Best of Nursing Awards 2024: Finalist List

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More than 150 nurses, nursing organizations, brands, schools, and companies were nominated by the nursing community for this year's awards. They were all named as finalists of Nurse.org's Best of Nursing Awards 2024. Read on to learn about each finalist, then cast your vote by 12/31/24!

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• Early Career Nurse
• Influential Nurse
• Nurse Community Initiative
• Nurse Content Creator
• Nurse Community
• Nurse Event
• Nurse-Founded Business
• Nurse Innovation
• Nurse Leader
• Nurse Mentor
• Nurse Nonprofit
• Nurse Podcast Host
• Nurse Scrubs
• Nurse Shoes
• Nurse Technology
• Nurse Wellness Advocate
• Nursing School
• Nurse Stethoscope
• Travel Nursing Agency

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Early Career Nurse

• Frenchy Lim: Above and beyond, kind and helpful. Patient and willing to learn and teach.
• Maria Garcia: Working hard to create content in a variety of areas to inspire current Nurses, Nursing students, and others in the medical field. She has an untraditional path to Nursing (RN) and medicine after a 10-year history as a medical assistant and working full-time while in Nursing school. She is focused, motivated, and driven.
• Summer Szeto: I’m a new grad nurse (graduated in May) hoping to share my experiences with nursing students and other new grad nurses. I was a first-generation student, considered homeless/at risk of homelessness under FAFSA, and was a fully self-supported independent student working 3 jobs to support myself as a full-time nursing student. I didn’t have much financial or in the way of advice on how to navigate college or nursing so I had to figure out a lot of things on my own. My goal is to help others like myself who might not have anyone to help guide them on their journey to becoming an RN. I love being able to help others and uplift those that need it. I know how hard it can be when you have nothing and it really takes a toll on your mental health. I want nursing students and new grads to know they are not alone and I want to be able to support them!
• Blair McGhee: I follow Blair on Instagram @thatnurseblair and I love the content she shares about nurse shoes and other items.
• Kylie Brinkerhoff: Kylie is such an inspiration to me and is a great nurse! I have followed her for some time on her @kylie.brinkerhoff account on IG.
• Madi Fogel: Madi is a dedicated and inspiring presence on social media IG @lifewithmads.rn, where she offers valuable advice for future and current nurses alike. She regularly shares insights into her daily life as a nurse, recommends useful nursing products, and provides practical guidance. Previously, she had an account filled with helpful nursing school tips and information, but unfortunately, it was taken down due to impersonation. Despite this setback, Madi has been resiliently working to rebuild her platform and continue sharing her knowledge, making a significant impact on the nursing community.

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Influential Nurse Finalists

• Jonathan V. Llamas, DNP, PMHNP-BC: "I am delighted to nominate Dr. Jonathan V. Llamas for the Influential Nurse Award. Dr. Llamas’s influential impact is felt not only in the clinical settings, where his expertise in psychiatric care transforms patient outcomes but also within the broader healthcare and nursing community. He has been recognized as the Nurse Icon of the Year, and his dedication to nursing excellence earned him a feature on the cover of Best of NP Student Magazine® during NP Week—testaments to his unmatched contributions to his contributions in mental health care. As an educator and mentor, Dr. Llamas continually uplifts the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners and has encouraged and influenced many of his colleagues and peers to pursue higher education and reach their full potential.”
• Kirsten Hixon: "I believe Kirsten Hixon deserves to win in the healthcare influence category due to her unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes. Her innovative approaches, compassionate care, and dedication to advancing healthcare accessibility have had a significant and lasting impact on the community."
• @scrubhacks (Lindsey): "I've followed her and her account for a long time. She is hands down the funniest nurse on social!"
• Maria Garcia: "My Fiancé is very motivated and hardworking. She is on a journey of being a nurse to doctor and mentors a lot of people into their true potential."
• Michael C. LaFerney: Leader in mental health nursing. 
• @morgansandiego (Morgan): "Morgan posts content that helps me make choices about my career. I feel like she's more of a mentor than an influencer."
• Natalie Rae: "She’s funny, makes me laugh, has been through the ringers, and still manages to create content that makes people smile."
• @nurse.blake (Nurse Blake): "I love Nurse Blake, he's funny and REAL. I’ve been following him since nursing school. He is the O.G. nurse influencer and does SO MUCH for nurses. I went to his show in Spokane and laughed my a** off. I hope to go to Nursecon at sea next year!”
• @the.nurse.erica (Nurse Erica): "Erica is not afraid to speak up about stuff that nurses are going through or to call out corrupt hospitals. She’s also pro-union which I love."
• Rebeca Leon: "Rebeca has an inspirational story and I love her account."
• Rebecca Love: "Rebecca is mostly known on LinkedIn and is a top nursing Voice there. She is a master at connecting the nursing community and keeping us all informed. She is also a TEDx speaker and is involved in a lot of AI in healthcare conversations."

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Nurse Community Initiative

• Advocates for Nurses: Maggie is dedicated to being a tireless champion for nurses. She strives to protect nurses' rights and elevate the nursing profession as a whole. Her mission is to ensure nurses receive education, guidance, and advocacy as it pertains to due process. She offers personalized consultations, educational courses, and expert legal nurse/legal nurse consulting.
• Commission For Nurse Reimbursement: The Commission for Nursing Reimbursement was launched in response to nationwide concerns about nursing staffing shortages. It will work to change the way that Medicare reimburses healthcare systems for the valuable care that nurses provide. 
• Debriefing the Front Lines - Daily Communication Initiative: Debriefing the Front Lines has been sending a daily affirmation via text since March of 2020. It is not an automated message and nurses can respond for real-time support which is why this initiative is so amazing! In a world of automation, the Daily Communication Initiative offers connection. It’s such a powerful reminder that there is support out there.
• Medventure App: They use geolocation to connect you to other healthcare professionals (not JUST travelers!) In your area! They also have a section for people to host meet-ups, rate hospitals from their contracts, and start group chats. MedVenture also works with other companies and brands to bring people together and uplift other nurse-led initiatives and brands, sponsors National Friendsgivings around the country, hosts an amazing CEU summer camp, created a medical volunteer trip in the Dominican Republic, and beyond the community, the company has a focus on sustainability and doing good for our planet. They've grown exponentially (over 20,000 users across the country) and caused such a dramatic change in so many people's lives in JUST 4 YEARS! There is no other community that is doing as much to this scale or has had the level of impact they've had in such a short amount of time. MV is a top-notch community.
• Nurse Support Network by Nurse Blake: The Nurse Support Network is a Facebook group and live support call that Nurse Blake started with the mission to create a safe space where nurses can openly share their experiences, address burnout, and overcome moral injury. Through peer support, education, and advocacy, the Nurse Support Network empowers nurses to prioritize their well-being and rediscover joy in their work. By fostering a culture of wellness and compassion, the organization ensures that every nurse feels valued, supported, and equipped to deliver exceptional care.
• Nurses United Against Human Trafficking: Founded in 2020 by two passionate nurses, NUAHT is dedicated to combating modern-day slavery through education, empowerment, and advocacy. Their comprehensive approach includes offering educational modules, resources, and consulting services to healthcare professionals, enabling them to recognize and respond to potential human trafficking victims seeking medical care. By developing human trafficking protocols and community response teams, NUAHT is creating a powerful network of informed and empowered nurses who are making a significant impact in the fight against this critical issue.
• Nursing Is STEM: Nursing is STEM is a national coalition founded in 2023 aimed at having the academic and professional discipline adopted broadly by educators, policymakers, healthcare providers, and the public domain as STEM designated to accelerate the growth of the professional workforce.
• Travel Nurse Takeover: Instrumental in providing traveler nurses from across the country a link to the community wherever they go. Traveling would not have been the same. Some of my best memories and friends were made through this group!

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Nurse Content Creator

• Courtnee Stagner @courtneestagner: Palliative care CRNP who posts hilarious videos! Love the videos of her husband trying to guess what nursing terms mean.
• DeAnna @itsnursedeanna: Your grandpa's favorite nurse and mine too!
• Em Jamison @thatspitfirenurse: Oncology palliative care nurse who posts educational content.
• Joscel James @josceljames: Joscel is a travel nurse and super funny!
• Leah H @offtheclocknurse: Leah posts important content about human trafficking and domestic violence.
• Lindsey and Chase @wereoutandabout: They are a married couple who have been travel nursing for a long time and paid off a ton of debt! I hope to do that one day, too, because of their inspiration.
• Maria Garcia @marsinmed: Creating videos to inspire nursing students, nurses, and others in all fields of medicine in her untraditional path to nursing and medicine, encompassing a variety of subjects and content.
• Nurse Courtney @court.nurse: DNP who recently opened her own clinic. I love her content!
• NurseDaddies @nursedaddies: They are so funny! Love Daddy Dazo!
• Travius Keandric @traviuskeandric: He posts entertaining videos and keeps in real. He is a really talented performing artist and rapper. 

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Nurse Event

• Beyond Nursing Experience: The event not only connects us with potential employers but also offers valuable workshops and information sessions that help us navigate new career paths.
• Nurse Boss Summit: This incredible summit brings together nurses from all backgrounds who are eager to transition from bedside care to leadership roles and entrepreneurship. With inspiring sessions, networking opportunities, and practical tools, it empowers attendees to pursue their dreams and develop the confidence needed to succeed in the healthcare industry.
• NurseCon at Sea: "This unique conference combines professional development with a fun cruise experience, offering over 50 ANCC-accredited CNEs in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. As an attendee, I loved the variety of educational sessions, from pharmacology to interactive simulations, and the chance to unwind with fellow nurses during themed parties and entertainment. NurseCon at Sea is not just about learning; it’s about building connections and celebrating our profession while creating unforgettable memories on the open water! I love that NURSE BLAKE runs this!"
• NurseCon Orlando: Attending NurseCon Orlando was an unforgettable experience, with over 40 accredited CNE hours available, engaging sessions, and exciting activities like themed parties and interactive games. It’s not just about learning; it’s about connecting with fellow nurses and celebrating our profession in a vibrant atmosphere. NurseCon Orlando truly makes continuing education enjoyable and memorable!
• Nurse Well Being Conference (Presented by: Northern Colorado Health Sector Partnership): "As a member of the planning committee for this event, first as a student, and now as an RN, it is critically important work that this event is doing. We hear 'self-care' all the time, but what do we, as nurses who are always giving to others, really do to take care of ourselves... Because there is ALWAYS something to be doing for someone else. This event aims to give nurses a day to breathe, to learn about all of the different ways that self-care can look, to gain tools to help us take care of ourselves, 24/7. The event includes speakers who are experts on self-care and well-being, specifically for Healthcare workers, as well as massages (provided by a local massage therapy school), therapy dogs (a HUGE hit), delicious food, time for networking and/or being with your colleagues in a setting outside of work, and vendors who (this part is amazing to me) not only provide services that contribute to the well-being of people but must provide an in-the-moment activity/freebie/etc to allow for self-care and well-being to all RNs who visit their vendor table. Vendors have provided coloring sheets, fidget toys, a sand pouring station, calm stickers, etc; I think it is unique but SO important that vendors are required to contribute to the day in the here and now. Overall, this event provides so much to RNs the day of, but also equips RNs to better take care of themselves in the days, weeks, months, and years following the event. We include student nurses all the way through the top dog nurses in local Healthcare agencies, and we continue to grow and expand our reach. This event truly is incredible!"
• Red Sox Nurse Appreciation Night: “7 years and it keeps getting better! The Red Sox do an awesome job honoring nurses on the field by throwing the first pitch. I’ve gone the past 2 years!”
• TravCon: “TravCon is an amazing experience for nurses who want to pursue travel nursing while getting CEUs, and certifications, and making life-long friends while meeting up with old ones. The speakers are so motivational and truly professionals on their topic. The after parties and events are memorable, fun and it's the only event where nurses go to truly feel loved and spoiled.”

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Nurse-Founded Business

• A Light After Nine: I should be considered for the nurse-owned business award because of my commitment to transforming the maternal health space through A Light After Nine. After enduring nine pregnancy losses, I turned my personal pain into a mission-driven nonprofit, providing palliative care services, emotional support, and resources for families facing pregnancy loss and fertility challenges. By combining my nursing background with compassionate care, I’m addressing critical gaps in maternal health, empowering others to heal and find hope through their darkest moments. My work is not just a business, it's a movement for change and community healing.
• Absolut Beauti Bar: Tyronika, better known as Ty- is the owner of the Absolut Beauti Bar. Her professionalism, dedication, and deep-rooted passion for the beauty and wellness industry have profoundly influenced her medspa’s exceptional standards. Known throughout the community for her expertise and advanced practices, Ty continually raises the bar for treatments provided to her clients. Her unwavering drive, coupled with her joyful spirit, shines through in every client interaction, making her truly deserving of this recognition as an outstanding leader and innovator.
• Avail Health: Joe is a trailblazer dedicated to making a difference in health care. With a decade of experience leading behavioral health initiatives for a value-based care health plan, Joe shifted his focus to building a digital health company that partners with health plans and ACOs to improve outcomes for adults and seniors with chronic medical and behavioral health needs. Passionate about connecting the dots to drive positive change, Joe is committed to serving vulnerable and underserved populations.
• Commodore Concierge Nurse Mgmt: Jeannemarie Bozza is the CEO and founder of Commodore Concierge Nurse Management, an elite home nursing company specializing in hospital-at-home care. Commodore Concierge Nurse Management offers advanced, tailored home care for patients with complex medical needs. Their team of 160 ICU nurses and 60 aides, all hand-trained by Jeannie herself, provide expert-level care with discretion and compassion, treating their patients as they would want their own family members cared for. The Commodore Cares Foundation’s mission is to provide exceptional healthcare services to those who may not have access to them otherwise, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the lives of those it serves.
• Corstrata: Katherine Piette and Alicia Jenkins lead Corstrata, a telehealth company pioneering virtual wound and ostomy care delivery. With a mission rooted in improving access to specialized nursing care, Corstrata bridges the gap between patients and certified wound and ostomy nurses, who are often scarce in post-acute settings. Corstrata provides comprehensive evidence-based consultations in hospitals, home health, hospice, skilled nursing facilities, and new care delivery models. 
• Firefly Vein Light LLC CEO, Adam Banuelos RN, BSN
  Firefly was created by two pediatric ER travel nurses who recognized consistencies in delays in care in infants and newborns due to missed IVs. A large contributing factor had two parts: 1) There was a lack of reliable infant and newborn vein finders 2) There was a lack of knowledge (mostly in adult ER) that this technology existed and how to utilize it. The most impressive part is the, now CEO, and co-founder of Firefly, Adam Banuelos RN, BSN, made his first portable vein light (transilluminator) in his garage due to restrictions of international shipping during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adam was successfully able to teach an entire adult ER not only how to use a vein light but also how to use it with success in increasing 1st attempts IVs in infants. After approximately 20 nurses came to him asking him to make them one of the vein lights (which was a modified keychain flashlight) due to their success in getting IVs on the first attempt the idea for Firefly was born. The road to commercialization was rough and Firefly nearly failed multiple times due to multiple factors, including a change of ownership when Adam bought out his original business partner. But Adam believed that Firefly could truly change healthcare in kids so much that he went all in. He dedicated the next 3 years of his life to not only building the brand but creating and education program to go with it to ensure the nurses who cared for children had the resources they needed to be successful in caring for these children. In the spring of 2023 Firefly nearly went bankrupt due to infection control concerns and the need to redesign the product (to what is now the Firefly Vein Light Model 2.0*) to address these concerns without having any incoming revenue from the company. Adam did what many entrepreneurs have done when they believe in what they are doing with such passion, he sold his house to invest the capital into Firefly. This held Firefly afloat long enough to launch Model 2.0*. Today after 15 months there are thousands of Firefly Vein Light Model 2.0* is in clinical practice in all 50 states and the global demand is growing as nurses around the world have heard of the clinical application of Firefly. The Firefly Vein Light Model 2.0* has been gaining recognition from hospitals and nurses from all over the country and has even been an Amazon #1 best seller two of the 6 months it has been on Amazon. Adam and Firefly have partnerships in the works for global expansion as well as educational expansion with multiple organizations to be announced in 2025. Firefly is truly changing not only delays in care for infants and newborns but creating a much less stressful experience for both the patient's family and the nurses who care for the child. On behalf of TEAM FIREFLY, we thank all those thousands of nurses who have trusted Firefly in their practice with the most precious of patients.
• FreshRN: Kati is the founder of FreshRN, which provides education and resources for new nurses. She has also authored several books on nursing and healthcare. She has helped me so much over the years, and I’ve talked to countless other nurses who have used her resources. 
• GoodWork: Kirsten was an RN for years and founded Quality Clinicians to better serve the people she used to work with. She fought to bring higher pay to healthcare staff. How she is working on a new Company, Goodwork, to make finding a job a more fair and equitable experience.
• Heart Sound Solutions: Heart Sound Solutions was started by a nurse named Justin Owens. He and his company deserve this award because they have single-handedly helped students all over the world get the instruments and tools they need for nursing and medical school. They're truly making a difference in our field.
• HerCrescent&Co: "Hillary has been a nurse for five years, and her passion for the profession is truly inspiring. She's not just dedicated to her patients; she’s also on a mission to give back in a way that reflects her creativity and spirit. From the moment I met her, I knew she was special—always searching for new ways to make a positive impact on others. Her journey took an exciting turn when she painted a vibrant mural in our hospital's pediatric unit. But then, life threw her a curveball with COVID, leading to a four-week quarantine. Instead of letting this setback keep her down, she transformed it into an opportunity to birth the early idea of HerCrescentandCo. She initially launched her candle line, "WaxingCrescentCandles," but something still felt off—she craved a deeper connection with her community and a more fulfilling way to express her creativity. After several months of brainstorming and refining her vision, Hillary took a leap of faith that would change everything. She started selling her whimsical doodles on t-shirts, gaining some traction but not quite the momentum she hoped for. Undeterred, she transformed our basement into her creative haven, pouring her heart and soul into her entrepreneurial dream. Then came the moment that changed it all: one of her videos went viral on TikTok! We both screamed in delight—it was pure joy encapsulated in a single moment. With this newfound recognition, Hillary decided to dive into her business full-time, launching HerCrescentandCo with a mission to provide nurses with adorable, relatable, and functional apparel, stickers, and more. Hillary is a force of nature. She pours her love into her patients, her community, and her business, and she truly deserves every bit of success that comes her way. I can’t think of anyone more deserving than her.”
• Juy Compression Socks: They are a nurse-founded company who creates products for healthcare workers.
• Laxo: Developed by Nurse Practitioners Rob Hill and Michael Thorn, this innovative device addresses the high rates of surgical drain occlusions, which can lead to significant complications and increased healthcare costs. With its patented design, the Laxo Device not only improves post-surgical care but also enhances patient safety and comfort, showcasing the powerful impact that nurse-led innovations can have in transforming healthcare practices.
• Mel’s Crafty CoRNer: Mel has brought such a light to the nursing community! She is the epitome of facing challenges, pivoting, and making something beautiful for them! I love how she transitioned from helping patients to helping nurses.
• NurseApproved: Founded by nurses, Nurse Approved provides a unique platform for third-party evaluations of healthcare products, ensuring that innovations meet the rigorous standards required by frontline caregivers. Their commitment to validating products through the insights of nurses—who are the largest segment of the healthcare workforce—demonstrates a profound understanding of the challenges faced in patient care. Nurse Approved's certification mark, awarded by the USPTO, signifies trust and quality, making it easier for healthcare professionals to identify reliable solutions.
• NurseBnB: Keisha Manning is a compassionate nurse who has over 15 years of experience in critical care nursing. As a former travel nurse, she has experienced the horror of housing while relocating for assignments. Experiencing housing scams and hefty upfront costs, often left her and her colleagues with little to no savings after a contract. What broke the camel's back was when her colleague who was also a travel nurse could not find a place to stay while working the night shift. He ended up sleeping in his car for 2 nights then quit the assignment. This led her to create a booking platform that will revolutionize the online booking industry, saving renters up to 80% in upfront costs protecting the homeowner's investment, and saving them thousands of dollars in the process. Keisha Manning immigrated to the USA from Jamaica as an ICU Nurse she later went on to earn her master's in Business administration and also specializes in Digital marketing. 
• Primary Record: Jean Ross, RN, wakes up every morning driven by a clear mission: to ensure that every family has a complete health record at their fingertips. During her years in critical care, Jean witnessed firsthand the overwhelming complexity and fragmentation in healthcare, where families often struggled to piece together vital information during emergencies and care transitions. Inspired by the transformative potential of the 21st Century Cures Act’s patient access laws, she co-founded Primary Record with her neighbor, Jim McIntosh, to create a platform that empowers patients and families to organize, collect, and share health data. Primary Record is available today for anyone seeking one, secure place to manage their health information, offering tools like AI, audio transcription, and permission-based sharing to help find, understand, and share their health story effectively. As co-founder and CEO of Primary Record, Jean is fiercely committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent patients from accessing and managing their health information. She is particularly excited about the upcoming launch of Primary Record Pro, a platform designed to take care coordination to new levels by enabling professionals to directly access and work alongside family-managed health data. This visibility into the complete health story allows care teams to effectively assist with any health journey, deliver coordinated care seamlessly, and make informed decisions. Launching this fall with five committed businesses already on board, the Primary Record team is leading the charge in using patient access laws to improve care for families.
• Quality Clinicians: Kirsten, a former pediatric CVICU travel nurse, has turned her passion for healthcare into a mission to transform staffing practices. She founded Quality Clinicians, a staffing agency built on the principles of transparency and fairness. As the co-creator of Good Work (goodwork.world), she’s introducing a fresh approach to the industry with a job marketplace that benefits everyone involved. By sharing 50% of fees with clinicians and charging employers only for completed work, Good Work creates an environment where both organizations and healthcare professionals thrive.
• Replenishift: I am nominating my business for the nurse-owned business category because I am dedicated to supporting wellness for nurses that start at a nutritional level. My hope is to be able to help more nurses every year to support their overall health, energy, sleep, and stress.
• RNegade: Karen is changing the way we think of nursing continuing education. Her belief in autonomy and identifying your own gaps in knowledge empowers nurses to learn in ways that resonate with them; not only their scope of practice but exploring other areas of interest. She was one of the first to introduce the concepts of ces by podcast. Realizing that she was accumulating about 20 hrs a week listening to various podcasts she wondered, why aren't I getting rewarded for learning all this anatomy and physiology? At RNegade, nurses can listen to medical and health professionals share insights on forward-thinking solutions that are changing the landscape of health and wellbeing.
• Soleya Scrubs: Nurse-owned & Made in the USA. Beth Guynes, BSN, RN was returning to work after several years and was frustrated that scrubs hadn't improved at all. She started Soleya Scrubs to combine the comfort of brands like Vuori and Lululemon with the style of brands like Reformation and Aritzia. Made in the USA, this Seattle-based brand makes scrubs so soft and comfy that nurses have been spotted wearing them to the gym, yoga studio, even out on date night. Known by many as the "Vuori of Scrubs", Beth sees Soleya not as just medical apparel, but as a form of self-care. She wants her fellow nurses to be able to wear scrubs that are professional, comfy, relaxing and empowering.
• Streamline Flow: Amanda has over twenty-five years of healthcare-focused experience within the management consulting, service, and venture capital worlds. She is an entrepreneur at heart and her extensive healthcare experience provides further insight into the needs of the provider and consumer.
  Streamline Flow (SLF) is your team’s centralized platform to track and manage patient care plan adherence regardless of diagnosis. We reduce patient leakage, and loss to follow-up and improve adherence to their care plan, which improves patient outcomes. EHR's provide minimal support for longitudinal patient care. SLF brings all the 'pieces' together to identify patients who are at risk of not complying with their care plans. SLF clearly identifies the next step in patient care for both the care team and the patient. No longer are you "digging through" the EHR to find the data you need – SLF provides immediate visualization, with Clear Connected Care.
• SWOOP: SWOOP deserves to win this category because it was born out of a deep, personal understanding of the needs of nurses. Founded by Virginia Peterson, an emergency department nurse in Alaska, SWOOP began as a small, handmade operation to solve a problem that so many nurses face: finding a bra that offers both comfort and support during grueling 12-hour shifts. After struggling to find one herself, Virginia took matters into her own hands—literally—and began handcrafting bras designed specifically for the demands of the nursing profession.
  What started with handmade bras has grown into a brand that supports nurses and healthcare workers with clothing that meets their unique needs. SWOOP products, from bras to tunics, are tested in Alaska, a place known for its rugged conditions, where durability, comfort, and functionality are paramount. Nurses already work in high-pressure environments, and SWOOP’s mission is to make sure that what they wear supports them, not hinders them, in their essential roles. Beyond comfort, SWOOP empowers nurses with garments that help them feel confident and capable in their work, knowing they are wearing something made by someone who truly understands their challenges. SWOOP’s products are not only a testament to innovation in nursing, but they also celebrate the resilience, strength, and spirit of nurses—many of whom have already made SWOOP a trusted part of their daily lives. This nomination is a recognition of SWOOP’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for nurses, and improving their well-being while they focus on patient care.

Nurse Innovation

• A Light After Nine (Rachell Dumas): After enduring nine pregnancy losses, I turned my personal pain into a mission-driven nonprofit, providing palliative care services, emotional support, and resources for families facing pregnancy loss and fertility challenges. By combining my nursing background with compassionate care, I’m addressing critical gaps in maternal health, empowering others to heal and find hope through their darkest moments. My work is not just a business, it's a movement for change and community healing.
• Awake and Walking (Kali Dayton): Kali is doing transformative work with her goal to improve outcomes and spread awareness by redefining care models about sedation and mobility in the ICU setting.
• Clara (Melinda Yormick): Melinda Yormick, is the visionary founder of CLARA, an innovative platform that provides hyper-accurate indoor navigation for hospital patients and staff. Her groundbreaking work addresses critical challenges in healthcare navigation, ensuring that medical teams can promptly locate patients and resources, thereby improving outcomes and saving lives. Melinda’s dedication to enhancing patient care through technological innovation exemplifies the transformative impact of nurse-led initiatives in the healthcare industry.
• Cloud9 Care (Suzanne Mayer): Suzanne has been a nurse working in acute care for over 30 years in pediatric ICU, neonatal ICU, and other areas of specialty practice. Based on the experience of preventative skin care being second nature for nurses like Suzanne, Cloud9 Care was created after seeing a gap in care while helping a family member through home hospice. Shocked at seeing how quickly Stage 1 pressure sores formed on her aunt’s back and head, Suzanne created a solution that successfully prevented any further skin deterioration prior to her aunt’s passing weeks later, while also providing comfort during this fragile time. Years of research and prototype development have ultimately produced a simple mattress overlay — the Cloud9 Care System — designed to provide comfort, prevent skin breakdown in at-risk patients, and ease caregiver burden. Cloud9 Care has a patent pending, and a trademark was granted in 2024. This simple yet effective system has been demonstrating clear success in trials across the country in patients at risk for pressure injuries, both at home and in rehabilitation facilities. Results show not only the prevention of skin breakdown but also enhanced healing of preexisting stage 1 & 2 pressure sores. Cloud9 Care has prototypes in development for reducing linen costs incurred by large facilities by using recycled non-woven fabrics, and a biodegradable version is on the horizon to improve sustainability even further. This ingenious device can save families and medical facilities significant unnecessary healthcare costs while improving the efficiency of care. Most importantly, it can spare patients unnecessary and wholly avoidable pain and suffering. Cloud9 Care is clearly demonstrating the potential to be a vital component in healthcare delivery’s goal of zero harm.
• FASSsyringe (Hilario Castillo): Hilario Castillo, RN, BSN – Innovator, Nurse Entrepreneur, and Founder of Innovative Neurons LLC. Hilario Castillo, a Registered Nurse and dedicated Entrepreneur, combines his acute care clinical expertise with a passion for innovation to lead a Med-Tech startup focused on developing advanced medical technologies. His work is aimed at addressing chronic health challenges, reducing healthcare costs, and creating safer, more efficient solutions for both healthcare professionals and patients. As the visionary behind the patented FASS (FASS ACCESS SAFETY SYRINGE), Hilario has introduced groundbreaking time-saving and safety features that distinguish it from conventional syringes. This innovation is poised to significantly decrease healthcare costs, minimize needle stick injuries, and streamline routine injection procedures in acute care settings. A defining aspect of Hilario’s journey is the deep connections he forms with those he cares for. His lead senior advisor, Richard Murphy, initially came into his life as a patient. Inspired by the exceptional care he received at the bedside, Richard along with Claudette, Gary and Jerry chose to become lifelong mentors and advisors, guiding Hilario in his entrepreneurial pursuits. Hilario’s commitment to innovation has earned him recognition through participation in prestigious healthcare incubators and hackathons, such as NYCEDC life science initiatives like SBIR IMPACT NYC HEALTH TECH and the elabNYC program. He has also been involved in events like NSF NY I-CORP, NYCSPACEAPPS, NYCbigapps, NIHUB accelerator, and SONSIEL Nurse Hackathon. Recently, Hilario’s efforts culminated in a victory at a pitch competition in Albany, New York, following months of dedicated participation in the Albany Medical College and Albany MedHealth innovation competition.
• M7 Health (Ilana Borkenstein): M7 Health is a platform that addresses the critical needs of nurses, who are the backbone of our healthcare system yet often underinvested and under-technologized. By providing health systems with the tools to optimize staffing and improve nurse satisfaction, M7 Health empowers nurses to deliver high-quality care while fostering a sustainable workforce that meets the demands of modern healthcare.
• Michael C LaFerney: He has many innovations and theories:
  • Mental Health Article
  • Vasovagal Syncope Article
  • Loneliness and Psychiatry
  • Nursing Centered on Loneliness
• Nurse Brain (Samu Mhlambi): NurseBrain AI is a pioneering nurse workflow automation platform, that optimizes healthcare operations, driving financial sustainability, and ensuring resources are focused on providing exceptional patient care.
• Perfecting Peds (Lyle Mioduszewski): Lyle Mioduszewski, RN, BSN, is a leader in disruptive care for high-risk, high-cost pediatric populations. As co-founder and President of Perfecting Peds, a New Jersey-based tech-enabled service startup, he spearheads commercial strategy and business development. Perfecting Peds specializes in optimizing and safeguarding medication therapies for medically complex children. "We integrate board-certified pediatric PharmDs into the care teams of our sickest kids, for the long haul. Our customers are patients, parents, providers, and payers, and we empower each of them to achieve medication optimization, safety, collaboration, and coordination," says Mioduszewski. With 21 years of diverse healthcare experience spanning care delivery, commercial roles in medical devices, diagnostics, medical supply chain, and health information technology, Lyle is a graduate of Purdue University.
• PocketRN (Mirini Kim): This innovative platform revolutionizes healthcare delivery by placing expert, empathetic nurses at the center of patient care, particularly in the home setting. By leveraging video-enabled technology and remote patient monitoring, PocketRN bridges the gap in support that patients often experience between provider visits, empowering nurses to provide high-touch, personalized care while creating sustainable opportunities within the nursing workforce.
• Quality Clinicians (Kirsten Hixon): Kirsten is a former traveling pediatric CVICU RN, who is truly an innovator in the nursing profession and owns/operates a nurse-owned staffing agency, Quality Clinicians.
  Kirsten is also one of the key minds behind a new job marketplace called "Good Work".
  Good Work is the first transparent job marketplace where organizations only pay when work gets done, and clinicians get 50% of the fees, aligning all participants' incentives.
• Safe Seizure (Taofiki Gafar-Schaner & Joey Ferry): SafeSeizure is a revolutionary product invented by two bedside nurses to address a critical gap in patient safety for those at risk of seizures in hospital settings. The patented design provides a fast self-inflating mechanism that offers easy access to hospital bed control panels, and its single-patient use allows it to follow patients throughout their care journey. The product demonstrates exceptional problem-solving and a commitment to improving patient outcomes and nursing practice.
• True Concepts Medical Technologies 9 (Mick Hopkins): True Concepts Medical Technologies (TCMT) has developed innovative dual-syringe technologies that have the potential to save the U.S. healthcare system billions of dollars while significantly improving patient outcomes. Their focus on addressing critical clinical challenges, such as sepsis and sudden cardiac arrest, through intelligently designed solutions exemplifies the impact that nurse-led initiatives can have on enhancing healthcare practices and reducing human error in medical settings.

Nurse Leader

• Alex Kelley: I have been a nurse for 15 years. Out of those 4 years I've only spent 3.5 in flight. I joined Mercy Flights (the nation's first not-for-profit air ambulance organization) in June of last year and was the recipient of this year's 'Commitment to Excellence' award. Many of us appreciate recognition for our accomplishments, so I am nominating myself. The 3 major accomplishments worth mentioning are as follows: Developing and implementing a QA program for our flight department. This was a huge undertaking and required collaboration and teamwork. Updating our company’s customer service feedback program. Taking a mailer questionnaire method of getting feedback from hospitals and making it a digital survey with immediate results via a QR code was such a fun project. Working together with motivated paramedics from other local agencies and fellow flight clinicians to bring our flight department portable ultrasounds. Having access to current methods of assessing our patients is amazing.
• Ama Mathewos: Ama exemplifies exceptional leadership and has made outstanding contributions to our Pathway-designated organization, positively impacting both patient care and the nursing practice environment.
• Ashley Crafton: "Ashley Crafton is a dedicated obstetric nurse with a distinguished 23-year career, demonstrating a profound passion for family, exceptional medical expertise, and unwavering empathy for women and children. Her impactful service to thousands of families includes perinatal bereavement support and vital contributions to humanitarian efforts like Operation Allied Refuge (2021 Afghanistan evacuation) and the 2022 Ukraine evacuation. In 2019, Ashley founded Galena Innovations, aiming to enhance family well-being. Renowned for her knowledge in preterm birth, early startup execution, and preclinical research, she is listed as the inventor on a number of patents, including the Hannah Cervical Cup. She earned her BSN from Northwest Nazarene University and is currently pursuing a master's at Johns Hopkins University in Biotechnology Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. In 2022, she won the Boise Entrepreneur Week Pitch Competition, further solidifying her status as an accomplished entrepreneur. She has been happily married for 20 years and is the mother of five accomplished children. During my time as a perinatal bereavement nurse, I got pretty disheartened. I was so sick of sitting with a mom who was grieving the loss of her baby and having her turn to me and say, 'Why in this day and age, with all the technology that we have, can we not do ANYTHING about {insert common pregnancy complication here}?' I'd have to look at her and say, 'I don't know.' It got to the point where I was mad—mad at a system that failed these women. And then I realized something: I was part of the problem. If I sat here and did nothing about this, I was just like “them”—whoever it was that I was mad at. I decided to begin reading the research surrounding spontaneous preterm birth because it is the most prevalent reason for families losing their babies. When you take the 10,000-foot view, you see that we have tried two buckets of things: medications that cause harm and don’t work, and compressing the cervix closed. Compressing the cervix only further weakens cervical tissue, though. It’s even a technique for inducing labor. It seemed crazy to me that we would try the same technique used in labor inductions to create cervical change to stop it from happening. So, I thought maybe doing the opposite might help—putting suction or pulling on the cervix. It turns out that that’s exactly right. Stretching tissue causes an immediate stiffness and, over time, stimulates the collagen in the tissue to rebuild itself, better bearing any load that is placed on it (like, say, pregnancy). I really had no inclination of doing anything about this. I went into work that night as usual, and a woman came in showing signs of labor. I had assisted in tying her cervix closed a week earlier with a technique called cerclage, but this tore through, and she delivered a baby that was too young to survive. I knew she was going to ask me that question 'Why can’t we do anything about this?' and I couldn’t face her unless I was willing to get to work. And so I jumped in! We’ve just made it through our First in Human trial, and we were able to stiffen the cervix of a non-pregnant woman by 38% long-term. We are now ready to perform our next clinical trial.
  https://youtu.be/eLA2UWrVHHQ
• Brittany Warfield: Brittany is an influential nurse in many ways. She started out as a CNA, became an LPN, and then earned her RN. She recently received her BSN. She works at Meritus Medical Center. Prior to that, she worked in SNF and LTC. She was an ADON through COVID and managed to help her facility, patients, and fellow nurses grow and thrive during one of the most difficult times to be a nurse. Since then, she started at Meritus as a floor nurse and care manager in the renal palliative oncology unit and has touched hundreds of lives and helped patients live out their final days in peace and comfort, achieving their final wishes. She has helped get patients started on chemo and dialysis and helped with the hardest transitions possible. She consistently goes above and beyond for her patients, their families, and her coworkers. She sets the standard for what care for our patients should be.
• Casey Green: As "Critical Care Casey," she has leveraged her platform to educate and inspire fellow nurses. Her content consistently offers practical advice, evidence-based insights, and encouragement to nurses at all stages of their careers. Casey exemplifies excellence in nursing through her extensive clinical expertise, commitment to education, and dedication to sharing knowledge with the nursing community.
• Charlene Platon: "I am honored to nominate Charlene Platon, MS, RN, PHN, FNP-BC, for the Nurse Leader of the Year Award in recognition of her outstanding leadership, dedication to clinician well-being, and innovative contributions to healthcare delivery. As the Director of Ambulatory Nursing at Stanford Health Care, Charlene drives innovation and leads efforts to elevate ambulatory nursing practices, ensuring that healthcare delivery meets the evolving needs of patients and providers alike. Her leadership at Stanford has had a profound impact on advancing patient care while fostering an environment of collaboration and growth for her nursing team. Charlene's commitment to the nursing profession extends beyond her role at Stanford. In 2019, she was selected as one of the twelve inaugural Johnson & Johnson Nurse Innovation Fellows, an accolade that allowed her to focus on a cause close to her heart—nurse well-being. Motivated by her own experiences with mental health challenges, Charlene founded Fifth Window, a groundbreaking, community-driven platform dedicated to supporting the well-being of nurses. As CEO and Co-Founder, she has created a space for nurses to access vital resources, peer support, and mental health tools, helping to transform the culture of nursing to prioritize wellness and resilience. With a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of California, Irvine, as well as being a licensed registered nurse and a board-certified family nurse practitioner, Charlene brings over 12 years of leadership experience to her work. Her vision is rooted in compassion and creativity, and she is a passionate advocate for using innovation and technology to improve healthcare delivery and clinician well-being. Charlene Platon exemplifies what it means to be a Nurse Leader—her dedication to supporting her colleagues, enhancing patient care, and innovating for the future of healthcare makes her an exceptional candidate for this prestigious award."
• Christopher Harkins: I am writing to express my humble and proud belief that I would be honored with the Nurse Leader of the Year Award. My commitment to the nursing profession, my colleagues, and the community has been unwavering, and I have consistently demonstrated leadership, advocacy, and a passion for excellence in nursing care. **Previous Achievement** In recognition of my dedication and contributions to nursing, I was awarded the Kern County Nurse of the Year. This accolade reflected my commitment to patient care, professional development, and the advancement of nursing standards within our community. **Advocacy and Leadership** Following my recognition as Nurse of the Year, I identified critical issues at a local hospital that were affecting not only my ability to provide quality care but also the well-being of my fellow nurses. I took the initiative to fight against practices that exploited our workforce, including inadequate staffing levels and violations of Title 22 regulations. My advocacy was not just for myself but for the entire nursing staff who deserved better working conditions and support. In collaboration with the SEIU Union, I worked tirelessly to address these issues. Together, we organized efforts that brought attention to our concerns, mobilizing our community and engaging with local politicians. Through persistent advocacy and dedication to our cause, we successfully lobbied for the passage of Assembly Bill AB 892. **Impact of AB 892** The passage of AB 892 marked a significant victory not just for nurses but for transparency and accountability in our healthcare system. This legislation mandates the Kern County Hospital Authority and the Kern Medical Center Foundation to adhere to best accounting practices, as established by the Governmental Accounting Standards Board. Additionally, it subjects the Kern Medical Center Foundation to the California Public Records Act, ensuring that nonprofit organizations are held to the same standards of transparency as public entities. This bill represents a critical step toward ensuring that financial resources are allocated in a manner that prioritizes patient care and adequate staffing. It empowers nurses and healthcare professionals to advocate for their rights and the rights of those they serve. **Conclusion** I believe that my journey as a nurse leader, from being honored as Kern County Nurse of the Year to championing significant legislative changes, exemplifies the qualities of a Nurse Leader of the Year. I am committed to fostering an environment where nurses can thrive, patients receive the best care, and our healthcare system operates with integrity and transparency. Thank you for considering my proposal for the Nurse Leader of the Year Award. I am honored to be part of a profession that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Sincerely, Christopher Harkins
  
• Clarisa Thomas: I am honored to submit my nomination for the "Best in Nursing Awards 2024." With over 20 years of dedication to the nursing profession, I believe my journey reflects the values and excellence this award represents. Throughout my journey, I have steadfastly dedicated myself to enhancing clinical operations, nurturing leadership, and making a meaningful impact within the healthcare realm. Starting my journey as a critical care nurse after graduating from Hampton University, I soon recognized the significant influence that proficient nursing can have on patient outcomes and the quality of healthcare overall. This understanding propelled me through numerous leadership positions, ultimately leading to my current role as the Director of Clinical Operations at a prominent allergy, asthma, and immunology practice in Charlotte, NC. In my role, I have led initiatives that improved patient care quality, streamlined operations, and resulted in significant organizational growth. My ability to blend clinical expertise with management acumen has allowed me to create a nurturing environment for both staff and patients, ensuring that our practice remains at the forefront of medical excellence. A cornerstone of my career has been my passion for mentorship and professional development. I founded CRT Consulting Solutions, a healthcare leadership coaching and consulting firm, and launched the podcast Preside + Prevail to share my extensive experience and insights with fellow healthcare leadership professionals. I am committed to sharing my knowledge with current and aspiring leaders, emphasizing the importance of integrity, humility, and continuous learning. I am an active member of several professional organizations that reflect my dedication to the field of nursing and healthcare management. These include the Metrolina Medical Group Management Association, the American College of Healthcare Executives, the North Carolina Nurses Association, and The KNOW Women. Through these affiliations, I have had the opportunity to contribute to discussions on healthcare policy, share best practices, and advocate for the nursing profession.
• Dan Weberg: Dr. Weberg has been at the forefront of integrating technology and innovation into nursing practice. His work focuses on improving healthcare delivery systems and enhancing the nurse experience, which is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by the nursing workforce today. Dr. Weberg's influence extends far beyond his professional role. As a LinkedIn Top Voice, he consistently provides valuable insights on healthcare innovation, leadership, and the future of nursing to a wide audience. His ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner has made him a trusted source of information and inspiration for nurses at all stages of their careers.
• Dr. Ashley Fenton: An inspiring nurse leader!
• Gabrielle Abelard: Dr. Gabrielle Abelard is an accomplished motivational speaker, educator, and clinician. She founded and directs Abelard Psychotherapy, Inc., a multi-site community mental health clinic which serves diverse clients throughout Massachusetts and provides comprehensive, accessible behavioral health services.  Dr. Abelard proudly works as a Clinical Associate Professor at her alma mater, University of Massachusetts, Amherst. At the university, Dr. Abelard directs the Graduate Program for Master's, Certificates, and Psychiatric Mental Health at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing. Her leadership follows her into her associations: she is the Immediate Past President of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association (APNA) New England Chapter and is the first Chair of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee of the Massachusetts Association of Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses Association (MAAPPN). Additionally, she serves on the Boards of Directors for the New England Regional Black Nurses Association (NERBNA), and the American Nurses Association (ANA) of Massachusetts.  Dr. Abelard's efforts have been acknowledged with several prestigious accolades: National Black Nurses Association Nurse Practitioner of the Year (2022), Massachusetts Nurses Association Manning Mentoring Award 2022, STRIDE and ADVANCE Faculty Fellow Awards at UMASS Amherst 2021, APNA New England Nancy Valentine Excellence in Leadership Award 2020, Young Haitian Professional of the Year 2019 by the US Haitian Chamber of Commerce, and has been recognized as a Fellow in the National Academies of Practice and the American Academy of Nursing.  Dr. Gabrielle Abelard is a dedicated mentor, published author, mental health clinician, and educator with over 20 years of experience in mental health nursing. Dr. Abelard holds a deep commitment to building resilience and improving health care outcomes both within and beyond nursing.
• Kacie Salas: Kacie is a member of the Debriefing the Front Lines team with an incredible story of addiction and whole-soul recovery. Utilizing her professional experience of 18 years and advanced training in subconscious healing and lived experience, Kacie facilitates a sobriety support group with daily sober check-ins. Her consistency is a testament to her own healing and commitment to serving others when alone is no longer enough.
• Kali Dayton: Dr. Dayton is at the forefront of the "Awake and Walking ICU" movement, which aims to reduce the negative effects of prolonged sedation and immobility in critically ill patients. Through her consulting work, she has been instrumental in helping ICU teams implement evidence-based practices that prioritize early mobility and minimize sedation, leading to improved patient outcomes and reduced ICU-related complications.
• Kathryne Neiling: Kathryne, aka Katie, is a DNP PMHNP student at Johns Hopkins University. She is also a community health nurse and has extensive experience in nursing healthcare management and quality improvement. She has excelled in the DNP program and has also taken on the role of graduate teaching assistant. As a TA, she has gone above and beyond in my psychopharmacology course. She has taken the initiative to support all students and provide extra educational opportunities for students. She has a positive attitude, is very professional, and will hopefully pursue working in academia upon graduation.
• Kim Giberga: "I am honored to submit this self-nomination in recognition of my contributions to the Nursing Community. Over the past year, I have worked diligently to establish a professional network that supports and connects over 550 members, including Nurse Practitioners, Physician Associates, Doctors, and students. My goal with this network is to provide valuable educational resources, networking and job opportunities, leadership development, and to foster collaboration across diverse provider roles, removing barriers between healthcare providers and supporting leadership opportunities for women in medicine. In 2023, I took an additional step in expanding mental health access by founding a group psychiatric practice in San Antonio, an area that has historically been underserved in mental health services. In just one year, our practice has reached over 800 patients, positively impacting the community and enhancing the availability of critical mental health support. We function as a cooperative employing Nurse Practitioners as providers. I am deeply committed to setting a new standard in mental health care, one that breaks down barriers and promotes inclusivity among providers. This dedication to both patient care and professional development within the mental health field reflects my vision and passion, and I am grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this recognition."
• Kimberly Steele: I left a hospital position to take on a brand-new role as a mobile health nurse. We go out into the community providing preventable health screenings and other medical services to the underserved within my community.
• Lydel Wright: Lydel Wright, RN MSN, exemplifies nursing innovation and leadership. From caregiver to Advanced Nurse Executive, his journey reflects perseverance and dedication. As a Johnson & Johnson Nurse Innovation Fellow and Harvard-certified Global Public Health leader, Lydel challenges healthcare norms. His company, Access Threads, revolutionizes hospital textiles with patient-centric, sustainable designs. Lydel's commitment extends to community empowerment, dedicating 10% of profits to healthcare and technology education for disadvantaged communities.
• Michelle Oakley: Michelle is part of the Debriefing the Front Lines team and draws from her professional and lived experience to create systems change. Michelle is currently working as a hospital-based nurse coach in a Texas PICU with an emphasis on peer support, debriefing, and bereavement. Alongside her teammates, Michelle has been a consistent guide for nurses in need of mental health support as she helps nurses navigate single-incident and cumulative caregiving trauma.
• Michael C. LaFerney: Leader in mental health nursing.
• Natasha Lukasiwich: I am proud to nominate Natasha Lukasiwich for recognition as an outstanding nurse leader. Natasha has demonstrated exceptional dedication to patient care and nursing excellence throughout her career. As a passionate advocate for her patients, she consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their needs are met with compassion and professionalism. Her innovative approaches to nursing practice have significantly improved patient outcomes and fostered a collaborative environment among her colleagues. Natasha's commitment to mentorship and education inspires the next generation of nurses, making her a true asset to the nursing profession.
• Sarah Warren: I would like to nominate Sarah Warren, RN. As the co-founder and Co-Executive Director of Don't Clock Out, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting healthcare workers through the impacts of moral distress, Sarah has demonstrated exceptional leadership in addressing critical mental health needs within the nursing community. Through her innovative approach of combining peer support, mental health resources, collaborative workshops, and storytelling, Sarah has created a vital platform that empowers nurses to prioritize their well-being while navigating the challenges of their profession.
• Susan Davis: I am honored to nominate Dr. Susan Davis, known as "The Rescue RN," for her outstanding contributions to nursing leadership and innovation in healthcare emergency response. Dr. Davis has dedicated her career to enhancing the confidence and competence of healthcare professionals through her groundbreaking work in resuscitation education. As the founder of CodePRep™, an advanced healthcare emergency response training program, Dr. Davis has revolutionized the way healthcare teams prepare for and manage critical situations. Her innovative approach ensures that professionals are equipped with the necessary skills to respond effectively in high-stress emergencies.
• Tara Kosmas: Tara is the founding executive director of the mental health nonprofit, Debriefing the Front Lines. Tara began DTFL in March of 2020 in response to the pandemic. She is a consistent pillar of strength within the nursing community, leading a highly skilled and respected team. Tara is a pioneer of modern nursing theory having developed the term cumulative caretaking trauma. She and DTFL were the first to speak about “collective occupational trauma” and institutional betrayal. Tara not only talks about the systemic problems but brings solutions at an individual and organizational level. She is involved in trauma-informed care, and statewide debriefing initiatives, is a public speaker, and a continuing education provider. The most beautiful part of Tara’s leadership is that she remains connected to the community she has built. It’s apparent this is the work she was meant to be doing.
• Vanessa Benavides: As a nurse, she was able to build Go RN with other nurses who believed in the vision and dream of an Uber-esque type platform that gives nurses the ability to work when they want to...where they want.

Nurse Mentor

• Brandy Pinkerton: Brandy is a leading professional in today’s industry and mentors hundreds of travel nurses, assisting them as they navigate through the challenges they may face. She is so stellar, so calm, and so passionate she is adored by the industry!
• Maria Garcia: Maria is one of the most hardworking and driven women I know. While enrolled in an accelerated nursing program, she also prepared for the MCAT—all while working full-time. Her commitment to her goals and her remarkable work ethic make her not only an exceptional professional but also an inspiring role model. Maria's determination and dedication to her ambitions make her the ideal mentor, someone who can guide others to achieve their own goals with the same level of perseverance and resilience.
• Stephanie Suzadil: I spend a great deal of time online coaching people interested in emergency and transport nursing. I have helped upwards of 40 people obtain BCEN certifications and upwards of 50 nurses/paramedics/RTs get interviews and subsequent jobs in flight since 2019. I began a blog and my Instagram to help reach people who had interest in these fields because I myself did not have those resources. Further, I have been a soundboard for people struggling in healthcare programs—several I have assisted get grant money to fund their educations, assisted with study techniques, or dealt with the stresses of their programs. I have presented many nursing and paramedic students, seeking opportunities for them to pursue their interests and education. Finally, I put myself out there so that others suffering from mental illness or health issues can know they are not alone, acting as a role model in resilience and the power of never saying “no.”
• Ellaine Maala: Ellaine is a nurse who helps other nurses with financial education and building wealth, something not taught in nursing school yet so important for nurses to thrive in their careers.
• Lacey Magen: Lacey Magen is an absolute rockstar nurse mentor who goes above and beyond for nursing students and other nurses!

Nurse Nonprofit

• Rekindled Nurse: Rekindled Nurse is a nonprofit focused on community and resources. Their events are unmatched as they provide resources for nurses so they are healthy at and away from the bedside. They have so many offerings for nurses that give back, with the ultimate goal of providing support, reminding them of their worth and value, and helping them stay and stay well in the profession!
• Operation Happy Nurse: I would like to nominate Operation Happy Nurse, founded by nurse Shannon McPeek, for Nurse.org's Best of Nursing Awards. This innovative nonprofit organization is dedicated to providing mental health resources and support for nurses, offering a range of services from discussion boards and fitness videos to recipes and monthly playlists. Through her commitment to preventative care and building a supportive community, McPeek has created a vital platform that empowers nurses to prioritize their mental health and well-being while navigating the challenges of their profession.
• Don't Clock Out: I would like to nominate Don't Clock Out, a nonprofit organization co-founded by nurse Sarah Warren, for Nurse.org's Best of Nursing Awards. This innovative mental health initiative is dedicated to supporting healthcare workers through the impacts of moral distress, offering peer support, mental health resources, collaborative workshops, and storytelling opportunities. Through their commitment to addressing burnout and promoting well-being in the healthcare community, Warren and her team have created a vital support system that empowers healthcare professionals to prioritize their mental health while continuing to provide compassionate care to patients.
• Debriefing the Front Lines: Debriefing the Front Lines was one of the first nonprofits to emerge in 2020 in response to the mental health crisis facing nurses across the country.
  The team has proved they show up for the nursing community—from helping nurses navigate institutional betrayal and cumulative caretaking trauma, DTFL is a constant.
  DTFL provides debriefing of single-incident and cumulative caretaking trauma, emotional wellness offerings, sobriety support, and continuing nursing education to nurses working at the bedside and beyond.
• A Light After Nine: I founded A Light After Nine after my own journey through nine pregnancy losses before welcoming my miracle baby. My nonprofit fills a crucial gap in maternal healthcare by providing palliative care, emotional support, and community resources specifically for families experiencing pregnancy loss and fertility struggles. As a nurse, I’ve combined my professional expertise with personal experience to create a safe space where people can find real understanding, resilience, and hope in their darkest times. Winning this award would amplify the impact of A Light After Nine, allowing me to continue transforming the way maternal health supports families through the grief and healing journey.

Nurse Podcast Host

• Wali Khan, Nurse Converse Podcast: I am honored to nominate Dr. Wali Khan for his outstanding contribution to nursing discourse through his episode on the Nurse Converse Podcast, titled "Why Are Nurses Leaving The Profession?" This powerful and insightful discussion has resonated deeply with me and my journey as I struggle with thoughts of leaving the profession too. The episode tackles the critical issue of the mass exodus of nurses from bedside roles, offering a candid and comprehensive exploration of the systemic challenges facing the profession. His ability to articulate the complex factors contributing to this exodus, including unsafe staffing ratios, burnout, and systemic issues within healthcare, has sparked important conversations and raised awareness about the urgent need for change in the nursing field. The video on YouTube has around 150K views, highlighting its significant impact on the nursing community.
• Sarah Lorenzini: I am nominating Sarah Lorenzini for her outstanding contributions to nursing education and emergency care through her podcast, Rapid Response RN. As a Rapid Response Nurse and educator, Sarah has created an invaluable resource for nurses seeking to enhance their skills in handling critical situations.
  Sarah's podcast offers a unique perspective on emergencies, allowing listeners to experience real-life scenarios through the eyes of a Rapid Response Nurse. Her ability to break down complex pathophysiology, pharmacology, and nursing interventions into accessible content has made her show an essential tool for nurses at all experience levels.
• Colton Lord: I would like to nominate Colton Lord, RN, for his episode on the Nurse Converse Podcast titled "How Your Nurse License Opens Doors Beyond Healthcare." Colton's innovative perspective challenges the traditional view of nursing careers and empowers nurses to explore diverse opportunities beyond the bedside.
  Colton shares his personal journey and offers valuable insights on how nurses can leverage their licenses and skills to pursue non-traditional career paths. His message resonates deeply with nurses seeking to expand their horizons and find fulfillment in unexpected areas of the healthcare industry and beyond.
  Colton's discussion on overcoming identity crises in nursing and reframing one's nursing license as a tool rather than a limitation is particularly impactful. He encourages nurses to explore various roles, from telehealth and biotech to entrepreneurship and social media, demonstrating the versatility of nursing skills in diverse fields.
• Joshua Condado: Investing RN addresses a critical gap in nursing education by focusing on financial literacy and investment strategies tailored specifically for healthcare workers. Joshua's ability to translate complex financial concepts into accessible, practical advice for his peers demonstrates his commitment to elevating the financial well-being of the nursing community.
• Ellaine Maala: Ellaine is a nurse who helps other nurses with financial education and building wealth, something not taught in nursing school yet so important for nurses to thrive in their careers. She also started the Stock and Scrubs podcast, which is an essential resource for nurses to learn about money and investing. As a host on the Nurse Converse podcast, her financial advice, especially her strategies for planning early retirement through investing, has been incredibly helpful.
• Shenell Thompkins: I'm excited to nominate myself, Nurse Shenell Thompkins, for the Best of Nursing Nurse Podcast Host award. After being part of the pioneering Nurse Converse series, I have created a unique and impactful podcast as a solo endeavor. Despite being only eight episodes in, All One Nurse has already become a vital resource for the nursing community through candid conversations with nurse guest speakers.
  Thanks to the host (and God), the podcast stands out for several reasons:
  • The mission is to bridge the gap between the stethoscope and the soul, returning to the human side of healthcare.
  • Each episode provides valuable insights into the world of nursing, covering essential topics that resonate deeply with new and seasoned nurses and patients.
  • The solo hosting format is personal and relatable, making listeners feel like they’re part of an intimate conversation.
  • All One Nurse doesn’t just inform; it inspires and builds community among its listeners, offering support and solidarity.
  • The commitment to quality and thoughtful content is evident in every episode, reflecting the dedication and passion of the host.
    I, Shenell, embody the spirit of nursing through the podcast by fostering knowledge, connection, compassion, and growth within the community. I would love to be recognized for my outstanding contributions to the field.
• Jason of Nurse To Riches: 

  Jason, from "Nurse To Riches," is a prominent figure on social media, particularly on YouTube, who shares his experiences as a nurse and focuses on providing financial advice to fellow nurses, helping them navigate career choices and maximize their earnings, often emphasizing strategies to achieve financial freedom within the nursing profession. He is often accompanied by his wife Monica on their platform.

  Jason's content primarily centers around helping nurses understand their salary potential, negotiate better contracts, and make informed decisions about where to work to optimize their financial situation.

  He runs the "Nurse To Riches" channel, likely on YouTube, where he shares insights, salary data, and strategies to build wealth as a nurse. Jason often features his wife Monica on the platform, who also contributes to the content and perspective.

Nurse Scrubs

• Moxie Scrubs: I am thrilled to nominate Moxie Scrubs for the Best Nurse Scrubs category. Founded by nurse Alicia Tulsee, Moxie Scrubs addresses the common challenges nurses face with uncomfortable and ill-fitting work attire. By collaborating directly with nurses, Moxie has developed scrubs that prioritize comfort, style, and functionality, ensuring that healthcare professionals feel confident and capable on the job. Features inclusive sizing and innovative designs. Uses high-performance materials for enhanced mobility and durability. Aims to empower nurses through thoughtfully designed scrubs, elevating the nursing profession.

• Wink Scrubs: For years, Wink Scrubs has been a leader in providing high-quality, customized scrubs and workwear solutions for various industries, consistently exceeding expectations through innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. Prioritizes body inclusivity with a wide range of sizes for all body types. Focuses on sustainability by using eco-friendly materials. Offers durable scrubs designed for long-lasting performance. Combines functionality with modern, stylish designs, fostering confidence and professionalism.
• ODAAT: ODAAT, standing for "One Day at a Time," reflects the resilience and dedication of healthcare professionals. Designed with a deep understanding of the unique needs of nurses and medical professionals. Provides practical, innovative scrubs that support healthcare workers in their demanding roles.
• OliveUs Scrubs
  Founded by nurse Kathryn, OliveUs Scrubs addresses the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Features a unique stethoscope holder for safety and accessibility during critical moments.

• KH Scrub Shop LLC: KH Scrub Shop LLC offers a diverse range of scrubs that combine comfort, durability, and style.
• Soleya Scrubs: Nurse-owned & Made in the USA. Beth Guynes, BSN, RN was returning to work after several years and was frustrated that scrubs hadn't improved at all. She started Soleya Scrubs to combine the comfort of brands like Vuori and Lululemon with the style of brands like Reformation and Aritzia. Made in the USA, this Seattle based brand makes scrubs so soft and comfy that nurses have been spotted wearing them to the gym, yoga studio, even out on date night. Known by many as the "Vuori of Scrubs", Beth sees Soleya not as just medical apparel, but as a form of self-care. She wants her fellow nurses to be able to wear scrubs that are professional, comfy, relaxing and empowering.
• Zenith Scrubs: Zenith Scrubs is dedicated to providing high-quality, stylish, and functional medical apparel tailored to the needs of healthcare professionals.
• GMA Brand (@nursloveofficial): An influential nurse in the nursing community who started a scrub brand from the ground up.
• Garde Malade Scrubs: Garde Malade Scrubs stands out for its focus on comfort and practicality. Crafted from durable, breathable fabrics for all-day comfort during long shifts. Thoughtfully designed with multiple pockets and tailored fits for efficiency an professionalism. Offers a variety of colors and patterns for self-expression while adhering to professional standards.
• Jaanuu
  Jaanuu is known for its cute designs and vibrant colors, allowing nurses to express their personality while maintaining a professional appearance. Features fashionable yet functional scrubs with multiple pockets and stretchable materials for ease of movement. Embraces size inclusivity with a wide range of sizes to ensure a perfect fit for every nurse.

Nurse Shoes

• STAND+: Designed specifically for healthcare professionals, STAND+ shoes prioritize comfort and support, making them ideal for long shifts. Features an innovative slip-resistant sole for enhanced safety. Stylish design allows nurses to express personal style while maintaining professionalism.
• Uni Shoes: Founded by two nurses, Uni Shoes combines style and functionality to support healthcare professionals during long shifts. Slip-resistant and fluid-repellent materials for safety and practicality. A sleek aesthetic that enables nurses to showcase their unique style.
• Calzuro Shoes: Known for comfort and practicality, Calzuro clogs are perfect for the fast-paced healthcare environment.Made from durable, easy-to-clean rubber with a non-slip sole. Includes massaging bumps for improved circulation. Available in a variety of colors, combining functionality and style.
• Clove Shoes: Designed for healthcare professionals, Clove Shoes offer exceptional comfort and practical features. Double cushioning and heel pads for long-lasting comfort during extended shifts. Slip-resistant and easy-to-clean materials for practicality. Stylish design combines the look of running shoes with functionality, making them a fashionable yet reliable choice.

Nurse Technology

• Humla Health: Their streamlined, tech-driven platform enables healthcare facilities to quickly fill open shifts with credentialed W-2 nurses, significantly enhancing patient safety and reducing staff burnout without incurring agency costs. Founded by nurses who have firsthand experience with staffing shortages and burnout, Humla Health is dedicated to creating a sustainable staffing solution that empowers both healthcare professionals and facilities to manage their workforce effectively.
• CLARA: I am proud to nominate CLARA for its innovative approach to enhancing hospital operations and patient safety. This cutting-edge platform was developed to address critical navigation and communication challenges within healthcare facilities, ensuring that teams and equipment can reach patients quickly and efficiently. By leveraging precision mapping and real-time data, CLARA empowers healthcare professionals to provide timely care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and creating a safer, smarter hospital environment.
• NurseBrain Synapse: NurseBrain Synapse is “the first and only portable nurse workflow app helping nurses efficiently manage their workload and reduce burnout!” (https://nursebrain.com/). NurseBrain is seeking to reduce nursing burnout by decreasing documentation burdens, providing excellent care through the reduction of medical errors from evidence-based communication frameworks, and collaborating securely with a HIPAA-compliant system.
• Adni App: Adni is the first all-in-one app for nurses, by nurses! On Adni, nurses can buy gear, find jobs, access resources, trade advice, store credentials, and more! Over 50,000 nurses use Adni every month to manage their professional lives and access the support we need to excel!
• Nurse Disrupted: This innovative virtual nursing platform enhances patient care by allowing bedside nurses to connect seamlessly with virtual nurses, effectively reducing administrative burdens and improving workflow efficiency.
• DreamCloud Psychiatry: I developed this app for my private practice so that patients can easily communicate with their provider and support team 24 hours a day, as well as access important patient education and resources helpful for managing their care. It includes a built-in refill request system and a direct link to our telemedicine portal. It is fully HIPAA-compliant, with all data encrypted and stored on US-based AWS servers, and integrates compliant technologies including user-friendly Intercom and Mailgun. It is available on iOS and Android. First, our small, mighty, and diverse team identified the problems that patients were experiencing when accessing care. Then we brainstormed ideas on how to improve these barriers. Finally, I worked with a UX designer from Europe and a US developer to make our ideas come to life. We use the app on a daily basis when delivering care to our patients.

Nurse Wellness Advocate

• Trina Felber: As a passionate advocate for natural skincare, Trina shares invaluable advice on Instagram, empowering nurses and everyone to prioritize their skin health in a holistic way.
• Kailin Haugh: I know it’s not typical to nominate yourself but I’m doing it because it’s so important to me to help people (nurses/HCP) FEEL well! I am a certified personal trainer and have a fitness coaching business, where I help people not only reach their body goals so they can feel good in their scrubs, but also help them with their mindset, their habits, and their nutrition- all to make sure they feel confident inside and out. I TEACH them how to lead a fit lifestyle, even amidst the craziness of our careers. I have been from hospital to hospital as a traveler, and the problems are always the same: poor coping strategies, lack of sleep, insanely high stress, and no clue of what to do or how to start. I’m here to show that it can be different. We put others first 100% of the time in nursing. It is my passion to put NURSES first and create the space, habits, and foundation to truly feel so good in your skin, feel proud of yourself, look good naked(!), and boost your overall confidence by showing you that your goals are possible and you can REACH them.
• Georgie Villareal (Nurse Georgie): As the CEO of She Can Be Both, she has created a supportive platform that encourages nurses, particularly Latinas, to embrace their multifaceted identities and pursue their passions without guilt or judgment. She is also a huge advocate for fitness and health and I get a lot of advice from her account. Super inspiring stuff!
• Diana Page (Catalyst For Self Care): Diana is all about spreading self-care love and making sure nurses know it's okay to take a break and focus on their mental health. She's also a NP and I hope to be one someday, so I really look forward to her tips.
• Kelsey Rowell (Whole Life RN): Kelsey Rowell, aka @wholelifenurse on Instagram, is a powerhouse nurse who is all about helping other nurses level up their careers by teaching them how to create healthy boundaries, negotiate like a boss, and land their dream jobs. With her no-nonsense approach and killer advice, Kelsey is basically the career coach every stressed-out nurse needs in their corner.
• Tiffany Gibson (New Nurse Academy): Her Instagram is like a goldmine of real talk and practical advice that's got nurses feeling confident AF! She shares a lot of resources on self-actualization, self-esteem, and overcoming burn-out which has been super helpful since we're ALLLL burned out these days. Thank you Tiffany!!!

Nursing School

• Emory School of Nursing: Renowned for its commitment to excellence in nursing education, Emory's program prepares future nurse leaders through a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes clinical skills, research, and compassionate patient care. With a strong focus on innovation and community engagement, the school not only cultivates skilled nurses but also fosters a supportive environment that encourages lifelong learning and professional growth.
• Florida State University College of Nursing: I am proud to nominate the Florida State University College of Nursing for the Best Nursing School award, particularly highlighting their groundbreaking Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program focused on artificial intelligence in healthcare. This innovative program, the first of its kind in the nation, equips future nursing leaders with essential skills to integrate AI technologies into patient care, addressing the evolving challenges in healthcare delivery. With a strong commitment to excellence in nursing education and a focus on preparing graduates for the future of healthcare, FSU College of Nursing is setting a new standard for nursing education and innovation.
• Southern University School of Nursing: Southern University School of Nursing (SUSON) established in 1986 offers four (4) degree programs: the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), the 100% Online RN to BSN, the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a specialty in family health, the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on leadership, and the Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD) with a focus on research. It also houses an Office of Nursing Research, a state-of-the-art Simulation Center and Skills Lab, a Technology and Learning Resource Center, a Nurse Managed Family Health Care Clinic-Women’s, Infants, and Children (WIC) Clinic and the Jag Mobile, an innovative mobile health clinic on wheels. The wheelchair-accessible mobile health clinic is fully equipped with two examination rooms designed to accommodate children, women and adult populations. Each examination room is outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment to allow for telehealth visits. The overarching objective of Jag Mobile is to provide access to culturally sensitive health promotion and disease prevention services to vulnerable medically underserved populations. To date, SUSON has produced over 2,700 BSN graduates and is nationally recognized for being one of the largest producers of African American (AA) nurses in the United States (U.S.) (Diverse Issues in Higher Education, 2023). SUSON has produced 513 family nurse practitioners and 107 doctoral graduates (46 PhD and 61 DNP). For the first time in SUSON’s history, it has been ranked in the top 10% as Best Undergraduate Nursing Program for 2025 (U.S. News & World Report https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/best-9636/overall-rankings). Additionally, SUSON has been ranked #5 in the Top 10 Best HBCU Nursing Program for 2024 (Nurse.org) https://nurse.org/education/hbcu-nursing-programs/#top-10-hbcu-nursing-programs; Top 10 Best Value Nursing Bachelor’s Degree Schools in Louisiana for 2023 (Nursing Degree Search) https://nursingdegreesearch.com/majors/nursing/rankings/best-value/bachelors-degrees/southeast/louisiana/ and The 15 Best HBCU Nursing Programs for 2022 (Top RN to BSN), https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/top-rn-to-bsn-ranks-the-top-15-hbcu-nursing-schools-for-2022-301409159.html M
• University of Michigan School of Nursing: U of M is all about turning nursing students into the best nurse possible. From hands-on clinical experiences to a super supportive community, they make sure every future nurse feels empowered. My Professors have all been amazing!
• University of Washington School of Nursing: With innovative programs, state-of-the-art sim labs, and a focus on global health, UW is where future nurse leaders are made—purple pride all the way! GO HUSKIES!!!!

Nurse Stethoscope

• MDF Instruments: "Amazing cute designs and patterns! Their stethoscopes also feature a patented chestpiece design that allows for exceptional sound quality and versatility, catering to a wide range of patient sizes from infants to adults. With a commitment to durability, comfort, and a Free-Parts-For-Life program, MDF Instruments ensures that nurses have access to reliable tools that enhance their ability to provide high-quality patient care."
• Eko Stethoscope: The EKO CORE 500 Digital Stethoscope is a game-changer, featuring amazing TrueSound technology that amplifies sounds up to 40 times and includes active noise cancellation. This means nurses can hear heart and lung sounds clearly, even in busy environments. Plus, with its built-in ECG capabilities and the ability to connect to the Eko App for real-time data visualization, it’s an essential tool that really enhances patient care.
• Littmann Stethoscope: There's a reason why Littmann has always been popular forever - they are the best!! The quality can't be beat. Every nurse wants a Littmann stethoscope.
• Adscope 603: An excellent choice for ICU nurses because of the sensitive acoustics and it's also more affordable than some other stethoscopes.
• Sprague Rapport Stethoscope from Prestige Medical: I work ER and I use this, it's pretty cheap but gets the job done. I also don't mind if I lose it. It came with a carry case pouch which was a nice touch. I got it on Amazon too.

Travel Nursing Agency

• Host Healthcare: "I can say that Host has made my journey so much easier and more enjoyable. From the moment I connected with my recruiter, I felt supported and valued; they really listen to what I want in a job and work tirelessly to match me with the perfect assignments."
• Trusted Health: "I’ve had a great experience with Trusted Health, where they truly prioritize our needs and well-being. Their user-friendly platform makes finding assignments a breeze, and I love how they provide transparent information about pay and benefits, so I always know what to expect."
• Aya Health: "Aya's travel nursing platform is super user-friendly, allowing me to easily find assignments that fit my lifestyle, and I love how transparent they are about pay and benefits."
• NuWest: "The sense of community among fellow NuWestees is amazing, and it feels great to be part of a team that values professionalism and camaraderie. NuWest makes my travel nursing journey not just successful but genuinely enjoyable!"
• Vivian: "Their platform makes it incredibly easy to browse a wide range of job opportunities from various agencies, all in one place. I love that I can create a single profile and apply to multiple positions without the hassle of filling out endless forms."
• Travel Nurse Across America: "Travel Nurse Across America (TNAA) stands out as an exceptional agency for several reasons, making it 'marriage material' for many travel nurses. Their dedication to honesty and transparency creates a solid foundation of trust, essential for travel nurses navigating various contracts and assignments. TNAA’s comprehensive resources—from full-service support to safety and organization at facilities—ensure that nurses feel valued and secure in their roles. They go beyond basic staffing to provide personal and professional support, showing commitment not just to placement but to each nurse’s long-term success and well-being. This full-spectrum approach makes TNAA a reliable, stable partner for any travel nurse looking for a supportive, long-term agency relationship."

Winners will be announced on @nurse_org Instagram on 1/8/2025! An email will be sent to all finalists and this webpage will be updated with the list of winners.