Linfield University-Good Samaritan School of Nursing announced the winners of their annual DAISY Awards and Staff Awards during a ceremony held at the Portland campus on Monday. The Cathy and Dave Haugeberg School of Nursing Faculty Award was given to Mindy Zeitzer during the university-wide faculty awards celebration in McMinnville, while the student recipient of the DAISY Award will be announced at 3:30 p.m. Saturday during the Senior Awards.
“The School of Nursing faculty and staff have been absolutely tremendous this year,” Dean Paul Smith said. “They have gone above and beyond their call of duty — instilling knowledge, inspiring growth, and fostering an unwavering commitment to the art and science of nursing.”
The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 in memory of J. Patrick Barnes who died (at the age of 33) from complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). His family was very touched by the remarkable compassion and clinical skill demonstrated by the nurses during his illness, so they created DAISY to recognize exceptional nurses everywhere.
Clinical Adjunct DAISY Award: Marla Spadafora, adjunct clinical faculty member
From her citation: “One of the nominees described this individual as ‘enthusiastic, caring, and innovative in her approach to clinical education. Another nominee stated that this person ‘puts her whole heart into all of the students and recognizes each of our strengths and she is willing to take the extra step to meet with us and provide additional supporting, while also giving us the confidence to handle situations ourselves.”
Full-time Faculty DAISY Award: Kiki Fornero, assistant professor
From her citation: “One nominee stated that this faculty member fosters an environment that nurtures learning and growth. And that their encouragement and support extend beyond students, but also to the faculty and adjunct faculty working alongside them while doing so with compassion and empathy.
The School of Nursing Staff Awards were instituted to recognize the outstanding work of staff on the Portland campus and beyond.
“These individuals do an incredible amount of work to support our students and our campus,” Smith said. “They are information technologists, operations, security, student life, simulationists, accountants, counselors, administrative assistants and many more. In many ways, staff are the lifeblood of a university. I am very thankful that we honor our staff on the Portland campus and acknowledge all they do.”
The Leadership Award: Matt Hiller, assistant dean of students and director of student life
From his citation: “This years’ Leadership Award wears many hats at Linfield SON and leads with passion as well as a strong ethical framework. He is always interested in providing excellent service to students and shows leadership and enthusiasm every day to reach SON goals. The recipient is described as committed, persistent, supportive and caring.”
Inspiration Award: Analia Hermosillo, administrative specialist for the School of Nursing
From her citation: This individual is always positive, greets everyone with a smile and is fully committed to the team and to Linfield. As one person stated in their nomination, this person has become a resource that many people go to for a plethora of challenges and she handles all she does with grace and a focus on customer care.
Vision & Mission Award: Tim Helmers, maintenance custodian
From his citation: “This individual was described as a person who is always quick to respond to any request or question that comes their way in a professional and straightforward manner. Another person stated that this individual clearly embodies ‘consistent support’ and cares about doing things the right way.”
Diversity & Inclusion Award: Diana Pacheco, diversity, equity and inclusion program coordinator
From her citation: Our final award recipient has been a fantastic advocate for diverse students the moment she stepped into her role at Linfield. She has collaborated with many student clubs as well as elevate and celebrate our marginalized groups on campus. Lastly, this individual brings a quiet confidence to campus which allows students to feel comfortable coming to her when they need help.
