In celebration of National Nurses Week, we are honoring each and every nomination in the Salute to Nursing Professionals program. Be sure to scroll through to see a glimpse into how each of these tireless professionals impacted coworkers, patients and families.
This program is supported by presenting sponsorÌý, title sponsorÌýÌýand supporting sponsorsÌýÌýandÌý.
Nursing Professionals: H-L
Meghan Harenda
Mercy Behavioral HealthÌý
Meghan has been a nurse for over 15 years and has shown limitless dedication to the profession. She excels in patient care and goes above and beyond every day for the patients in her care. She reminds me to always lead with compassion and to never give up — there is always hope.
Lorraine Harris
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Lorraine is dedicated, detail-oriented and works long hours.
Jocelyn Hawthorne
St. Luke's Hospital
Jocelyn truly embodies what it means to be a great nurse. She goes above and beyond for her patients, treating them — and their families — as if they were part of her own. She is still in contact with some of her very first patients and families. In addition to her exceptional patient care, Jocelyn is committed to personal and professional growth. She is currently returning to school to further her education and advance in her profession, demonstrating her dedication to continually improving her skills to better serve her patients.
Teri Herrell
Buder Elementary
Teri is great!
Teri works hard both as a school nurse and as a nurse for the sports teams. She is a single mom to a high schooler and is finishing her BSN. She deserves a pat on the back for all that she does.
Jessica Hinds
Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital
Jessica recently was my pre- and postoperative surgical nurse. She has a wonderful bedside manner and truly cares about her patients. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting with her and learning more about her. She gave us her complete attention.
Maddy Hodges
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
Maddy was my daughter’s nurse when she went into labor prematurely. She stayed with her almost nonstop throughout her entire 12-hour shift, adjusting monitors and checking blood sugars. She made sure my daughter’s baby was doing well and encouraged her. She held her hand when labor started progressing and my daughter became scared. She explained everything to us when we were confused and anxious. Maddy helped my daughter through her fear, coached her through the delivery and did everything she could to ensure my daughter could visit the NICU to see her son after he was born. Her compassion was immense and her smile kept us calm amidst the chaos. She is truly amazing!
Maddy was my labor and delivery nurse for my second C-section. She made the entire experience comfortable from the moment I checked in until I was moved to the postpartum floor. She held my hand during the dreaded spinal, continuously reassuring me that I was doing great and reminding me to breathe. Even after the C-section, she made a point to come by and let me know that everything looked great with both me and my beautiful baby girl. She even stopped by to check in when my little one was sent to the NICU. Maddy went above and beyond and it’s clear that she loves her patients and the work she does. She was truly one of the best nurses I’ve ever had!
April Huff
Mercy Hospital Jefferson
It’s been almost two years since my first hospitalization at Mercy Hospital Jefferson, where April was the nurse on my floor. She took excellent care of me and was a true advocate for my well-being. When I had concerns about a couple of things, I brought them to the doctor and April followed through to make sure my wishes were addressed. I’ve returned since just to say hi and thank her for all she did. That year was extremely challenging. It may sound unusual, but I think of April at least once a week and remember how kind and amazing she was. We need more nurses like her — those with empathy, compassion and a commitment to being a patient advocate.
Jillian Inman
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital
Jillian goes above and beyond caring for her patients.
Brett Ives
Missouri Baptist Medical Center
Brett works hard every day to help his patients and coworkers be their healthiest and best selves. He is a joy to be around and one of the most dedicated and hardworking people I know.
Jenny Jones
Mercy Hospital ×îÐÂÐÓ°ÉÔ´´
Jenny is an oncology nurse with a remarkable ability to make patients feel supported and cared for during a vulnerable time. In addition to her clinical work, she volunteers as a health occupations instructor at a local high school, dedicating many hours to inspiring and preparing students for careers in healthcare. Her commitment is infectious and she ignites excitement in the next generation. She deserves recognition for both her dedication to oncology patients and her passion for education.
Ella Jordan
Mother of Good Counsel Home
Ella is the most compassionate nurse I have met. She consistently goes the extra mile to support her patients and exemplifies dignity, respect, compassion and leadership in the nursing profession.
Samantha Key
SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital
Samantha’s heart is always dedicated to serving her patients. She is always ready to improve the lives of her patients and their families, no matter the challenges they face. She is truly a rockstar.
Valeda Keys
Valeda's Hope
Valeda is a nurse who goes above and beyond for women diagnosed with breast cancer.
Kayla Knott
St. Luke's Hospital
Kayla is the tireless leader of the cardiovascular intensive care unit at St. Luke’s Hospital. She consistently advocates for patient safety and excellence in care while ensuring that nurses are supported at the bedside. As a nurse manager, she never hesitates to step in when patients need care, even during off hours. She is the kind of leader every nurse hopes for and truly deserves this recognition.
Joseph Lennartz
John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital
Joseph is a kind-hearted and passionate nurse practitioner specializing in endocrinology. A lifelong learner, he stays informed on the latest evidence-based treatments for his patients. He is a strong advocate for veterans at the John J. Cochran Veterans Hospital, ensuring they receive the highest-quality care and attention.
MollyÌýLubiewski
Mercy Hospital ×îÐÂÐÓ°ÉÔ´´
Molly’s dedication and passion for caring for patients and improving pediatric care are unmatched. She goes above and beyond to provide for the patients she serves and is as a role model for other caregivers.
