"I wish to extend my sincerest congratulations to Valerie on receiving this very distinguished and well-deserved award," said Daniel P. Walsh, President & CEO, Winthrop-University Hospital.

Each year, Nursing Spectrum magazine sponsors the Nurse of Excellence program to honor nurses from across the country for excellence in six categories including: Advancing and Leading the Profession; Clinical Care; Community Service; Management; Mentoring; and Teaching.

Ms. Terzano was among the 30 finalists for the New York/New Jersey region - which also included Winthrop's Director of Diabetes Education Virginia Peragallo-Dittko, APRN, BC-ADM, MA, CDE, for demonstrating excellence in Community Service. Ms. Terzano was ultimately chosen as the regional winner in the Advancing and Leading the Profession category. She was nominated by Winthrop's outstanding nurse management team for her dedication and commitment to nursing practice. Their submission noted, "As members of Winthrop-University Hospital's nurse management team, our nominee works beside us, not above us. She makes it clear in every forum that we are colleagues. While she is our direct supervisor, she utilizes a participatory leadership style allowing us to take an active role in the decision making process. Our input is greatly valued by her. She works with us and guides us on many important initiatives. She is our coach and mentor."

Ms. Terzano is now a contender for Nursing Spectrum's national awards program, through which she will be considered for national recognition as "Nurse of the Year" in her category this coming fall.

"I am humbled to have been chosen amongst such highly qualified and dedicated professionals. I am so proud of my nursing staff at Winthrop and the way in which our team provides the highest level of patient care," said Ms. Terzano. "It is a great honor to have been recognized by such an outstanding group of nurse managers. There is no place I'd rather be - and no profession I'd rather be in."

Valerie T. Terzano holds a Master of Science degree in Nursing Administration and is certified in Nursing Administration. In addition, she is a member of the American Organization of Nurse Executives and the Greater New York Organization of Nurse Executives.

Ms. Terzano is also a New York State Licensed Massage Therapist. She administers European and Oriental Massage Therapy for medical conditions as well as for relaxation. She is a member of the American Massage Therapy Association and volunteers her time at the Hospital's Community Wellness Education Programs and has presented on the benefits of therapeutic massage.

Winthrop-University Hospital

Founded in 1896 as Long Island's first voluntary hospital, Winthrop-University Hospital is a regional healthcare resource committed to the dignity and well being of every patient. The Hospital employs nearly 1,500 nurses and has over a century of experience providing high quality, comprehensive healthcare services.

For additional information about Winthrop-University Hospital and its world-class programs and services, please call 1-866-WINTHROP.