The eleventh annual Rose Black Nursing Excellence Awards at Central Vermont Medical Center were presented to three outstanding women who provide their patients with superior and compassionate nursing care. Dr. Percy Black, Rose Black’s son, welcomed everyone and gave thanks to today’s award recipients and all of the nurses at CVMC, on behalf of his mother and the Black family.
Brenda Dufresne-Benda, RN, CAPA/CPAN works in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) in Ambulatory Care where she specializes in perianestheia nursing. She is instrumental in ensuring the department maintains high standards of patient care. Brenda is an expert in her field as well as a caring individual. Karin Morrow RN, BSN, MSA Director Ambulatory Nursing Services lauded Brenda with these words, “Brenda defines encouragement. Because of Brenda’s support, staff wants to improve both themselves and patient and workflow processes. The patients, staff and unit itself, benefit on a daily basis from Brenda’s support and encouragement.”
Tara Starzec, Director of Nursing Services at Woodridge Rehabilitation and Nursing stated that “Ruth Hogan, RN possesses all of the qualities deserving of a nursing excellence award. She is kind and compassionate, always seeing the bright side of negative behaviors, and always respectful. She knows her residents well and is prompt to report any concerns.” Ruth responded “Nursing improves me as a person. It is very rewarding to work to meet the needs of the individuals who live with us.”
At Waterbury Medical Associates Dixie Martin, LPN is a twenty-six year veteran who can troubleshoot and solve any situation. When Hurricane Irene left the offices flooded and unusable, from day one Dixie strapped on her hip waders and came to the rescue. She provided leadership and reassurance to the entire staff and patient base as they transitioned to temporary offices. Dixie made sure that the most vulnerable population was protected and attend to. At one point staff was working in three different locations and Dixie was the thread that held them together.
Waterbury Medical Director, Bill Cove presented Dixie with her award. “Dixie is incredibly respected by patients. Office practice has changed tremendously over the last decade and a half and she has done well as our administrator. Everybody in Waterbury knows and loves Dixie,” he concluded.