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EMU Nursing Grads Honored

HARRISONBURG, Va. — The Virginia Nurses Association cited two Eastern Mennonite University alumnae during its annual "Centennial Celebration" held May 2 in Richmond.

Desiree Brunelle, a 2000 EMU graduate of EMU's RN-BS Adult Degree Completion Program, and Marsha Green, a 1993 alumna, received "Centennial Nurse" awards in recognition of achievements in their profession. The awards seek to honor persons who "reflect the future of nursing."

Ms. Brunelle is clinical coordinator of nursing resources at Winchester (Va.) Medical Center. "Desiree is a role model for new and experienced nurses," the award stated, noting that she "uses her clinical expertise to implement change while honoring the traditions of nursing."

Ms. Green is executive director of Melt-the-Ice, a program based in Harrisonburg and at Augusta Medical Center. She developed the program in 1998 to assist persons struggling with eating disorders. Melt-the-Ice offers early detection services, support groups, referrals and individual case management.

"She has shown amazing tenacity, resilence and optimism in shaping this program," the award noted, "and has done an outstanding job in using available local resources and forming collaborative relationships throughout the process."

"I'm proud of the accomplishments of these young nurses," said Arlene G. Wiens, chair of EMU's nursing department. "They provide excellent examples of the possibilities that are available to nurses to make a difference, wherever they are. I was honored to attend the celebration as their special gifts to nursing and their communities was recognized."