisel Cepeda, RN
2NE: Stefania Sarno, RN
2N: Ana Perez, RN
Ancillary: Meiling Marenco

DAISY Award Winners

2009 Nursing Awards

Patricia Dean, MSN, ARNP, PNP-BC- 2008 Hospital Hero of the Year from the Florida Hospital Association (FHA).
Deborah Del-Favero, MSN, RN, NE-BC, CPN- Nominee 2008 South Florida Organization of Nurse Executives (SFONE) Leadership Award.
Jackie Gonzalez, MSN, ARNP, NEA-BC, FAAN- 2008 Alumni of Distinction Award, University of Miami
Evelyn Gonzalez-Morlate, RN-BC, MSN- 2008 Professional Advocate, Advance for Nurses

2008 Nurse of the Year Winners

RN of the year: CICU: Emily Zubira, RN, BSN
LPN of the year: MRI: Teresa Sanchez, LPN, (now RN)
Rookie of the year: PICU: Janice Serrano, RN, BSN
Leader of the year: PICU: Pat Thorpe, RN, BSN
Nursing support staff of the year: 3 Northeast: Reyna Amador, CA
Research Award Winner: Joanne Nieves, MSN, ARNP, PNP, CPN
Evidence Based Practice Award: Alison Scheflow, RN, BSN, CCRN

Unit Winners

2E: Rochelle Gabas, RN, BSN
2NE: Monica Brown, RN, MSN, CPN
3N: Tracee Smith, RN, BSN
3NE: Adam Fader, RN, BSN
3S: Claudia Alfonso, RN
Same Day Surgery: Irene Bowers, RN
3E: Vivian Gimon, RN, CPN
ED/Rapid Care: David Pastor, RN, BSN, CPN
Float/Staff Relief: Lisa Morgan, RN, MSN
NICU: Viviana Gonzalez, RN, BSN
OR: Enio Ortega, RN, BSN
PICU: Sandra Wiley, RN, BSN
Psychiatry: Nova Franklin-Bremmer, RN
Quality Resources: Charity Zayas, RN
PACU: Maria Morales-Ojeda, RN
MRI/Radiology: Margot Sarratea, RN, CPN
South Dade Center: Carmen Rodriguez, RN, BSN, CPN
Support Department: Jane Salvaggio, ARNP, MSN
IV Team: Alicia Lue, RN
Pediatric Care Center: DeDe Lichtman, RN, BSN
Afterhours: Monica Hawkins, RN, BSN

2007 Nursing Awards

Dottie Thomas, RN, BSN, CIC - Miami Dade Health Care Hero Award Recipient
Jeanette Diana, MSN, ARNP - Sigma Theta Tau, Beta Tau Chapter- Leadership Award
Deborah Hill-Rodriguez, MSN, ARNP, CS-BC - Florida Nurses Association District V- Promoting an Environment for Excellence of Nursing Practice
Michelle Burke, MSN, ARNP, CPN, CPON - 2007 Jean Fergusson Excellence in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nursing Education Award, American Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurses Association
Maria Fernandez, MSN, ARNP, MBA, CFRN – 2007 Florida Flight Nurses Association Transport Nurse of the Year
Jill Tahmooressi, RN-BC, MBA - 2007 Nursing Spectrum Nursing Excellence Awards for the Florida region, finalist in the category of Advancing and Leading the Profession
Jean Buckley, RN - 2007 Nursing Spectrum Nursing Excellence Awards for the Florida region, finalist in the category of Community Participation

2007 Nurse of the Year Winners

RN of the year: 3East: Johnny Mok, RN
LPN of the year: 3South: Lizette Garcia, LPN
Rookie of the year: 3Northeast: Liane Franquiz, RN
Leader of the year: CICU: Ingrid Gonzalez, MSN, RN, CPN
Nursing support staff of the year: Psychiatry: Saskia Izaquirre, BHT
Research Award Winner: Carolyn Domina, ARNP, MSN, NE-BC, CORN & Carol Roach, RN, MSN, CPN

Unit Winners

2E: Ana Arrubla, RN, BSN
2NE: Marocon Villnueava, RN, BSN
3N: Sylvia Perez, RN, BSN
3NE: Jean Buckley, RN
3S: Beatriz Milian, RN, BSN
Same Day Surgery: Ana Ruiz, RN, BSN
CICU: Susan Flores, RN, BSN, CPN
ED/Rapid Care: Susana Sanchez, RN
Float/Staff Relief: Elizabeth Padilla, RN, BSN, CPN
NICU: Janet Madill, RN
OR: Karen Witsken, RN
PICU: Vivian Lacandalo, RN, BSN
Psychiatry: Shirley Kendroza, RN, MSN, APRN-BC
Quality Resources: Grisel Cepeda, RN
PACU: William Gehring, RN
MRI/Radiology: Veronica Rivera, RN, CPN
South Dade Center: Verna Haik, RN, CPN
Support Department: Cindy Garlesky, ARNP, MSN, CEN, RN-BC

2006 Nursing Awards

The Wonder of a Nurse - 2006 Miami Children's Hospital, Nursing Essay
Winner: Sara Turpel, RN, MSN, CCRN

Cheryl Minnick, BSN, RN, Bing Wood, ARNP, MSN, Deborah Hill-Rodriguez, MSN, ARNP, CS,BC, Patricia Messmer, PhD, RN, BC, FAAN, Maryann Henry, RN, Dania Vasquez, ARNP, MSN, and Deborah Salani, MSN, ARNP,BC, CPON - Won the 1st place for the poster "Implementing the Humpty Dumpty Falls Assessment Program" at Fifth Annual 2006 Summer Institute on Evidence-Based Practice Quality Improvement, Quality Indicators in San Antonio, Texas.

Deborah Hill-Rodriguez, MSN, ARNP, CS,BC, Patricia Messmer, PhD, RN, BC, FAAN, Jill Tahmooressi, RN,C, MBA - Research Poster Award for “Pediatric Nurses’ Perception of National Certification”. Society of Pediatric Nursing 16th Annual Convention, Orlando, Florida.

Sofia Morales, MSN, ARNP, CPN- Poster titled "Italian Connection: Nursing Care Across Cultures" won best poster at the 22nd Annual Pediatric Nursing Conference in Dallas, Texas.

Julissa, Jimenez, ARNP, MSN a nurse on the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit was selected to present her exemplar, "A Transcultural Experience with Kosovo Mothers and their Children Diagnosed with Congenital Heart Disease" at the 2006 Florida Nurses Association 19th Annual Ingeborg Mauksch Clinical Excellence Conference February 17, 2006 in Fort Myers, Florida.

Department Awards

The Emergency Department was named one of four "Best Teams" by Advance for Nurses for Achievement in Emergency/Trauma Care.

Individual Nurse Awards:

2E – Lilly Alexander
2NE – April Anderson
3E – Nubia Albites
3NE – Karen Murray
3N – Sarah Taylor
3S – MaJomela Nagal

After Hours – Teresita Febre
Ambulatory – Jennifer Gamad
CICU – Thomas Flock
ER/OP/Rapid Care – Lisette Gorelick
Float/SR – Bonnie Flagley
IV Team – Irma Vergara
NICU – Heather Leidich
OR – Christopher Wolary
PICU – Isoldy Augusten
Psych – Shirley Kendzora
Quality/UR – Griselle Angulo
Recovery Room – Lilia Alonso
South Dade – Kathleen Atkinson
Support Staff – Lourdes Lam

Rookie of the Year – Geeta Singh
LPN of the Year – Lissette Morales
Mentor of the Year – Joann Wiacek-Krupin
Nursing Support Staff of the Year – Ainsley Bryan, Behavioral Health Tech – Psychiatry

2005 Nursing Awards

2005 Nurse Awards

Jackie Gonzalez Selected as Fellow of American Academy of Nursing

Jackie Gonzalez received recognition from Barry University School of Nursing (pictured with Dean Pegge Bell & Thomas Rozek) for Community Leader Tribute on February 19th, 2005 at the Conrad Hotel, Miami.

July 11, 2005 - Jackie Gonzalez, MSN, ARNP, Senior Vice President/Chief Nursing Officer has been named as a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). Fellows are selected by their peers for outstanding contributions to the Nursing profession and healthcare.

The criteria for selection of Fellows requires evidence of outstanding and broad contributions to Nursing and healthcare as well as evidence of strong potential for continuing influence in practice and health policy aimed at improving the health of the American people.

Jackie is a devoted and inspiring leader who has instilled a passion for excellence and innovation within the nursing team at Nicklaus Children's. Her selection as a Fellow of AAN is a tribute to her leadership here at the hospital as well as her commitment to the profession of Nursing on a regional and national level. All of us at Nicklaus Children's are enormously proud of her many achievements.

Seven FNA District V awards were awarded to Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses at the FNA District V luncheon on Saturday, April 30, 2005:

Jane Bragg, RN, MSN, MBA,CPON, CNAA,BC Director of Psychiatry and Hematology-Oncology received the FNA District V Nurse Administrator Award
Lisa Burton, ARNP-BC, MSN, ARNP for Psychiatry received the FNA District V Advanced Practice
Carolyn Domina, ARNP, MSN, CNA, BC, Director of Operating Room received the FNA District V Community Award
Patricia R. Messmer, PhD, RN,BC, FAAN Nurse Researcher and Chair of the Nurses Charitable Trust, District V, FNA on behalf of the trust received the FNA District V Special Recognition Award
Kris Roberts, MSN, RN,CPN, Nurse Manager 2E, received the FNA District V Nursing Student Liaison Award
Dottie Thomas, RN, BSN, CIC Infection Control Nurse was one of the 6 national finalists for the Sharps Injury Prevention Award.
Dania Vasquez, ARNP, MSN, CNS 3 East/3South received the FNA District V Nursing Student Liaison Award

Individual Nurses Awards

Nursing Profession: One Profession, Many Roles
2005 Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Nursing Essay Winner: Lisa Capezzuto, RN, 3 South
Jane Bragg, RN, MSN, MBA,CPON, CNAA,BC Director of Psychiatry and Hematology-Oncology received the FNA Nurse Administrator Award in Bonita Springs, FL September, 16, 2005
Connie Fishman, BSN, RN was a finalist for Nursing Spectrum of the Year award (one of 5 selected from 48 nurses statewide)
Miami Children's Hospital, Nurses received Certificates of Recognition from PNCB for the Pursuit of Excellence by their Certified Pediatric Nurses.
Patricia Messmer, PhD, RN, CBC, FAAN, was recently honored by the University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing for being a 2005 Distinguished Alumni Awardee. She was recognized at a ceremony along with 2 of her peers. For more information, please visit the University of Pittsburgh website.
2005 Nicklaus Children's Hospital Nurse Excellence of the Year Award: Carol Cupido-Hylton, RN - NICU
2005 Nursing Leadership Award Winner: Connie Fischman, RN

Department & Unit Awards

Laura Chechila, RN - 2 East
Holda Delavoe, RN - PICU
Anna Diaz, RN - 3 North
Cathy Donellan, RN - Utilization Quality Management
Karin Espinosa, RN - PACU
Cynthia Etter, RN - IV Team
Roxanna Gomez, RN - After Hours
Denise Jorge, RN - CV
Helene Liwanag, RN - Radiology
Marcina Maraj, RN - 3 South
Kelli Ann L. McIntosh - 3 NorthEast
Flor Olivera, RN - Psych.
Elizabeth Padilla, RN - Float/Staff Relief
Larry Regalado, RN - Emergency Room
Kim Ronselli, RN - Operating Room
Heidi Story, RN - Ambulatory Surgery
Vanessa Tamariz, RN - 3 East
Carla Trueba, RN - CVICU

2004 Nursing Awards

Nicklaus Children's Nursing Department was featured in an article, "The Magnet Pull", in the April, 2004 issue of Nursing Management. p. 63-66.

Three FNA District V awards were awarded to Nicklaus Children's Hospital nurses at the Florida League for Nursing & FNA District V luncheon on April 17, 2004:

Jacqueline Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, CNAA, BC - Nurse Administrator
Maria Fernandez, ARNP, MSN, CMTE - Advanced Practice
Natasha Melbourne, ARNP, MSN - Student Liaison

Individual Nurse Awards

Patricia R. Messmer, PhD, RN, BC, FAAN, nurse researcher, received the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certified Nurse Award at the American Nurses Association (ANA) Convention in Minneapolis, MN on Saturday, June 26, 2004.
Lisa Juskowitz, RN, CPN, Ambulatory Surgery received "Honorable Mention" Nursing Spectrum of the Year award (one of 5 selected from 48 nurses throughout state of Florida).
Jeannette Diana, ARNP, MSN, pediatric surgery nurse practitioner, received the "Founder's Award" from the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses' Association (APSNA) 13th Annual Scientific Conference Presentation May 25, 2004, in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. The award is presented to a nurse who has made a significant contribution to the care of pediatric surgical patients and provided leadership within the hospital and the community at large.
2004 Nicklaus Children's Hospital Nurse Excellence of the Year Award: Blanca Callejas - 3 East
2004 Nursing Leadership Award Winner: Suzy Prieto - 3 East
2004 Licensed Support Services Award Winner: Karen Niblack, LPN - Emergency Department

Unit Nurse Excellence Award Winners

Kelly Bronkan - Ambulatory Surgery
Grisel Cepeda - Utilization Quality Management
Frances Crawford - 3NE
Nicole Dixon - 2 East
Raiza Figueredo - 3 South
Geraldine Florian - 3 North
Yulie Giralt - Operating Room
Susan Golzbein - PACU
Maytee Gonzalez - 2NE
Julissa Jimenez - Cardiac Care Unit
Jennifer McCartney - PICU
Beverly Newlin - Psychiatry
Barbie Rivera - Emergency Department
Nikole Sanchez - Float Pool
Margot Sarratea - GI Lab
Sonia Tezini - After Hours
Sarah Tyner - NICU

2003 Nursing Awards

Department Awards

Communication Media, Florida Nurses Association Award, 2003.
Promoting Environment for Excellence in Nursing Practice, Florida Nurses Association Award, 2003.
Promoting Environment for Excellence in Nursing Practice, Florida Nurses Association Award, (Dade County, District V), 2003.
Caritas Award for Outstanding Contributions to the School of Nursing, Barry University, 2003.

Individual Nurse Awards

Lisa Juskowitz, RN, Staff Nurse, PACU, Nurse of the Year, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, formerly Miami Children's Hospital, 2003.
Jackie L. Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, CNAA received Florida International University (FIU) Pediatric Nursing Initiative Award, March 11, 2003.
JoAnn Nieves, MSN, ARNP, CPN, APRN-BC was appointed as an item writer to the Certified Pediatric Nurses (NCBNPN) exam.
Maria Lina (Bing) Wood, Director of PICU, Staffing & ECLS, Cheryl Topps, ARNP, MSN, Nursing Information Specialist, and Jackie L. Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, CNAA, VP & Chief Nursing Officer, received first place for a poster presentation entitled: Implementation of Scan for Safety Bar-coding Technology, NACHRI (National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions) Annual Meeting, 2003.
Jackie L. Gonzalez, ARNP, MSN, CNAA, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer Inducted into the Nicklaus Children's Hospital Hall of Excellence, 2003.
Pat Dean, MSN, ARNP, honored by The Epilepsy Foundation of South Florida as an outstanding volunteer, 2003.
Dottie Thomas, RN, Community Action Award, Florida Nursing Association, 2003.
Jill Tahmooressi, RN, Nursing Student Liaison Award, Florida Nursing Association, 2003.