Temple Health announced on Mar. 27 that its acute and critical care nurses have received the Circle of Excellence Award from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses for three years in a row. This award is given to up to 25 nurses nationwide each year who demonstrate exceptional contributions to high-level, evidence-based, and transformative practice.
The recognition highlights Temple Health’s ongoing commitment to quality patient care and professional development among its nursing staff. The Circle of Excellence Award often honors those who advance patient-driven excellence, reduce infection rates, and show leadership in the field.
Trauma Clinical Nurse Specialist Richard Arbour, who nominated all three Temple Health awardees, said: “This is a national-level, extremely competitive award. When Temple nurses win three years in a row, that says excellent things about our quality of care. These nurses were honored because of their respective bodies of work and professional commitments. They lead by example, and they put their hearts and souls into their work.”
Chaudron Carter Short, Chief Nurse Executive and Executive Vice President of Temple Health, said: “This remarkable achievement—three consecutive years of national recognition—speaks volumes about the caliber, commitment, and compassion of Temple Health nurses. The Circle of Excellence Award is not only a reflection of individual excellence but a testament to a culture that prioritizes evidence-based practice, continuous learning, and unwavering dedication to patient-centered care.”
The most recent recipient is Cedonnie Curtis for her leadership as Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Emergency Department at TUH-Main Campus before becoming Clinical Coordinator at Temple Women & Families Hospital. Curtis led efforts such as increasing sepsis bundle compliance from 44% to 73%. She said: “In fast-paced, high-acuity environments like TUH-Main Campus’ Emergency Department, compassionate leadership makes all the difference… I’m very open to learning and doing the work…”
Lynne Marie Flynn was recognized posthumously for her mentorship over 16 years at Temple Health across multiple departments until her passing in 2024. Catelin Sayen received recognition for leading initiatives such as reducing hospital-acquired pressure injuries by 74% as Director of Nursing Services for TUH-Main Campus’ Medical Respiratory ICU.
Sayen said: “My favorite part of my job is impacting patients… There should be no barriers to providing the very best care…”
The continued achievements by these nurses underscore an environment focused on professional growth while improving clinical outcomes across Temple Health.
