SMH Honours ED Nurse with 2026 Award of Excellence in Nursing
May 15, 2026
As part of National Nursing Week celebrations, Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) proudly recognized Katherine “Kat” Whissell, RN, as the recipient of the 2026 Award of Excellence in Nursing during a special presentation held on Wednesday, May 13, 2026.
Earlier this spring, members of the community were invited to nominate an exceptional nurse by sharing stories and experiences that highlighted compassionate care, professionalism, and dedication. Each submission was thoughtfully reviewed by a selection committee, with Kat chosen as this year’s recipient for her outstanding commitment to patients, colleagues, and the broader community.
Kat is a valued member of SMH’s Emergency Department, serving not only as a Registered Nurse and Triage Nurse, but also as a preceptor, mentor, and mental health champion. Known for consistently going above and beyond, Kat approaches every patient interaction with compassion, empathy, and professionalism.
Throughout her time at SMH, Kat has received countless positive comments from physicians, colleagues, patients, and visitors alike, all recognizing her exceptional care and unwavering dedication to the community she serves.
“Kat has a great attitude, a strong work ethic, and a deep sense of responsibility,” said Laura Breedon, Clinical Manager of the Emergency Department. “She provides the kind of care that she would want for her own loved ones, and I can confidently say I would be honoured to have her as my nurse.”
SMH also extends heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to all nurses nominated for this year’s Award of Excellence in Nursing. The nominations received reflected the extraordinary compassion, skill, and dedication demonstrated by nurses across the organization each and every day.
2026 Nominees
1. Kelsy Ellefsen, RN, Emergency Department
2. Taya DeNeef, RPN, Emergency Department
3. Mitchell Tracey, RPN, Medical/Surgical
4. Julie Bertrand, RN, Emergency Department
5. Kat Whissell, RN, Emergency Department
6. Meghan McGuire, RN, Medical/Surgical
7. Cassandra Britton, RN, Obstetrics
8. Quinn McKitrick, RN, Obstetrics
9. Ashley Hall, RPN, Outpatient
10. Molly Coughlin, RN, Medical/Surgical
11. Julie McConnell, RN, Emergency Department
12. Marcie Dunn, Nurse Practitioner, Outpatient
13. Andrew Merlo, RPN, Emergency Department
At Stevenson Memorial Hospital, we are truly fortunate to have some of the most exceptional nurses caring for our patients and community. During Nursing Week and throughout the year, we celebrate and thank our nursing teams for the incredible difference they make every day.