Some nurses make an impact through a single extraordinary moment. Others shape the entire culture of nursing through their dedication, mentorship, and commitment to excellence every single day. Kathy Stelmack is one of those nurses whose influence is felt far beyond the bedside, strengthening the knowledge, confidence, and practice of every nurse she works with.
Kathy exemplifies the very essence of nursing excellence through her passion for patient care, her commitment to education, and her unwavering dedication to supporting the growth and success of those around her.

Kathy consistently goes above and beyond to support both new and experienced staff. She readily steps in to guide nurses through complex clinical situations, offering clear instruction, reassurance, and hands-on teaching. Her ability to remain calm, supportive, and focused allows staff to feel confident as they develop their skills and clinical judgment. As a Charge Nurse, Kathy plays a vital role in staff education and professional development, including assisting with skills checkoffs, competency validation, and bedside teaching. Her dedication to education ensures that nurses are equipped with the knowledge and confidence needed to provide safe, high-quality care. Through her mentorship, she helps build stronger, more capable teams.

Over the years, Kathy has become a trusted mentor and a go-to resource not only for our unit but across multiple units at Piedmont Columbus Northside. Nurses, leaders, and physicians frequently seek her insight and expertise because of her extensive clinical knowledge and thoughtful approach to problem-solving. Her recommendations are highly valued, and she often draws on her decades of experience to suggest improvements that strengthen nursing practice, refine processes, and streamline workflow for the entire team.

Kathy is also innovative in her approach to nursing practice. She is always thinking of ways to strengthen clinical processes and enhance her team's knowledge and efficiency. Her suggestions often lead to improved workflows that benefit both patients and caregivers.

With nearly 40 years of nursing experience, Kathy continues to embody the values of compassion, excellence, and lifelong learning. She is deeply respected by nurses, physicians, and leaders alike, all of whom trust her judgment and appreciate the wisdom she brings to every situation.

Kathy Stelmack’s lasting impact on patient care, staff development, and nursing practice makes her an exceptional and highly deserving award recipient.