miriam eisenhardt

Despite their many teaching responsibilities, Marjorie Hammer and Miriam Eisenhardt have developed and implemented an innovative curriculum that integrates cultural content throughout the prelicensure ELMSN Program at Samuel Merritt University. Students and faculty read the book, The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down, the story of a Hmong family, the Lees, and their interaction with the American health care system. Together student and faculty explore cultural conflicts. Over 18 months, the ?Spirit? Seminars discuss the effects of language, communication, customs, beliefs, values, spirituality and racial and socioeconomic inequalities in healthcare. Students learn the ways in which patients and nurses come together and talk about health concerns with cultural differences toward the goal of eliminating healthcare disparities?a cultural competency goal consistent with the American Association of Colleges of Nursing and the Institute of Medicine. The Faculty would like to honor their commitment and inspirational influence they have had on students by awarding you the Daisy Faculty Award.