An SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital medical/surgical and oncology registered nurse was recently recognized by the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh College of Nursing and the College of Nursing Board of Visitors at the annual Nightingale Awards ceremony. Amy Schroeder, RN, was among an elite group of Wisconsin nurses recognized on April 25. She was among four top Wisconsin nurses awarded for their outstanding service. For 30 years, UW Oshkosh has hosted the event to honor individuals who embody the spirit of Florence Nightingale and demonstrate excellence in nursing practice, as well as nurse leaders who work in mid-management or supervisory roles. Schroeder was presented with a Nursing Excellence Award. Schroeder, a charge nurse, is described as going “above and beyond” in every aspect of her care. “…she seamlessly serves as a mentor, teammate, resource, preceptor and charge nurse. Not only does Amy demonstrate leadership within our unit, but system leadership recognizes her as a strong advocate for her colleagues . . .” Patients and their families have expressed their gratitude, recounting instances where her quick response and genuine concern made a significant impact. Bringing over 25 years of nursing experience to her role in acute inpatient care, Amy Schroeder specializes in med/surg/oncology. She excels in clinical care and prioritizes the emotional and spiritual needs of her patients and families. Amy’s compassionate approach has earned her multiple DAISY Award nominations and patient compliments for her attentive care. As a cancer survivor herself, she empathizes deeply with oncology patients. Beyond her clinical duties, Amy is actively engaged in nursing leadership, serving on committees and driving system-wide improvements in patient care and nurse well-being. Her dedication to evidence-based practice and advocacy for her colleagues make her a standout nurse and a true asset to her unit and organization. The UWO College of Nursing and its Board of Visitors instituted the Nightingale Awards for Excellence in Nursing Practice in 1993. In 2018, the Nightingale Award for Nurse Leaders was introduced to recognize nurses in mid-level management roles as well. Award recipients receive a scholarship and original commemorative award symbolizing the spirit of Florence Nightingale.
Other SSM Health nurses who were nominated include:
- Sidney Aalsma, Surgery, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital
- Vanessa Arellano, Diabetes Services, Endocrinology, ID Services, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital
- Melissa Bresser, Family Birth Suites, SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital
- Hannah Malson, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital
- Karmen Voigt, Emergency Department, SSM Health Ripon Community Hospital
- Leandra Waldschmidt, Hemodialysis FDL, SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital