Two SSM Health RNs receive UWO College of Nursing Nightingale Awards honors

Two SSM Health registered nurses were recently recognized by the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh College of Nursing and the College of Nursing Board of Visitors at the annual Nightingale Awards ceremony.

Heather Evenson, RN, and Renee Weier, RN, were among an elite group of Wisconsin nurses recognized on April 10. They were among the top three Wisconsin nurses awarded for their outstanding service.

Nominees and winners – all registered nurses in Wisconsin – were congratulated for their expertise, dedication, and commitment to excellence and inspiration to colleagues.

Heather Evenson

Evenson, of Fond du Lac, is a UWO alumna and is an MSN registered nurse at SSM Health’s St. Agnes Hospital. She has 25 years of expertise and is committed to the next generation of nurses through her work as an educator at Moraine Park Technical College and Marian University. She is noted for improving patient experience.

“Heather goes beyond meeting minimum standards by seeking to understand the unique expectations of each patient and identifying innovative ways to enhance their experience,” according to nominator Indira Husic, who is one of Evenson’s peers. “She actively listens to patients and their families, ensuring their voices are central in developing and managing care plans. She fosters collaboration and creates a supportive environment where patients feel empowered and valued.”

Husic says Evenson takes additional steps to offer personalized education, emotional support and follow-up care, helping families navigate illness with compassion and understanding. She pointed out that Evenson is involved in extensive volunteer work in her community, including volunteering for the Salvation Army and service on a medical flight for the Old Glory Honor Flight, accompanying a veteran to Washington, D.C. She has established four scholarships in support of nursing students. She honors her grandmother, a late co-worker, and a former nursing faculty member, as well as creating her own named scholarship.

“Her clinical expertise as a bedside nurse for 25 years is complemented by her commitment to nurturing the next generation of nurses,” Husic says.

Renee Weier

Jenifer Bunker, Weier’s supervisor, says Weier’s greatest qualities are the depth of experience she brings to the bedside.

“She is a well-rounded nurse, able to adapt to any care setting,” according to Bunker. “Her personal dedication to excellence, innovation and growth is reflected in all she does.”

Bunker says in critical situations, she is quick to take charge and ensure everyone is working as a team in the most effective manner. She says Weier is diligent to “care for the caregivers in providing a debrief session and providing emotional support, building team confidence and resilience.”

Weier has worked in a variety of areas: med/surg, ICU, preop/PACU and emergency department, before her current role as nursing supervisor. Her achievements include leading emergency management, SANE programs and an innovative surge plan when the hospital she was the ER director of, experienced the first COVID-19 patient in the state. She earned her master’s in nursing and added clinical instructor to her roles.

She works with second semester junior students and “considers it a critical last clinical opportunity to challenge and build knowledge in the nursing students,” according to Bunker, “so she takes great ownership in ensuring they are ready for their future careers.”

Nurse Leader Award

The event also featured a Nurse Leaders Award. Several SSM Health nursing leaders were nominated, including Loraine Carley, Emily Kosterman, and Chelsea Rens.

Loraine Carley

Loraine Carley is a respected nursing leader known for her outstanding contributions to patient care and nursing excellence. As the manager of Family Birth Suites at SSM Health St. Agnes Hospital, Carley has shown exceptional leadership and a strong commitment to her profession. With 36 years of nursing experience, she has been instrumental in introducing innovative practices that improve patient outcomes and foster a collaborative, supportive work environment. Carley’s great sense of humor, along with her dedication to efficiency and communication, has earned her the respect of her colleagues, patients and the wider medical community. Carley’s leadership has not only shaped the success of her team but also set a standard for excellence in nursing practice.

Emily Kosterman

Emily Kosterman is the RN manager for the Emergency Room, Cardiopulmonary Services and Cardiac Rehab at SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital. For the past five years, she has navigated her team through numerous transitions and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Known for her motivated mindset, collaborative approach and genuine care for her staff, Kosterman fosters a supportive and open environment. Her dedication to patient care and professional development has significantly contributed to the stability and growth of her department, making her a respected and influential leader.

Chelsea Rens

Chelsea Rens is a dedicated administrative supervisor at SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital with a strong commitment to nursing excellence. Over many years of nursing, Rens has made significant contributions to improving patient care and has honed her resilience in problem-solving. With the additional role of joint coordinator, Rens has leveraged the program to educate and provide resources for total joint replacement patients. She has been instrumental in implementing evidence-based practices, fostering a positive work environment and mentoring new nurses. Ren’s dedication to professional development and her compassionate approaches to patient care are commendable.