Samaritan Celebrates Nurses Week with Nurse Recognition Awards

Published on: May 13, 2026

Watertown, NY – As part of its National Nurses Week celebration activities, Samaritan Medical Center and its Medical Staff hosted a reception and award presentation on May 7 to recognize a select group of Samaritan nurses who were honored for their outstanding contributions to the organization, its patients, and long-term care residents.

The exclusive event, held at Samaritan Summit Village, recognized the dedication and professionalism of both registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) throughout their careers with Samaritan. Qualified medical providers were invited to nominate nurses based on their outstanding contributions to the professional practice of nursing in the areas of: Excellence in Nursing Practice, Education & Mentorship, Innovation, Leadership, Quality & Safety, Dedication & Service, Patient Advocate, and Rookie of the Year.

Samaritan Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Carman welcomed attendees and opened the evening with remarks of gratitude for the dedication and compassion of the Samaritan’s exceptional nursing staff. Dr. Marylene Duah served as master of ceremonies for the event.

“Throughout every patient experience, our nurses truly embody this year’s Nurses Week theme, ‘Champions of Care,’ through their compassion, expertise, and commitment to those they serve,” said John Green, Samaritan’s Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “Their dedication not only enhances the quality of care we provide, but also creates lasting connections with patients, families, and colleagues that reflect the very best of our organization.”

This annual recognition event is part of Samaritan’s ongoing commitment to honor and support the invaluable work of nursing professionals across the system.

The following individuals were honored in their respective categories:

• Excellence in Nursing Practice (Medical Center):
  • Recipient: Joyce James, RN – 4 Pavilion
  • Nominated by: Dr. Vijesh Patel
• Excellence in Nursing Practice (Long Term Care):
  • Recipient: Melissa Elmer, RN – Samaritan Keep Home
  • Nominated by: Dr. Jeffrey Amidon
• Excellence in Nursing Practice (Clinics):
  • Recipient: Jody Waugh, LPN – Watertown Family Health Center
  • Nominated by: Dr. Caleb Atkins
• Education & Mentorship:
  • Recipient: Jen Castle, RN – Emergency Department
  • Nominated by: Dr. Maja Lundborg-Gray and Dr. Sarah Delaney-Rowland
• Innovation:
  • Recipient: Sara Cummings, RN – Samaritan Orthopedics
  • Nominated by: Dr. Biren Chokshi
• Leadership:
  • Recipient: Ali Bell, LPN – Samaritan Pulmonology
  • Nominated by: Dr. Rory Sears
• Quality and Safety:
  • Recipient: Chris Phinney, RN – Surgical Services, Operating Room
  • Nominated by: Dr. Brian Zafonte
• Dedication & Service:
  • Recipient: Mary Peters, RN – Emergency Dep
  • Nominated by: Dr. Maja Lundborg-Gray and Dr. Sarah Delaney-Rowland
• Patient Advocate:
  • Recipient: Diane Jesmore – Infusion
  • Nominated by: Dr. Marylene Duah
• Rookie of the Year:
  • Recipient: Jessie Smith, RN – Emergency Department
  • Nominated by: Dr. Maja Lundborg-Gray and Dr. Sarah Delaney-Rowland

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