Seven nurses at Children's Hospital New Orleans were recognized at a statewide awards ceremony hosted by the Great 100 Nurses Foundation. Laurie Finger, Elena Vidrine, Valerie Parker, Gwenn Marelo, Kristin Broussard, Kimberly Arceneaux, and Charlene Hammond were among the 100 honorees and were celebrated for their concern for humanity, their contributions to the profession of nursing, and their mentoring of others.
“We are thrilled that so many of our nursing staff have received this special award,” said Lindsey Casey, RN, senior vice president and chief nursing officer. “Their compassion and expertise truly make a difference in the lives of our patients and their families.”
The Great 100 Nurses Foundation started 36 years ago in New Orleans. Since then, it has grown to other states, including North Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. The foundation receives nominations from individuals and hospitals from across the state and determines the “nurse heroes” they will honor.
“Celebrating nurses across a variety of departments is exciting because it shows the importance of courage and stamina at Children’s Hospital New Orleans,” continued Casey. “Our nurses are always willing to go the extra mile, and we are so happy they are being recognized for their exceptional patient care.”
The seven Children’s Hospital nurses who were honored in 2022 represent a diversity of hospital departments. Finger serves as a provider in endocrinology; Broussard and Parker work in ambulatory care under Marelo’s leadership; Arceneaux and Hammond serve in inpatient nursing capacities; and Vidrine leads nursing professional development.