Nineteen northeast Ohio nurses, known as preceptors, were honored Thursday, April 17, 2025, at Ƶ College of Nursing’s 19th Annual Barbara Donaho Distinguished Leadership in Learning Awards. The honorees represented seven hospitals, clinics, health networks, private medical practices and public health agencies. Nominated by nursing students, this prestigious award recognizes exceptional nurses, physicians and healthcare administrators for volunteering their time to mentor and train Ƶ State’s nursing students in clinical settings.
Preceptors play an essential and deeply influential role in the education and development of future nurses. These experienced, knowledgeable health professionals serve not only as clinical supervisors but as trusted mentors, educators and role models. They are a bridge between classroom theory and real-world nursing practice. In the clinical settings, preceptors are the “go-to” people for nursing students, providing guidance, support and coaching through the complexities of patient care. Their expertise and insight help students translate theoretical knowledge and research findings into effective, compassionate problem-solving in a fast-paced, ever-changing healthcare environment.
Beyond teaching clinical skills, preceptors foster professional growth. They help future nurses build confidence, develop critical thinking and cultivate communication and decision-making skills necessary to thrive in a nursing career. By modeling professional behavior and ethical practice, they also shape the values and standards of the nursing workforce.
“Precepting nursing students is no small task. It’s a tremendous responsibility—one that plays a vital role in shaping the competence, confidence and compassion of our future nurses,” said Chrissy Kauth, Ph.D., RN, associate dean of faculty affairs at Ƶ College of Nursing. “We are truly grateful for the opportunity to acknowledge the profound impact these nursing professionals have on the next generation.”
Guest speaker Faye Gary, EdD, RN, FAAN—The Medical Mutual of Ohio Ƶ W. Clapp Chair & professor of nursing at Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing and university professor, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve—addressed the audience with remarks about what makes an exceptional preceptor.
Gary, a longtime friend of Barbara Donaho, highlighted three key qualities that define excellent preceptors: unwavering commitment to quality care and excellence, exceptional clinical competence combined with strategic leadership skills, and genuine compassion that transforms how they lead and support others. She went on to emphasize that preceptors don't just achieve individual success but create lasting impact by inspiring future generations and strengthening the entire nursing profession.
“What sets preceptors apart is what they do and how they do it. Preceptors lead with empathy. They listen. They understand. Whether comforting a patient or supporting a colleague, their kindness is constant, genuine, and deeply felt. In the preceptor’s world, compassion isn’t just a soft skill; it’s a leadership principle,” said Gary. “We don’t just celebrate their achievements; we celebrate their impact. Because of preceptors, the nursing profession—and all of us—are healthier and better.”
Following Gary’s remarks, recipients received an engraved award as the evening’s Mistress of Ceremonies, Louise Knox, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, professor at Ƶ College of Nursing, read their nominations aloud.
Named after Barbara A. Donaho, a long-time friend and supporter of Ƶ State and the College of Nursing, the award signifies the preceptors’ impact on nursing students and future nurse leaders. The College has recognized more than 400 outstanding preceptors since the awards’ inception.
Preceptors’ willingness to share their time, knowledge and wisdom with nursing students ensures that the next generation of nurses enters the field not only with competence, but with a strong foundation of clinical judgment, compassion and professionalism. Their role in nursing education is not only important—it is indispensable.