Dr. Kristy Patrick-Lewis Receives DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators
May 7, 2026
The Loewenberg College of Nursing proudly recognizes Dr. Kristy Patrick-Lewis, Clinical Assistant Professor, as a recipient of the prestigious DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators, awarded on April 27, 2026.
The DAISY Award for Nursing Faculty was first introduced in 2010 by The DAISY Foundation, inspired by the understanding that exceptional nurses are shaped by exceptional educators. Since then, more than 500 nursing schools have adopted the program, now known as the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators, to recognize those who inspire and prepare the next generation of nurses.
Dr. Patrick-Lewis was honored for her unwavering commitment to student success, innovative teaching approaches, and compassionate mentorship, qualities consistently highlighted by both students and colleagues. In nomination submissions, students shared how she “made herself very available and helped as much as possible,” while ensuring they fully understood challenging concepts such as ATI testing. Others emphasized that she “goes above and beyond for each student and deeply cares for their success,” describing her as personable, supportive, and impactful in every interaction.
Faculty colleagues further recognized her forward-thinking approach to nursing education, citing initiatives such as Shot of Knowledge, short, focused 2-5 minute instructional videos, and Nursing MINDSET, which integrates key areas like Pathophysiology, Fundamentals, and Health Assessment. These efforts create cohesive and accessible learning experiences that bridge content areas and strengthen student outcomes. Her consistent availability and dedication have cultivated an environment where students are actively engaged, both individually and collaboratively.
Reflecting on the recognition, Dr. Patrick-Lewis shared:
“I want to thank my future LCON RN’s and my colleagues for the kind words and daily support during my career journey! You never know who is watching and when you will be acknowledged for your great work.”
Nurse educators play a critical role across the healthcare continuum, equipping students, clinicians, and transitioning professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver compassionate, evidence-based care. As the demands of healthcare continue to evolve and amid ongoing workforce challenges, recognizing educators like Dr. Patrick-Lewis is essential to strengthening the future of nursing.
Her recognition not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores the vital impact of nurse educators in shaping confident, competent professionals who will advance patient care for years to come.