NCSN Recognition Award
The NCSN Recognition Award is presented at the NASN Annual Conference to honor an NCSN who has promoted certification as well as worked to enhance general competency in school nursing. The NCSN of the Year Award is presented to a nationally certified school nurse who is nominated by a peer or peers. This award recognizes a Nationally Certified School Nurse who has been influential in promoting certification and exceptional competency in the field. Any NCSN can be nominated.
Do you know a deserving school nurse? Are you that deserving school nurse? If so, click here to apply. Applications are due January 15, 2024.
NCSN of the Year 2023
Wendy DeGraffenried, BSN, RN, NCSN, HN-BC
Wendy DeGraffenried has been awarded the National Board for Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN) 2023 NCSN of the Year. This award is given each year to an outstanding NCSN(s) in recognition of efforts to promote national school nurse certification at the national, state, or local level, and enhance competency and expertise among school nurse professionals.
Wendy’s work to develop and present the “New School Nurses’ Orientation” has helped to enhance competency in school nursing skills. Through her work, she has helped to initiate efforts for all school nurses to become NCSNs, elevating their professionalism and practice while positively influencing nursing outcomes in schools across Alaska.
NCSN of the Year 2022
Sophia Hall, CNP, M. Ed., RN, NCSN
Sophia Hall has been awarded the National Board for Certification of School Nurses (NBCSN) 2022 NCSN of the Year. This award is given each year to an outstanding NCSN(s) in recognition of efforts to promote national school nurse certification at the national, state, or local level, and enhance competency and expertise among school nurse professionals.
Sophia’s work includes advocating for school nurses to partner with superintendents and principals. She met with the Vermont Superintendents’ Association and the Vermont Principals’ Association to educate these leaders about school nursing practice. During COVID-19, Sophia advocated for school nurses to join the state’s decision-making tables. As a result, she sat on the Governor’s COVID-19 Task Force.