Nurses Nominated for Excellence in Nursing Award

Hope Willis was named as peer-nominated award recipient

FARMINGTON, MAINE¾

 

On May 6 in coordination with national nurses’ day, nursing leaders and peers recognized seven Franklin Memorial Hospital (FMH) nurses as outstanding, by being nominated for the organization’s fourth annual Excellence in Nursing Award. The award was established to recognize contributions by FMH nurses that support the advancement of nursing.

 

Nominees included: Billie Jo Peterson, Emergency Department; Hope Willis, Med/Surg; Sharon Fournier, Franklin Health Orthopaedics; Barbara O’Reilly, Surgical Services; Kelly Alley, Martha B. Webber Breast Care Center; Jenny Fournier, Surgical Services; and Mary Sennott, Med/Surg.

 

“These nominated nurses have demonstrated exceptional nursing practice and professionalism while demonstrating our core values of pride, innovation, caring, and excellence,” said Rebecca Wood, FMH interim chief nursing officer. “The award we are presenting today recognizes all of these outstanding nurses−not just one−and their outstanding commitment to promoting optimal patient outcomes and a healthy work environment. All of our nominees are winners.”

 

Along with the nominees, Wood also recognized the individuals who took the time to nominate a nurse. They included: Nancy Walters, Roger Wells, Kellie Gats, Alice Vanderwerken, Kayla Allen, and Jessica Jewett.

 

At the conclusion of the awards ceremony, Hope Willis was named as the award recipient. Nominated by Nancy Walters, she said, “Hope is probably protesting that she is no more deserving of this award than any other. Her mild, unassuming nature and the fact that she does an outstanding job with no expectation of reward are part of her excellence. Hope’s pride in her work shows in many ways, not the least of which is her longtime commitment to the Medical Surgical Unit’s night shift. She takes time to learn new procedures completely, then shares her knowledge generously with others. She is a role model to all members of the floor team and she fosters a much needed sense of playfulness when appropriate. She strives to share credit with all members of the team and works hard to ease any idea that one role counts more than others.” 

 

Willis was also cited for her depth of nursing knowledge and being an excellent coach, preceptor, and resource for staff. For patients, she tirelessly listens to patients’ fears and concerns, advocates for their needs, and has a gift for putting patients and their families at ease.

 

Special recognition was also given to employees Joline Hart, vice president human resources, and Michael Senecal, NorthStar director, who were declared honorary nurses for the immeasurable support each has given to nursing staff.

 

Festivities prior to the award presentation included a social hour with refreshments and entertainment by Dr. Jay Naliboff.