During Edison State Community College’s spring nursing pinning ceremony, the College announced its first recipients of The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurse Educators and The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students. Each honoree received a certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe.
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse Educators honors instructors who demonstrate the attributes of an exemplary educator, outstanding role model, and inspirational influence on their nursing students. Edison State recognized Associate Professor of Nursing Marci Langenkamp with this award.
Langenkamp received nominations from students Crystal Escamilla, Brittany Hicks, Ella Manning, and Carrie Stillgess.
“She has a unique ability to connect with her students, build trust, and foster a positive learning environment,” Escamilla said. “She genuinely cares about our success, both academically and clinically, and it shows in the time and effort she puts into teaching. Her kindness, patience, and dedication have made a significant difference in my nursing journey, and I am truly grateful to have had her as an instructor.”
“She was so genuine in her approach to me as a student, was very caring, and went above and beyond to teach us even after class hours. She encouraged me when I was afraid I wasn’t going to pass,” said Hicks. “All around, she is a wonderful teacher and human being.”
Manning added, “Mrs. Langenkamp was very educational and helpful during hospital clinicals. She was always there to answer any questions I may have had. She is so down to earth and always so supportive. I have never felt more comfortable during clinical.”
“She helped me grow and build confidence as a future registered nurse,” Stillgess said. “I learned so much from her. She is patient and kind and has a great sense of humor.”
Nursing students who exemplify exceptional compassion, advocacy, or leadership may be nominated and recognized with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students. For the spring semester, the College honored Mersedes Beasley with this recognition.
Edison State Instructor of Nursing Deanna Eilerman nominated Beasley for the award, noting Beasley’s perseverance, determination, and positive spirit throughout her educational journey. After experiencing an early setback, Beasley used it as motivation to continue pursuing her dream. She consistently uplifted her fellow students, offering support and encouragement when they needed it most.
“Mersedes is a genuine ray of sunshine whose positivity and perseverance have impacted both her peers and instructors,” Eilerman said. “She exemplifies what it means to overcome adversity with grace and determination. Her hard work, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her goals have led her to this well-earned achievement of graduating with her RN.”
Colleagues, peers, patients, families, and alumni may nominate nursing faculty and nursing students for a DAISY Award. A committee at Edison State then chooses the recipients, which the College presents at the end of each fall and spring semester for students and at the end of each spring semester for faculty.
Learn more about the DAISY Award or nominate an outstanding Edison State nursing faculty or nursing student at www.edisonohio.edu/daisy-award.