Meadowlark Hills

Meadowlark Hills nurse receives national award

Mon Oct 5, 08:40 AM

Amanda Zimmerman, a registered nurse and clinical care coordinator with Stolzer House at Meadowlark Hills, is the 2009 recipient of the Joan Anne McHugh Award. This recognition, awarded yearly by the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging, recognizes nurses who provide clinical care while demonstrating leadership and commitment to the field of long-term care nursing. The AAHSA, a national nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C., represents about 5700 not-for-profit senior housing communities such as Meadowlark.

Zimmerman was nominated by fellow staff members, including her mentors. Bonnie McKinsey, nurse practitioner with Meadowlark Medical Professionals, said Zimmerman is truly deserving of the award.

“Amanda, since her arrival at Meadowlark Hills as a licensed practical nurse (LPN), has been internally driven to create home and meaningful life experiences for the residents she serves,” McKinsey said. “Her mission, whether or not she would put it in these words, is to create an atmosphere of enjoyment and fulfillment at the same time, ensuring the multifaceted needs of all residents are not just met, but exceeded.”

Zimmerman has been with Meadowlark Hills for five years. She received her nursing degree from Manhattan Area Technical College in Manhattan, Kan. She currently oversees the skilled nursing care of 33 residents.

“I don’t view what I do on a day-to-day basis as going above and beyond,” Zimmerman said. “For me, I want to know the residents and their families. I’m treating the person and not just the disease or condition.”

The McHugh Award is named after the late Joan Anne McHugh, who was a registered nurse, direct care manager and visionary leader. Through her compassion, knowledge and professionalism, she had a tremendous impact on the geriatric health profession.

Zimmerman will receive the award at the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging meeting and exposition scheduled for Nov. 8 – 11 in Chicago. She also will receive $1,000 to be used for professional development opportunities.