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Recently the American Association of Colleges of Nursing bestowed the Sister Bernadette Armiger Award on professor and chair of the School of Nursing, Jean Bartels.
“I was both honored and very humbled to be chosen as the recipient of the Sister Bernadette Armiger Award winner,” said Bartels.
“This was especially meaningful as the award was presented at the American Association of Colleges of Nursing’s 40th anniversary celebration.”
Bartels, with over 20 years active in the AACN, has a history of leadership in the organization, including being a member on the Board of Directors for two consecutive terms from 1995 until 1999, a member of the Executive Committee from 1999-2006 and president from 2004-2006.
For Bartels, however, being a part of the AACN is not simply about being on task forces and attending meetings; it’s about living her life to promote the professional career of nursing.
“I have to admit that when I receive honors such as this, I tend to be very surprised,” said Bartels. “I’ve lived my life and participated in my professional career with the notion that my work is meaningful and important, and certainly not beyond what should be expected of anyone who really cares about what they do.”
Senior nursing student, Lauren Howard, said that Bartels’ award is simply a testament to the quality of faculty in the School of Nursing at Georgia Southern.
“It just goes to show how great our professors are and that the people teaching us how be in nursing really care about what they’re doing,” said Howard.
“I have always hoped that I was a good role model and mentor for students,” said Bartels, “particularly those who have chosen to devote their life to the profession I love.”
According to Bartels, the award is a reflection of the quality of people she works with.
“To have my contributions recognized in this way is meaningful because I believe that my work is but a reflection of all those who work at my side.”
For Bartels, it is her passion for nursing and desire to make a difference have driven her throughout her career.
“I have truly enjoyed every role I have had in nursing and am so very humbled to have made a difference in the lives of those for whom I have cared for in each role,” said Bartels.
“It is a wonderful feeling to know that your work has value, makes a difference in people's lives, and results in social change that is meaningful.”
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