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BCEN Announces 2026 Distinguished Awards for Emergency Nurses

The Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN), a pivotal organization in nursing specialty certification, has proudly announced the recipients of its 2026 Distinguished Awards. This annual event serves to honor the most exemplary board-certified nurses in emergency contexts, including those specializing in trauma, transport, and burn care. These awards not only highlight clinical excellence and professionalism but also recognize the leadership qualities and innovative spirit these nurses demonstrate to their peers.

The 2026 recipients are:

• - Distinguished CEN Award: Michael Isaacs, based at Salinas Valley Health in Salinas, California, is recognized for his roles as a Nursing Professional Development Specialist in Emergency Services. His dedication to adult and mixed emergency care has set a high standard of practice.

• - Distinguished CPEN Award: Solomiya Veturys, affiliated with Nemours Children's Hospital in Wilmington, Delaware, has been awarded for her exceptional work as a Trauma PI Research Coordinator, focusing on pediatric emergency care.

• - Distinguished TCRN Award: Cassie Herman from Riverside Health in Newport News, Virginia, is awarded for her leadership as a Trauma Program Manager, showcasing excellence in trauma nursing.

• - Distinguished CFRN Award: Christine Muszalski from Boston MedFlight in Bedford, Massachusetts, is recognized for her role as Clinical Orientation Manager/Critical Care Transport Nurse, contributing significantly to flight nursing.

• - Distinguished CBRN Award: Kelly Speer from Vanderbilt Health in Nashville, Tennessee, has earned this accolade for her expertise as a Registered Nurse specializing in burn treatment.

The honorees will receive a Distinguished Award pin and trophy during individual celebrations at their workplaces, which underscores the significance of these achievements.

BCEN’s CEO, Janie Schumaker, emphasized that the recipients exemplify the pinnacle of nursing practice standards. She noted how specialty certification not only validates clinical expertise but also serves as an important mechanism for improving patient safety and outcomes in the fast-paced emergency care environment.

The Importance of Nursing Specialty Certification

Nursing specialty certification stands as a testament to a nurse’s commitment to advancing their skills and ensuring high-quality care. It is a voluntary process that reflects professional accountability and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Research indicates a strong correlation between nursing certifications and improved outcomes for patients, healthcare providers, and the medical institutions they serve.

Currently, nearly 55,000 registered nurses hold various specializations within the BCEN’s accredited programs. Approximately 41,500 of these hold the Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) designation, while others are certified in pediatric emergency care, trauma nursing, flight nursing, and more. These certifications are esteemed within the healthcare community, carrying recognition from the Accreditation Board for Specialty Nursing Certification and acceptance by ANCC Magnet.

Upcoming Opportunities for Recognition

In addition to honoring individual nurses, the BCEN encourages organizations that support nursing professionals in their journey towards specialty certification. From May 15 to June 26, nominations will be open for the National Certification Champion Award. This award recognizes hospitals, trauma programs, flight transport bases, and other health systems dedicated to fostering professional development through certification.

About BCEN

Founded in 1980, the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing serves as a valuable resource in enhancing nursing specialties across emergency care realms. Their dedication has led to the establishment of several unique certification programs aimed at empowering nurses and improving patient care. Through the appointment of over 65,000 credentials, BCEN has affirmed the vital role of specialized training in achieving excellence in nursing practice.

For more information on BCEN and their distinguished awards, visit bcen.org.