Honoring the Heart of Care with Moffitt’s 2025 Nursing Excellence Awards
At Moffitt Cancer Center, nurses are the steady hands and warm hearts that patients and families count on during some of life’s most challenging moments.
Their impact goes far beyond clinical skills; it’s seen in the way they listen, advocate and show up with grace and humanity.
During this year’s Nurses Week celebration, Moffitt recognized the nurses who embody this spirit at the highest level with the Nursing Excellence Awards. With a record-breaking 553 nominations submitted across the cancer center, it’s clear just how deeply our team members and patients value the role of nursing in every corner of care.
This year, we are honored to introduce the Compassion in Action award, which recognizes nurses who provide compassionate care by being truly present and never rushing patients during their most vulnerable moments.
Meet the 2025 Nursing Excellence Award Recipients!
Excellence in Magnetism — Moffitt’s 3 Central Unit
The dedicated team from 3 Central, proudly serves patients with heart and skill.
3 Central was recognized for exemplifying the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Magnet model through their commitment to research, innovation and superior patient outcomes. This forward-thinking unit has supported over 70 clinical trials, directly contributing to multiple U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved treatments, including the first FDA-approved T-cell receptor therapy, Tecelra and lifileucel for melanoma.
Justin Therrien is shaping the future of oncology nursing through education and mentorship.
Excellence in Nursing Education — Justin Therrien, BSN, RN, OCN
Therrien is a passionate and forward-thinking educator whose dedication helps shape the next generation of oncology nurses. From modernizing the Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy Workshop to mentoring nurses in high-acuity research settings, he blends clinical expertise with empathy and approachability.
Sheila Ferrall leads with vision and heart, empowering teams to deliver exceptional care.
Excellence in Nursing Management — Sheila Ferrall, MS, RN, AOCN
Ferrall is a leader who leads with her heart. Known for her compassion and commitment to both patients and team members, Ferrall has created a culture of trust, mentorship and resilience. She brings authenticity and emotional intelligence to every interaction, cultivating an environment where people feel safe, valued and empowered to grow.
Recognized for her deep compassion and commitment, Kate Kverneland brings comfort and dignity to every patient.
Excellence in Patient-Centered Care – Kate Kverneland, BSN, RN, CCRN
When a young patient in the ICU expressed his final wish to marry his partner, Kverneland didn’t hesitate to make it happen. She helped organize a heartfelt ceremony at his bedside — complete with music, flowers and a special cake. Her actions brought comfort, love and dignity to a patient in his final days, exemplifying the true meaning of patient-centered care.
Outstanding Preceptor — Marc Chavez, BSN, RN
Marc Chavez fosters a supportive learning environment where clinical skills and critical thinking thrive.
Chavez helps prepare the next generation of nurses with confidence, competence and compassion. As a preceptor, he goes beyond teaching clinical skills and nurtures critical thinking, promotes professional growth and fosters an atmosphere of safety and learning.
Jacqueline Healey empowers patients through trust, education and support in clinical research.
Excellence in a Unique Nursing Role – Jacqueline Healey, RN, OCN
Healey has spent the last 20 years in clinical research nursing, and while her title may not reflect it, her role is truly one of a kind. Supporting advanced practice professionals in the Clinical Research Unit, she clears patients for treatment, provides education and helps manage symptoms, all while forming deep relationships with the people she serves.
Compassion in Action – Natasha Singh, MSN, RN
Natasha Singh brings comfort and meaningful connection to every patient she serves.
Singh’s story speaks for itself. When a young patient she’d known for years was hospitalized with a terminal prognosis, she didn’t just offer support, she brought light, love and unforgettable memories into his final days.
Caring Story – Kaitlyn Sanchez, BSN, RN
Kaitlyn Sanchez helps patients feel seen, heard and supported.
When a patient remained on Sanchez’s unit for more than two months, the two formed a powerful bond. Through laughter and tears, she supported him through the ups and downs of his treatment. Her ability to connect on a personal level made all the difference.
Congratulations to all the winners! Your impact is immeasurable, and your work is at the heart of everything we do at Moffitt.
