University Times

Twenty-nine of western Pennsylvania's most outstanding nurses were honored by the School of Nursing during its third annual Cameos of Caring gala Oct. 6.

Nurses were honored for demonstrating excellence in nursing care, serving as effective advocates for patients and their families and acting as role models for the profession.

Nursing Dean Jacqueline Dunbar-Jacob said this year's theme, "The Power of Nursing's Presence," signifies the impact nurses have in the delivery of patient care.

"With a workforce of more than 2.6 million members, registered nurses are the largest segment of the nation's health care professions and are the human link between the health care industry and the patient," said Dunbar-Jacob. "But as demand continues to exceed supply, many hospitals and other health care organizations are beginning to feel the fallout from the nursing shortage. By putting the spotlight on the accomplishments of RNs, Cameos of Caring hopes to demonstrate that nursing offers many exciting career options and countless opportunities for making a difference in the lives of other human beings."

Proceeds from the gala will benefit the Cameos of Caring Scholarship Fund — an endowment that will help RNs advance their education.

Each nurse was presented with a work of art created by Judith Strellec Charlson, a Pitt School of Nursing alumna.