San Diego Padres Nurse Night 2025 Recap

Danielle Cruz

"I would like to nominate Danielle Cruz for Nurse Appreciation Night in recognition of her dedication and leadership. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, she was one of only two nurses who courageously volunteered to work on the COVID unit, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to patient care. As a dedicated peri-anesthesia nurse, she is passionate about staying up to date with the latest evidence-based practices to ensure the highest level of patient safety. She also loves to precept new nurses and nursing students, sharing her knowledge and experience to help shape the next generation of nurses. She consistently leads by example, always willing to support her colleagues and take on leadership roles when needed to strengthen her organization. Her dedication and passion make her a truly deserving nominee."

Anne Laymon

"Anne Laymon is an exceptional nurse leader whose dedication to student health and wellness has left an indelible impact on the San Marcos Unified School District (SMUSD) and beyond. With over 27 years of nursing experience, Anne has served in various capacities, from neonatal and cardiac care to her current role leading school health initiatives. Most recently, she earned her administrative credential, expanding her ability to lead and advocate for student health on a broader scale. 

As a school nurse, Anne has been a pillar of support for students facing immense challenges. One such student, a foster youth who had been moved through multiple placements and schools, arrived at Mission Hills High School filled with anger and distrust. Through consistent, compassionate care, Anne became a trusted figure in the student’s life. She provided not only medical support but also guidance on hygiene, obesity, and diabetes management. When the student was ready to graduate, Anne ensured she had a prom dress and a graduation outfit, standing by her side to celebrate her achievement. Anne’s keen clinical expertise and deep empathy have also been lifesaving. When a student arrived at the health office with stomach pain and a rapid heart rate, Anne quickly recognized that the underlying issue was a mental health crisis. Through her swift action and collaboration with the school social worker, the student received immediate intervention and shared their struggles with suicidal ideation—trusting Anne to help them through their darkest moment. 

Beyond individual student care, Anne has been a champion of campus-wide health and safety. She played a pivotal role in making Mission Hills High School the first high school in San Diego County to receive the Project ADAM Heart Safe School designation, ensuring life-saving protocols and AEDs were in place to prevent sudden cardiac deaths on campus. Her leadership in this initiative earned recognition from Rady Children’s Hospital and strengthened emergency preparedness in local schools. 

Anne Laymon exemplifies the heart and dedication of a true nursing hero. Her impact is felt in the lives of the students she has uplifted, the safety initiatives she has implemented, and the future she is shaping through her leadership in school health services. It is with great admiration that we nominate Anne Laymon for recognition by the San Diego Padres, honoring her unwavering commitment to student health and well-being."

Nadine Trassare

"I am thrilled to nominate Trassare Nadine for this recognition. As the organizer of Blended and Blessed San Diego, Nadine and her husband are making a profound impact by bringing blended families together—an invaluable resource, especially for the many families navigating similar challenges within our community.

From the moment I started working with Nadine, I was struck by her warmth and understanding. She embodies the qualities of an exceptional coworker and an inspiring individual. Always approachable, she creates a supportive environment where colleagues can share their concerns and find encouragement. Nadine has a natural ability to uplift those around her, affirming her role not only as a remarkable nurse but also as a trusted ally.

As a dedicated school nurse with the San Diego Unified School District, Nadine consistently demonstrates kindness and compassion, providing comfort not only to our students but also to their guardians. Her commitment to the well-being of our community sets a shining example of what it means to be an advocate for our children. Together, we are building a brighter future for our students, and Nadine is at the heart of that mission.

I wholeheartedly believe that Trassare Nadine deserves this nomination, as her contributions are truly transformative and deeply appreciated."

Katie Elmore

"I am wholeheartedly thrilled to nominate my daughter and my hero, Katie Elmore, for this recognition. She has wanted to be a nurse her entire life, and it has been an honor for me to watch her achieve her dreams. She started out as an oncology nurse and has always been an inspiring individual. Even while facing cancer herself and going through multiple surgeries, she remained uplifting, strong, and courageous. A true warrior. Always approachable, she creates a supportive environment where patients can share their concerns and find encouragement. Katie consistently demonstrates kindness and compassion, providing comfort to all her patients. Her commitment and selflessness to the well-being of all set a shining example of what it means to be a nurse. I wholeheartedly believe that Katie Elmore deserves this nomination, as her contributions are truly transformative and deeply appreciated."

Kimberlee Fontanilla 

"Kimberlee Fontanilla is a patient, selfless, and loving nurse who works tirelessly to help her patients and her fellow nurses. There is no one more deserving of a nomination."