Fox Cities News

Heather Evenson and Renee Weier from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (UWO) have been recognized with the College of Nursing 2025 Nightingale Nursing Excellence Award. Additionally, Erin Barden, another alumna from UWO, received the Nurse Leader Award. These awards acknowledge registered nurses in Wisconsin for their clinical nursing practice excellence and leadership.

Heather Evenson, an alumna of UWO and a registered nurse at SSM Health’s St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, received her award for her 25 years of dedication to improving patient experiences. Indira Husic, a peer and nominator, commended Evenson for her efforts beyond typical standards, emphasizing her personalized approach to patient care and her extensive volunteer work in the community.

Lois Kuehl, though absent from the ceremony, was also honored with a Nursing Excellence Award. She has a long-standing career of 43 years in nursing and is a lead at ThedaCare’s Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education clinic. Laura Seefeld, Kuehl's primary nominator, highlighted her patient-first approach and her respect and admiration in the medical community.

Renee Weier, another award recipient, is known for her depth of experience and adaptability in various nursing settings. Her supervisor, Jennifer Bunker, described Weier as a well-rounded nurse dedicated to excellence and leadership. Weier's role as a clinical instructor and her commitment to challenging and inspiring nursing students were also acknowledged.

The 2025 Nightingale Nurse Leader Award was presented to Erin Barden. A resident of Waupaca and perioperative manager at ThedaCare Waupaca, Barden earned her BSN from UW-Oshkosh. Meghan Ruffalo, RN team leader, nominated Barden, stating that her leadership has improved team dynamics, staff retention, and patient outcomes, contributing to a work environment characterized by high standards and accountability.