The DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award was created to recognize those nurses who have devoted their life's work to the compassionate care of others. Recipients of this award are nominated for their dedication to nursing through active mentoring, role modeling, advocating for their patients, and promoting the positive image of nursing. They serve as a beacon of inspiration to those at all stages of their career and in the various and important roles of nursing.

The recipient of the DAISY Lifetime Achievement Award at Clifton Springs Hospital and Clinic is Donna Smith. Donna is a dedicated nurse who has spent more than 40 years of her career at Clifton Springs Hospital. She has practiced at the bedside, has served as a Nurse Manager, rose to the occasion as the CNO, and is currently our VP of Operations. She brings with her, through all of these roles, her kindness, compassion, and empathy for her patients and for the team. She has led nursing teams as well as the nursing support teams that she leads today. Donna is an inspiration to so many nurses and nursing support staff. She has changed lives and influenced generations of healthcare staff throughout her tenure.

There is no one more deserving of this award than Donna Smith. Although I wish her the best in her new journey, we will selfishly miss her presence on the Clifton campus each and every day. Donna is a nurse’s nurse and a great leader. Thank you so much for everything that you have accomplished and all that you have done for patients and healthcare staff throughout your wonderful career!