Who We Are
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Nurses Alumni Organization (NAO) was founded in 1927, shortly after the first class graduated from the School of Nursing. The NAO provides the link between the UW–Madison School of Nursing and its alumni; whether they have earned a certificate, a bachelor’s degree, or an advanced degree in nursing. Current and emeriti faculty are also members of the organization.
The purpose of NAO is to promote fellowship and recognition among the alumni of the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing; cooperate with the School in advancing its programs; aid the school in furthering high standards of professional nursing education and practice; and assist students in various ways, including, but not limited to, scholarships and awards recognizing academic achievement and/or financial need.
Join the Board
The NAO board plays a crucial role in our School of Nursing community, and is a great way to stay involved with the School. If you are interesting in learning more about the NAO, or becoming involved with the board, please contact Marlee Stynchula at alumni@son.wisc.edu.
NAO Awards
Each year, the Nurses Alumni Organization (NAO) salutes alumni who have made significant contributions to the nursing profession that shape research, scholarship, education, and practice. Recipients of the Distinguished Achievement Award and the Outstanding Badger Nursing Award exemplify the school’s legacy of excellence in nursing leadership.
The deadline for nominations is September 1 each year. In nominating an individual for this award, please include information on how the nominee demonstrates the characteristics described below. If you have questions, please contact NAO president Madeleine Wentzel at alumni@son.wisc.edu.
DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
The Distinguished Achievement Award is given annually to one University of Wisconsin-Madison graduate who has achieved prominence in their field and made contributions of enduring impact.
Nominees can be considered for recognition in any of the following categories: teaching, scholarship, clinical practice, nursing leadership, nursing research, community service, or alumni participation.
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Characteristics of the Successful Nominee
- demonstrates such integrity, stature, intellect, and renown that the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing will take pride in, and be inspired by, his or her recognition;
- has shown engagement in raising the quality of nursing care through research, scholarship, education, or practice;
- exemplifies the outstanding caliber of alumni associated with a University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing;
- characterizes, in deed or action, the paramount education attained at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing and demonstrates pride, loyalty, and interest in his or her alma mater; and
- demonstrates a continuing interest in the University of Wisconsin–Madison and in the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing.
- Nominees can be considered for recognition in any of the following categories: teaching, scholarship, clinical practice, nursing leadership, nursing research, community service, or alumni participation.
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Past Recipients
- Kathlyn Steele (2016)
- Peggy Zimdars (2015)
- Terry Lennie (2014)
- Maryalice Jordan-Marsh (2011)
- Ceclie Lengascer (2009)
- Kay Lillesand (2006)
- Mary Behrens (2005)
- Irene Sandvold (2004)
- Mary Nies (2003)
- Ona Ziehli Riggin (2002)
- Monica Newton (2001)
- Constance Curran (2000)
- Patricia Lasky (1999)
- Joanne Disch (1998)
- Karen Frick Pridham (1998)
- Rosemary Berchem (1997)
- John Clochesy (1996)
- Kathleen Henderson Poi (1995)
- Sharon VanderZyl (1994)
- Judy Robson (1993)
- Sally Peterson Karioth (1992)
- Ruth Schumacher Lutze (1991)
- Patricia Colligan McNelly (1991)
- Eugenia Schoen (1990)
- Ellen Hooker Zimmermqan (1989)
- Diane Kjervik (1989)
- Gene Cranston Anderson (1988)
- Mitzi Duxbury (1987)
- Barbara Moilien Gruendemann (1986)
- Alice Simonds (1986)
- Florence Gurholt Wetzel (1985)
- Signe Skott Cooper (1984)
OUTSTANDING BADGER NURSING AWARD
The Outstanding Badger Nursing Award is given annually to one University of Wisconsin–Madison graduate who has earned a BS degree in nursing within 10 years as of January 1, 2016.
Nominees may be considered for recognition in any of the following categories: teaching, scholarship, clinical practice, nursing leadership, nursing research, community service, or alumni participation.
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Characteristics of the Successful Nominee
- demonstrates successes in volunteerism and professional life, including impact of these successes);
- exemplifies Badger spirit in terms of energy, creativity, and drive surrounding accomplishments;
- characterizes, in deed or action, the paramount education attained at the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing and demonstrates pride, loyalty, and interest in his or her alma mater;
- and demonstrates a continuing interest in the University of Wisconsin–Madison and in the University of Wisconsin–Madison School of Nursing.
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Past Recipients
- Ashley Rusch (2015)
Donate your nursing pin
The pin of the UW-Madison School of Nursing, designed in 1926, symbolizes a proud tradition of service. Each year, select pins are passed on from a past graduate to a new graduate as a sign of the recipient's achievement and future promise.
