Geisinger School of Nursing honored with ‘Choose Optimism’ award

LEWISTOWN – On May 15, Geisinger School of Nursing received the #ChooseOptimism Award from the Juniata River Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The award is presented to “an organization that has demonstrated a long-term, steadfast belief in the potential of their community to thrive and prosper by investing in its future.”

Geisinger College Associate Dean of Nursing Student Education Rebecca Stoudt, DNP, PhD, CRNA, accepted the award on the school’s behalf, along with Beth Finkbiner, MSN, RN, director of the Geisinger School of Nursing. In addition, representing the long history of nursing education in Lewistown, Stacey Osborne, DNP, RN, vice president and Geisinger Lewistown Hospital chief nursing officer, and AJ Hartsock, associate vice president, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital clinical operations, were also in attendance.

“One critical goal for the School of Nursing is that our students and faculty are part of the very fabric of life in our neighborhoods. We know that better care results from knowing and understanding the people you serve,” Dr. Stoudt said. “That’s why we place great emphasis on our students being visible and active in our community. I am so thrilled and honored that the school received this award — it tells us our plan is working.”

Dr. Stoudt noted that on May 17, the School of Nursing will cut the ribbon on its new building in the heart of Lewistown. “We want that building to be an integral part in community life,” Dr. Stoudt said. “We plan to open the doors and invite people to come in for screenings and health education. We want our neighbors to hear from nursing students, medical students, and residents. We’ll work together as a team, covering everything from rural outreach to managing disease systems focused on value-based care.” 

About Geisinger College of Health Sciences
Geisinger College of Health Sciences is the research and education arm of the Geisinger family. Geisinger is committed to making better health easier for the more than 1 million people it serves. Geisinger is the inaugural member of Risant Health, a nonprofit dedicated to expanding and accelerating the adoption of value-based care. Founded more than 100 years ago by Abigail Geisinger, the system now includes 10 hospital campuses, a health plan with more than half a million members, and the College. The College houses a Research Institute, graduate medical education, and schools of medicine, nursing and graduate education, in addition to faculty and professional development programs. The College is committed to non-discrimination in all employment and educational opportunities. Visit geisinger.edu/gchs.