FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Connecticut Department of Public Health
May 9, 2013 Contact: William Gerrish
(860) 509-7270
Award recognizes outstanding nurses and contributions of the nursing profession
Hartford –Lisa A. Davis, MBA, BSN, RN, and Helen Centeno, MSN, RN of the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) have been selected to receive the Annual Nightingale Award for Nursing Excellence. Both nurses were nominated by DPH staff based on criteria that include making a significant impact on the nursing profession while working at DPH, going “beyond the call,” and for being professional role models.
The Nightingale Awards for Excellence in Nursing program was developed by the Visiting Nurse Association of South Central Connecticut to celebrate outstanding nurses and elevate the nursing profession. The goals of the program are to encourage retention, inspire future nurses, focus public attention, and recognize the breadth and scope of nursing practice at the local level.
Lisa Davis has been with the Department of Public Health for the past 18 years, working her way from the front lines to her current position as Deputy Commissioner. In this position, she leads a team dedicated to conducting a statewide health assessment and health improvement plan, the state public health laboratory, and the Office of Health Care Access, among other duties.
Helen Centeno began work for the DPH Facilities License and Inspection Section in 2004. She has served as a nurse inspector in various areas within this section, which regulates hospitals and other health care facilities. Ms. Centeno also serves as the section’s liaison to a project designed to reduce health care acquired infections in the long term care setting.
“Deputy Commissioner Davis and Ms. Centeno have shown extraordinary dedication and commitment in their work,” said DPH Commissioner Dr. Jewel Mullen “They both exemplify the important role nurses play in public health. I congratulate them both for achieving this prestigious recognition, and for their outstanding contributions to the people of Connecticut.”
Ms. Davis and Ms. Centeno will be recognized at the Nightingale Award Ceremony on Thursday, May 9th at the Hartford Marriott Downtown.
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