By Andrea Hein, communications intern

Cindy Cochran, RN, MSN, instructor in nursing, was formally recognized at the Adjunct Nursing Faculty and DAISY Award Recipient reception. Cochran was the first adjunct recipient of the DAISY Award, which is presented annually in November. The faculty relations committee received nominations from students, faculty and other nurses for this award.

The family of J. Patrick Barnes, who passed away from an immune disease, founded the DAISY Award in November 1999. The acronym “DAISY” stands for Disease Attacking the Immune System. The award was founded in his memory to recognize the positive moments of care and aid provided to Barnes during his hospitalization. The compassion and genuine nature of the nurses who looked after Barnes inspired the family to recognize admirable nurses through this award.

The DAISY Foundation is a non-profit organization created in Barnes’ memory as a way to thank all the encouraging nurses throughout difficult trials in the Barnes family’s life. The foundation also extends a way to recognize nurses all over the world who demonstrate similar qualities. The foundation’s goal is “to ensure that nurses know they are deserving of our society’s profound respect for the education, training, brainpower and skill they put into their work…”

At TCU, nominees for the DAISY award must have met specific criteria set by the faculty relations committee, including employment at TCU in two course sections within the past year, excellence in teaching in the clinical setting, demonstration of personal interest in student learning and demonstration of care and compassion for students.

Jodie Weatherly, RN, MSN, CPN, instructor in nursing,  is a member of the committee and reviewed several nominations. The nomination for Cochran highlighted her adjunct career of 11 years as well as her dedication and knowledge as a clinical instructor. The nomination letter also acknowledged Cochran as a respected member of Harris College by students and other faculty.

“[Cindy] displays positive reinforcement techniques but does not hesitate to set limits and redirect a student who needs further preparation or support; she often provides or guides the student to extra resources as needed,” the nominator said.

DAISY award recipients receive a DAISY lapel pin to wear as well as a hand-made “Healer’s Touch” stone sculpture made in Zimbabwe.

“The DAISY Award acknowledges our appreciation for what adjunct instructors do for Harris College of Nursing, and lets them know they are greatly appreciated,” Weatherly said.