Four UF College of Nursing faculty members were honored with Florida Nurses Association Icon Awards during the FNA Annual Membership Assembly on Nov. 21.
The awards recognized excellence in various aspects of nursing practice, research and education, celebrating the contributions made to the profession.
This marks the second consecutive year that four UF Nursing faculty members received Icon Awards. Each recipient was nominated by a fellow colleague.
Raga Bjarnadottir – Nursing Innovation and Creativity Icon Award
Raga Bjarnadottir, PhD, MPH, assistant professor, was awarded the Nursing Innovation and Creativity Icon Award for her work in research and academic practices. Bjarnadottir has earned a reputation for her creative approach to integrating new technologies and methodologies into nursing education and practice.
Bjarnadottir’s talent in applying the basic concepts of nursing informatics to clinical scenarios that students can grasp has been a source of motivation for many, and that her work has led to improvements in nursing practice and better care for the underserved, according to her nomination packet.
Bryce Catarelli – Nurse Educator Icon Award
Bryce Catarelli, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, clinical assistant professor, received the Nurse Educator Icon Award for outstanding contributions to the education and mentorship of future nurses. Catarelli has made a lasting impact on nursing students through her engaging teaching style, commitment to clinical excellence, and passion for fostering the next generation of nurse leaders.
Catarelli’s nomination noted her warm and inclusive personality inspires others and promotes student scholarship and innovation… She is a wonderful leader and role model for our students, faculty, and staff,” Schofield wrote in her nomination letter.
Lakeshia Cousin – Community Action Icon Award
Lakeshia Cousin, PhD, APRN, AGPCNP-BC, assistant professor, was honored with the Community Action Icon Award, recognizing her efforts in community outreach and health advocacy. Cousin has worked extensively to address health disparities and promote wellness in underserved populations. Her commitment to making health care more accessible and equitable has impacted the communities she serves.
Cousin’s work with the community is not only strengthening trust between the community and healthcare systems, but also saving lives, improving care, and enhancing the quality of life for women at high risk of death from breast cancer, according to her nomination.
Tamara Macieira – Nursing Research Icon Award
Tamara Macieira, PhD, assistant professor, received the Nursing Research Icon Award in recognition of her exemplary contributions to nursing research. Macieira’s work focuses on improving nursing practices and patient outcomes through evidence-based research.
In her nomination, it was noted that Macieira’s phenomenal and innovative research leadership and efforts were already transforming nursing. propelling both the nursing field and the college forward, while also fostering a culture of curiosity and rigorous inquiry within the nursing community