Moffitt Honors Advanced Practice Professionals Who Make a Difference

Each year, Moffitt Cancer Center honors the exceptional work of its advanced practice professionals (APPs), health care providers who are integral to delivering expert oncology care to patients and their families. This dedicated group includes physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, certified registered nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologist assistants. Together, they bring specialized knowledge, compassion and skill to support Moffitt’s mission.

During the 19th annual Advanced Practice Professionals Recognition Reception, the cancer center introduced a new award, the Dr. Bryan McIver Physician/APP Team of the Year Award. Named in honor of the late Moffitt deputy physician-in-chief, the award recognizes the valuable role of teamwork in the health care system. In addition to this new accolade, Moffitt also presented the APP of the Year and the APP Awards of Excellence.

This year 165 nominations were received from patients, families and team members. The selection committee was comprised of clinical leadership, faculty, administration and past award winners.

Meet this year’s recipients:

2024 Dr. Bryan McIver Physician/APP Team of the Year: Nora Watson and David Joyce, MD

Physician assistant Nora Watson and David Joyce, MD, have been honored as the 2024 recipients of the Dr. Bryan McIver Physician/APP Team of the Year Award. This distinguished recognition celebrates their exceptional dedication and impact to patient care, education and research, all values that align with McIver’s lasting legacy.

McIver was a passionate advocate for advanced practice professionals, emphasizing teamwork as the foundation of great care. This spirit of collaboration is exemplified in the partnership between Watson and Joyce, who work in Moffitt’s Sarcoma Department. Together, they demonstrate a shared commitment to excellence in health care.

For Watson, the recognition is an inspiring experience. “It is a great honor and humbling. I don’t think it has sunk in yet as my world is sarcoma, and to be recognized and represent all of Moffitt is truly mind-blowing! I can’t thank those that took time to nominate our team.”

Joyce reflects on his deeper motivations for pursuing a career in oncology and working alongside APPs like Watson. “Being a follower of Christ, I believe that I have a duty to take care of people stricken with cancer with the talents that He blessed me with.”

His faith and dedication to serving others shine through in his compassionate approach to patient care and teamwork.

As a team, Watson and Joyce embody the ideals of high-quality care that McIver championed. Their collaborative spirit ensures that every patient feels supported and valued, while their focus on continuous improvement enhances outcomes for those they serve.

This award is a testament to the powerful partnership between advanced practice professionals and physicians and their shared role in advancing patient care.

2024 Advanced Practice Professional of the Year: Mark Hanna

Dr. Wade Sexton, left, congratulates APP of the Year Mark Hanna along with Johnson. 

Mark Hanna works in the Anesthesia Department as the supervisor of one of Moffitt’s largest advanced practice professionals groups. For many team members, Hanna is not only a trusted colleague but also someone they would confidently choose to care for their own loved ones. His calm, skilled handling of complex, high-risk cases has earned him the trust and respect of Moffitt’s team members and patients.

Known for his open-mindedness and innovative thinking, Hanna constantly seeks growth opportunities not only for himself but also for those around him.

“Mentorship and professional development are critical to our work and to the care we provide. One of my goals is to foster an environment where APPs feel empowered to grow, learn and support each other,” he said.

Beyond technical skills and professional accomplishments, Hanna’s compassion and respect toward others embody Moffitt’s core values. His leadership style is quiet yet powerful, demonstrating by example what it means to be a dedicated team member.

“This award is a true honor. It reflects not only my commitment and excellence as a provider, but the success of the department as a whole. We all share one common goal, providing our patients with exceptional care,” Hanna said.

Award of Excellence in Clinical Care and Trials:  Edith Abraham

Sexton and Johnson honor Edith Abraham with the Award of Excellence in Clinical Care and Trials.

Nurse practitioner Edith Abraham has been recognized with the Excellence in Clinical Care and Trials Award for her exceptional contributions in Moffitt’s Clinical Research Program. Renowned for her unwavering dedication and compassionate care, Abraham serves as an inspiration to colleagues and patients alike.

She was nominated due to her ability to create a positive and engaging environment. Her colleagues, especially among the clinical research coordinators, praise her for fostering teamwork and mutual support. With meticulous attention to detail and a deep sense of empathy, Abraham’s patient interactions have left an enduring mark on those she cares for and works with.

Reflecting on the honor, Abraham shared, “Every day, I am inspired by the strength of our patients and the commitment of my colleagues, and I am grateful to contribute to the meaningful work we do here. Thank you for this incredible recognition. It fuels my commitment to continue striving for excellence in clinical care.”

Award of Excellence in Innovations in Clinical Care: Jessica Tharp

Sexton and Johnson honor Jessica Tharp with the the Innovations in Clinical Care Award.

Jessica Tharp, an inpatient APP supervisor in the Malignant Hematology Department, has demonstrated extraordinary dedication and creativity, inspiring her peers and patients alike and earning her the Innovations in Clinical Care Award.

Tharp’s journey into health care was sparked by her father, a radiation oncologist, who encouraged her to explore the physician assistant career path. From the start, she was captivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in patients’ lives. Today, Tharp’s passion for patient care and her team’s growth drives her every day.

“My patients continue to inspire me through their resilience and positivity despite all that they are going through,” she said.

As a leader, Tharp is relentless in her pursuit of excellence. Under her guidance, the Malignant Hematology team has tripled in size, a testament to her focus on collaboration and growth.

“I always have at least one goal I am working on, whether it be big or small. I never settle for things as they are and strive to be better each day,” Tharp said.

She credits her team for her success and feels honored to share this recognition.

Award of Excellence in Education: Sandra Bryant

Nurse practitioner Sandra Bryant has been honored with the Award of Excellence in Education for her remarkable impact on the Thoracic Oncology Department at Moffitt. A dedicated mentor, researcher and clinician, Bryant’s influence extends far beyond her daily responsibilities.

Sexton and Johnson honor Sandra Bryant with the Award of Excellence in Education.

Described in nomination letters as “a strong mentor” and “an extraordinary APP,” Bryant is known for her commitment to providing excellent and prompt care to her patients. Her dedication to education is evident not only in her mentorship but also in her significant contributions to clinical research.

Bryant recently co-authored a clinical series in Clinical Lung Cancer on stage 1 small cell carcinoma, one of the largest single-institution studies of this disease ever published. This groundbreaking work highlights her commitment to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes in thoracic oncology.

Award of Excellence in Service and Professionalism: Kathy Tyree

Nurse practitioner Kathy Tyree has been recognized with the Award of Excellence in Service and Professionalism for her exceptional work in the Radiation Oncology Department.

Sexton and Johnson honor Kathy Tyree with the Award of Excellence in Service and Professionalism.

Nomination letters from patients and families highlight Tyree’s profound impact.

One letter expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, “Her expertise and tireless efforts have been the bedrock of my father’s care and recovery.”

Another described her as a “trailblazer in what patient-centered care is all about,” emphasizing how her interactions with patients provide them with clarity, calmness and resolutions during some of their most challenging moments.

Tyree’s dedication and professionalism have made her a trusted advocate for her patients, creating an atmosphere of trust and empathy that supports both healing and hope.