Introducing New Nursing Grant Honoring Karlene Kerfoot's Legacy in Healthcare Technology

Introduction

In a significant announcement at the American Organization for Nursing Leadership (AONL) Annual Conference in Boston, symplr® unveiled the Karlene Kerfoot Nursing Leadership in Technology Education Grant. This initiative is designed to honor the influential career of the late Karlene Kerfoot, PhD, RN, FAAN, who greatly impacted the intersection of healthcare and technology throughout her 40-year tenure in nursing.

Honoring a Visionary

Karlene Kerfoot’s dedication to nursing and her pioneering efforts in technology transformation have left an indelible mark on the industry. As symplr's Chief Nursing Officer, her leadership in facilitating change has been instrumental in inspiring innovation and empowering nurses in their roles. Her co-founding of AONL's Leadership, Innovation, and Technology Transformation (LITT) initiative in 2022 stands as a testament to her commitment to advancing the nursing profession and improving patient care through technology.

Deborah Zimmerman, AONL Board President and CEO of The DAISY Foundation, remarked on Kerfoot’s impact, stating, "Karlene's influence is immeasurable—her vision, humor, humility, compassion, and advocacy changed nursing." This acknowledgment reflects the profound respect and admiration held for Kerfoot among her peers and the healthcare community.

The Purpose of the Grant

The Karlene Kerfoot Nursing Leadership in Technology Education Grant aims to recognize and reward nursing leaders who have made pioneering contributions in the realm of healthcare technology. By focusing on innovation and leadership, the grant seeks to acknowledge those who are effecting positive change and improving patient outcomes through technology.

Applications for the grant will be open from June 1 to September 1, 2025, inviting nominations through daisyfoundation.org/karlene-kerfoot-grant. This initiative not only celebrates Kerfoot’s legacy but also strives to foster a new generation of nurse leaders who will continue her mission of integrating technology into nursing practice.

Innovations on Showcase

Alongside the announcement of the grant, symplr showcased its latest technological advancements at the AONL conference, including symplrAI for Workforce and the newly launched symplr Operations Platform. These innovations aim to alleviate the administrative burdens faced by nurses, allowing them to dedicate more time to patient care. The emphasis on technological solutions demonstrates symplr’s commitment to supporting the nursing workforce in their vital roles within healthcare systems.

A Lasting Legacy

Karlene Kerfoot’s legacy as a mentor, friend, and advocate for both nurses and patients is deeply honored through this educational grant. Susan Grant, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, FAAN, Chief Clinical Officer of symplr, highlights Kerfoot's unwavering focus on the essential human connection in healthcare. By recognizing her contributions, symplr hopes to inspire current and future nurses to carry forward her vision of compassionate care integrated with innovative technology.

In conclusion, the Karlene Kerfoot Nursing Leadership in Technology Education Grant opens a vital channel for recognizing and enhancing leadership within the nursing community. It serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that passionate individuals like Kerfoot can have on the future of healthcare, illustrating the importance of continuing to champion innovation and support the evolution of nursing practice in the age of technology.

For more information on symplr's initiatives and how their solutions support the nursing workforce, visit symplr.com.