Frederick Health Celebrates 2025 Nurses of the Year Honorees

Celebrating the 2025 Nurses of the Year at Frederick Health

Frederick Health recently hosted a ceremony to honor their esteemed Nurses of the Year for 2025, furthering their commitment to recognize exemplary healthcare professionals. Each year, this event highlights the contributions of two outstanding nurses: one who specializes in direct patient care and another who excels in administrative or indirect roles.

This year's winners are Lauren Huzzy, recognized as the Indirect Care Nurse of the Year, and Danielle Fraley, awarded the title of Direct Care Nurse of the Year. Their dedication to nursing and patient care exemplifies the high standards of excellence upheld by Frederick Health.

Meet the Honorees

Lauren Huzzy - Indirect Care Nurse of the Year

Lauren is a vital component of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Nursing Professional Development teams at Frederick Health. Her focus on ensuring positive patient outcomes is evident through her collaborative approach and proactive involvement in leadership roles within various task forces such as those aimed at reducing pressure injuries and central line infections. Her peers and patients alike appreciate her empathetic demeanor and keen focus on safety.

Peggy McNeill, PhD and Director of Nursing Quality and Professional Practice, shared her thoughts on Lauren's contributions: "Lauren is a team player, empathetic, and focused. Her skills and positive attitude have made her a respected member of our team and a favorite among patients."

Danielle Fraley - Direct Care Nurse of the Year

Danielle shines as a charge nurse, demonstrating leadership and excellence across her unit. Her efforts in steering the hospital through crucial accreditation processes, including Magnet redesignation and Joint Commission reviews, highlight her attention to detail and commitment to ongoing improvement in patient care. Danielle’s determination to enhance her skills further led her to enroll in Nurse Practitioner schooling, a testament to her commitment to personal and professional growth.

Emily Delauter, Department Manager, praised Danielle, stating, "She can provide intricate details about every patient and always fosters a supportive environment for her team. Her positivity and leadership continually elevate the care we provide. We are incredibly fortunate to have her on our team."

The Significance of the Awards

The Nurses of the Year recognition not only celebrates individual achievements but also underscores Frederick Health's overall commitment to nursing excellence. For over four decades, the Magnet designation has represented the gold standard in nursing, and Frederick Health is proud to be part of the small percentage of healthcare organizations that have earned this distinction. Having achieved its second consecutive Magnet designation in 2025, Frederick Health stands out among the top hospitals in Maryland and nationwide.

About Frederick Health

Frederick Health is dedicated to serving the healthcare needs of Frederick County, offering a wide range of services through its hospital, medical group, and several outpatient facilities. With a workforce of over 4,000 team members, they are committed to enhancing community well-being through their diverse medical and surgical specialties. The institution's significant contribution to healthcare is recognized throughout the region and is reflected in the continued excellence of its nursing staff.

For further inquiries or interviews with the winners, please reach out to Josh Faust to arrange a discussion.

For more about Frederick Health, visit www.frederickhealth.org.