July 23, 2018
Demonstrated nurse leadership and excellence
There is no doubt in my mind that I work with a remarkably distinguished group of nurse leaders who are making a daily difference in the lives of people locally, nationally, and internationally. Recently, several awards, recognitions and appointments have demonstrated individual excellence. I’m so proud and honored to acknowledge these individual accomplishments:
Induction into The Gerontological Society of America
The Gerontological Society of America is the nation’s largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to the field of aging. This year two faculty members – Dr. Nancy Woods, Former School of Nursing Dean, Co-Director of de Tornyay Center for Healthy Aging, and emerita professor and Dr. Tatiana Sadak are being inducted as fellows at The Gerontological Society of America’s annual meeting in November, 2018. Dr. Wood’s impact on women’s health has been felt for decades, resulting in recognition both nationally and internationally. Dr. Sadak’s research focus has been on one of society’s greatest challenges – dementia, and those who care for people with dementia.
Induction into the American Academy of Nursing
Dr. Teresa Ward will be inducted into the American Academy of Nursing at its November 2018 meeting. Dr. Ward is the Co-Director of the Center for Innovation in Sleep Self-Management and is Interim Chair of the Department of Psychosocial and Community Health at UW’s School of Nursing. Her research is focused on obstructive sleep apnea and the design and implementation of interventions to promote sleep health in children and their families.
Appointment to the King County Health Care for the Homeless Network
Recently, Dr. Anita Souza, Clinical Assistant Professor, Psychosocial and Community Health Nurse, was appointed to the King County Health Care for the Homeless Network. Her appointment re-enforces our School’s commitment to help solve real-world healthcare challenges in the Puget Sound community as well as nationally and internationally. Dr. Souza’s research focuses on addressing the needs of older homeless adults with cognitive impairment.
Election to the Washington State Academy of Sciences 2018
Most recently, two of our faculty were elected to the Washington State Academy of Sciences – Dr. Hilaire Thompson and Dr. Cathryn Booth-LaForce. These two faculty members were selected for “their outstanding record of scientific achievement and willingness to work on behalf of the academy in bringing the best available science to bear on issues within the state of Washington.” Hilaire Thompson’s research focuses on both preventing and improving outcomes from traumatic brain injury, with a particular emphasis on older adults. Cathryn Booth-LaForce’s research focuses on the social-emotional development of children, primarily from the perspective of attachment theory.
The work of our faculty is incredibly important to advancing better health care globally and locally. I believe recognition of our faculty’s work enhances our excellent reputation and provides us with tremendous visibility. I am so proud of each of these individuals and challenge all of us to continue to maintain excellence in all we do.
